The Elephant in the Room: Discreet Activism in Conservative Districts Following the 2016 Presidential Election

• In Event: 15.060 - MTCC Roundtable Session One
  In Roundtable Session: 15.060-1 - Activism and Resistance in Changing Political Contexts

Abstract

This paper considers how local sociopolitical contexts impacted equity-oriented leadership in conservative districts following the 2016 Presidential Election. Drawing from qualitative data collected between December 2016 and May 2017, we analyze the experiences of four aspiring administrators in Republican-leaning districts on the West Coast. Findings revealed that the election’s impact on school climate became the “elephant in the room,” as school administrators often avoided addressing racism, xenophobia, and homophobia that erupted in schools following the election. Instead, teacher-led initiatives sprung up as a form of “discreet activism” to support marginalized students and advance equity. Findings raise questions about leadership preparation in this new sociopolitical era and a need for more research on equity leadership in conservative communities.

Author

• Katherine Rodela, Washington State University