An Urgent Call to Center an AsianCrit Framework in Chinese Dual-Language Bilingual Education Programs

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Eight
  In Roundtable Session: In Pursuit of Truth: Equitable Spaces in Multilingual Programs (Table 5)

Abstract

In pursuit of truth, our project problematizes neoliberal interests in the U.S. Mandarin/English Dual Language Bilingual Education (DLBE) programs, which emphasize white, English-speakers’ use of Mandarin for economic and political gains. Such interests reify white supremacy and contribute to erasure of Chinese and Chinese American voices, histories, and cultures in curriculum. Existing literature on DLBE contexts examine programs’ success according to students’ academic achievement and biliteracy development, with no attention to cultivation of critical consciousness. We propose Chinese DLBE programs prioritize critical consciousness as a foundational educational goal. In this conceptual paper, we apply the seven tenets of Asian Critical Race Theory to Chinese DLBE contexts to examine equity issues and work towards just and innovative pedagogy.

Authors

• Zhongfeng Tian, Rutgers University - Newark
  Presenting Author

• Joanna W. Wong, California State University - Monterey Bay
  Presenting Author

• Suzanne García, California State University - Monterey Bay
  Presenting Author