Searching for Racial Literacy: Racial Inequality Sense-Making Among Educators

• In Event: New Conversations on Social Emotional Learning: Racial Literacy, Sex Talk, and Intentional Environments

Abstract

In this pilot study, I explored how educators make sense of racial inequality when talking to students and also in their own lives. Using racial literacy (Guinier, 2004) as a framework for effective teaching, I conducted semi-structured interviews with three educators who discuss topics of racial inequality with students. In addition to lived experience, preliminary findings reveal how intersectionality; negotiating engagement; and students’ own sensemaking of racial inequality are all implicated in how educators make sense of race when engaging with students. Future research directions are discussed. This is part of a larger effort taking a closer look at the implementation of culturally responsive and sustaining teaching practices.

Author

• LAWRENCE LOUIS, Michigan State University