Beyond the Official Narrative: Race, Lennox High's Closure, and Voices From the Archives (Poster 7)

• In Event: Invited Division G Vice Presidential Poster Session

Abstract

This poster examines the racial intricacies of Lennox High School's closure in California. While overt reasons, such as segregation and noise pollution, were given, underlying community tensions and economic factors play a crucial role. Anchored in Critical Race Theory and counter-storytelling, this study illuminates the racialized decisions that found Lennox suitable for younger minority children but not high schoolers. Drawing from archival sources and community stories, the research underscores the significance of local contexts, relationships, and power dynamics in perpetuating or challenging systemic racial disparities. The work underscores the need for localized, community-driven approaches to addressing racial injustices in education.

Author

• Edwin Leonidas Rivera Castellanos, University of California - Riverside