Examining Racial Dimensions of Life Writing Through Diverse Methodologies (Poster 45)

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Biographical and Documentary Research SIG Poster Presentations

Abstract

Drawing from four distinct life writing projects, this panel will present on racial dimensions of life writing research using diverse methodologies. Projects explore testimonio, letter writing, critical friendship, self-study, and family narratives. The contemporary field of life-writing embraces diverse methodologies that reflect creativity and resistance to conventional biography genres. Such alternatives acknowledge the limits of some life writing genres to support the range of ways people story their lives. The panel demonstrates how creative traditions can highlight collectivities and families (rather than individuals), diverse traditions of storying lives rooted in community (rather than academic tradition), and diverse purposes such as healing and questioning (rather than accrual of scholarly knowledge). Cumulatively, the panel centers race/methodology in life writing.

Authors

• Lilly Padia, Erikson Institute

• Ashantie Diaz Johnson, Saint Francis College

• Pamela D'Andrea Martinez, Wellesley College

• María Paula Ghiso, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Reanae McNeal, Oklahoma State University

• Melva R. Grant, Old Dominion University

• Signe E. Kastberg, Purdue University

• Paulette T. Cross, Georgia College

• Lucy E. Bailey, Oklahoma State University