"We Gon' Be Alright": Hip-Hop-Based Education and the Freedom School Experience

• In Event: 25.043 - "We Gon' Be Alright": Hip-Hop-Based Education, Knowledge, and Freedom

Abstract

Hip-Hop Based Education (HHBE) is a culturally responsive alternative to traditional educational practices that are devoid of African American and youth culture. This work articulates how a civil rights based educational approach, when combined with a Hip Hop pedagogical approach, can aid children in developing the “capacity to make a demand” (Perlstein, 1990, p. 298) for their educational futures. Utilizing data collected from a Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools® partner, we (1) discuss HHBE as a culturally responsive framework to engage urban youth in their education and community; (2) discuss HHBE as a critical thinking and social activism vehicle for youth to mobilize and find voice; and (3) present the voices of urban youth and parents engaged the program.

Authors

• Kristal Moore Clemons, Florida State University

• Paula Groves Price, Washington State University

• Kawachi Ahmon Clemons, Virginia State University