Social Justice Leadership: Theory and Practice

• In Event: Roundtable Session 116
  In Roundtable Session: Social Justice Leadership Roundtable

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates what actions and practices principals undertake to fulfill their commitment to social justice and how they integrate justice and equity into their school culture. Twenty-two principals and VPs from the GTA were interviewed. Study findings unpack social justice leadership by its different components such as leadership traits, personal values, functional practices, and vision and commitment. The common characteristics and values central to social justice leaders are passion, integrity, courage, positive attitude, fairness, respect, and future-orientedness. Core social justice practices include putting students at the centre, positioning as a social justice leader, developing people for social justice, building school climate through social justice, and fostering positive relationships with families and communities.

Author

• Fei Wang, University of Toronto - OISE