Civic Engagement, Identity, and Activism: Narratives From Youth of Color in Urban Schools

• In Event: 45.054 - The Politics of School Closures, Gentrification, and Displacement: Examining Resistance and Engagement

Abstract

Youth of color in urban settings draw upon a unique core of experiences within and outside of schools to inform their emerging identities as observers of political processes and to form expectations for positive change in their neighborhoods and communities. This qualitative study focuses on these youths’ perspectives on race, politics, and social justice, attending to how they inform youths’ understandings of local and global issues and guide their actions to effect change. Data analysis revealed four themes: inequality, school leadership and teaching, media, and social disparities. The study has implications for understanding the ways in which youth reconcile their lived realities in different contexts and ideals of civic participation, and the performative nature of citizenship.

Authors

• Vivian L. Gadsden, University of Pennsylvania

• Wintre Foxworth Johnson, University of Virginia

• Min Derry, University of Pennsylvania

• Samiha Rahman

• OreOluwa Badaki, University of Pennsylvania