We Are Our Mothers' Gardens: A Liberatory Action Study on the Impact of Intergenerational Messaging on the Lives of Black Girls

• In Event: AERA Graduate Student Research in Progress Roundtable Session One
  In Roundtable Session: Student and Teacher Perspectives on Learning, Well-Being, and Resilience in Schools (Table 14)

Abstract

This pilot study examines the impact ancestral narratives have on the health, well-being, and academic trajectories of Black girls. By unpacking intergenerational stories about food, foodways, and food preparation qualitatively, much can be learned about how Black girls perceive ancestral discourse and how their mental health, self-agency and academics are affected. We Are Our Mothers' Gardens draws attention to the much-needed resources that need to be provided to Black girls as they are an ignored population in the educational and health care institutions and systems, but are a very valuable commodity. Culturally relevant education in the systems that are designated to instill knowledge and values in Black girls is left wanting, and yet, the value in systems that regard their culture is immeasurable. We Are Our Mothers' Gardens is the first to examine the influence of intergenerational narratives about foods and food preparation on the lives of Black girls (6 - 12). It also highlights Black girls' relationships with STEM-related activities, their mothers/other mothers, and discusses how their agency and identity to practice healthy eating, self-care, and mental well-being are introduced and sustained.

Author

• Sonya Brooks, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author