The Role of Performing Arts-based Education in the Development of Antiracist Identities in White Children

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 11:45 am - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Spaces with/in arts based educational research

Abstract

This study seeks to explore how critical performing arts events and activities might assist white children ages 9-12 in the development of an antiracist identity, following six children as they participate in performing arts-based events and activities including a performance of ‘Young John Lewis’ – a world-premiere hip hop musical dramatizing episodes from former congressman Lewis’ life – interviews, and a day-long workshop using drawing, photo elicitation, and ethnopuppetry, a form of ethnotheatre using puppets, to perform dramatizations of modern-day racism and antiracist actions as defined by the participants. These events and activities are seen to have been positive opportunities for explicit racial socialization, critical learning, and self-reflection in a supportive group environment further influenced by family, school, and society.

Author

• Michael Joseph Haverty, Georgia State University