Truth and Justice: The Impact of Racial Justice Training in Catholic Schools

• In Event: Critical Perspectives on Achievement and Equity in Catholic Schools

Abstract

Racial justice training for K-12 Catholic school faculty presents complex challenges of Catholic culture, beliefs, and practices. This paper reports on results of an ethnographic study of the impact a racial justice professional development for Catholic educators on the facilitators of the program and on the Catholic educators. Existing challenges of declining enrollment, limited resources, and limited training within an organization that has a mission for racial justice present a unique place for racial justice training. This ethnographic study provided a distinct method of narrative and personal story to examine the impact of a racial justice professional development program. The use of ethnographic research and recursive reflective examination offers a vital way to use truth to impact meaningful cultural change.

Authors

• Donna Kiel, DePaul University
  Presenting Author

• Tina Curry, Chicago Public Schools
  Presenting Author