Resisting Our School’s Erasure: An Intergenerational Critical Participatory Action Research Project to Preserve Black Education

• In Event: Research Focus on Black Education Paper Session

Abstract

During the mid-twentieth century, the United States (US) urban landscape changed due to white flight as fair housing and desegregation laws allowed for Blacks to obtain property, better employment, and education. Over the past few decades, there has been a reverse trend of white flight. This urban renaissance, often accompanied by revitalization efforts and increased investments, has contributed to rapid gentrification and displacement of Black individuals and communities. Grounded in critical race theory and intergenerational responsible leadership theory, this paper highlights the experiences of youth and older adults participating in an intergenerational, participatory heritage research, university-school-community partnership project to preserve the history and legacy of a Black urban Philadelphia high school affected by gentrification.

Authors

• Isaiah L. Lassiter, Drexel University

• Karena Alane Escalante, The Education Trust

• Ayana Allen-Handy, Drexel University

• Jahyonna Brown, Drexel University

• Ronald Ray, West Philadelphia High School Alumni Association

• Rana Carter, West Philadelphia High School Alumni Association

• Ann Nettles, West Philadelphia High School Alumni Association

• Michelle Allen, West Philadelphia High School Alumni Association

• Bonnie Poole-Linder

• Saeed Platts, University of Pittsburgh

• Ishmael Burrell

• Jasmine Atwell

• Haley Kowal, Drexel University