The Cultural Roots of Community Organizing for Educational Justice

• In Event: 65.080 - Roundtable Session 24
  In Roundtable Session: 65.080-13 - Organizing for Educational Justice

Abstract

In this paper, we identify and examine some of the key roles that culture plays in community organizing for educational justice. Drawing on data from a multiple case study of education organizing across the country, we analyze four areas of cultural practice: 1) the use of organizing histories and traditions as collective action frames; 2) individual and collective storytelling practices; 3) the development of a sense of “shared fate” among participants; and 4) the use of rituals, celebrations, and symbols. We conclude that deep cultural work may well be necessary for community organizing groups to be effective in increasing equity and justice for their communities in public education.

Authors

• Paul Kuttner, University of Utah

• Mark R. Warren, University of Massachusetts - Boston