A Critical Race Analysis of Chicana/o “Pushout” Youth Reengagement Strategies in West Los Angeles

• In Event: Youth Development in the Classroom

Abstract

Latina/o Critical Race Theory (LatCrt) and Transformational resistance frameworks were used to conceptualize and describe the Chicana/o school disengagement phenomena as, not solely an expression of school failure but a function of colonization within schooling structures. Utilizing a counter-storytelling methodology (Solórzano & Yosso, 2002), this study centers the lived experiences of Chicana/o pushouts’ in West Los Angeles. Chicana/o pushout youth ages 16-24 participating in a progressive grassroots youth organization were interviewed to investigate school disengagement and re-engagement. Findings’ indicated that lack of caring teachers and non-culturally relevant curriculum contributes to school disengagement. Study participants also indicated that Hip Hop arts-based education and grassroots organizing leadership development were effective re-engagement strategies for school re-entry.

Author

• Johnny C. Ramirez, University of California - Los Angeles; Pico Youth & Family Center; Victor Valley College Gear Up