Critical Civic Praxis: Constructing Knowledge and Promoting Social Change Through Hip-Hop

• In Event: Constructing Knowledge and Promoting Social Change: Cutting Edge Issues in Social Justice

Abstract

Since its birth, hip-hop has been seen by some as socially and politically engaged. In recent years, educators/researchers have explored its potential with youth in promoting critical literacy, democratic practice and civic engagement. This presentation offers two perspectives on the possibilities of hip-hop for critical and civic engagement in-/out of the classroom. Examining the understandings and practices of twenty Latina/o youth and two African-American teachers, this paper explores how hip-hop can be a tool to examine positionality, social inequality, and civic action; provides insights into teaching and learning; and compels educators to expand understandings of student identities and experience.

Authors

• Jung E. Kim, Lewis University

• Isaura Betzabe Pulido, Northeastern Illinois University