Vouchers as Tools of Inequity: A Critical Discourse Analysis

• In Event: Research in Progress Roundtable Session 3
  In Invited Roundtable: School Choice: Equity, Race, and Parental Decision-Making (Table 5)

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the discourse around ESA/Vouchers in Arizona using the lens of critical race theory and racial capitalism. I will build on existing research to critically examine the political and policy discourse of ESA/Vouchers in Arizona. My research question is: What were the public narratives about Arizona's ESAs/Voucher program from 2017 to 2024? The data collected will be archives from the Arizona state legislature committee hearings, floor discussions, and media from AZ Central or other State-based news outlets from 2018 to the end of 2024. Little research currently examines the discourse and narratives that have shaped the ESA policy agenda. This proposed research explores narratives critically and what discourse holds power relative to others.

Author

• Christina Bustos, Arizona State University