Culturally Affirming Education for African American and Hispanic Students: Dispelling Microaggressions in Public Education

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Urban Learning, Teaching, and Research: Poster 1

Abstract

This conceptual paper explores racial microaggressions and their direct and indirect impacts on African American and Hispanic students in urban schools. Microaggressions are pervasive in our society (Sue, et al., 2007), and although often manifested in subtle ways, can be detrimental for their long-term effects on students’ self-concept and racial identity development. Our analysis utilizes extant literature to explore racial microaggressions on a macro level in terms of district/school level microaggressions and teacher level microaggressions. A discussion ensues concerning the impacts of racial microaggressions on African American and Hispanic students. Furthermore, we advocate for a culturally affirming education to empower and engage teachers in the processes of developing cultural competency within our urban schools and communities.

Authors

• Ayana Allen, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Lakia M Scott, Baylor University