Teaching Truth in Hostile Times: Preparing Teachers for the Fight for Ethnic Studies in K–12 Schools

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: La Frontera: Examining Issues of Educational Justice from North to South America

Abstract

Building on the legacy of ethnic studies (ES) in higher education, K–12 ES reflects teachers’ efforts to “unforget histories” of racial injustices and “imagine futures” rooted in liberation. Yet, ES faces growing political backlash, including restrictive legislation and attacks leveraging antisemitism and queerphobia. In this context, educator preparation programs are essential to sustaining K–12 ES. This presentation shares findings from a mixed-methods study exploring how pre- and in-service ES teachers navigate these challenges. Survey and qualitative data highlight the importance of centering teacher, student, and community voices; fostering community-engaged learning; supporting curriculum development; and addressing burnout and institutional resistance. The study underscores the urgent need to empower educators to maintain their critical work amid political opposition

Author

• Darlene Lee, University of California - Los Angeles