Live and Teach in LA: Ethnic Studies Educator Perspectives on Pedagogies and Praxis

• In Event: Ethnic Studies Education across Tovaangar

Abstract

Abstract:
James Baldwin’s (1963) powerful essay, “A Talk to Teachers” begins describing the moment in
which he wrote as, “living through a very dangerous time.” Hauntingly so, Baldwin outlines the
responsibility of educators in addressing racism and ways to support Black students in particular as a
“revolutionary situation.” As the world reels from pandemics, heightened anxieties and fear for Black
and Brown communities, and white supremacy in schools is marked by legislative moves toward
censorship, a critical appraisal of the role of racial justice in the preparation of teachers is needed.
Through the experiences of an elementary school teacher that teaches from an Ethnic Studies lens and a
high school AP African American History and US history teacher, this presentation considers: How does
learning Ethnic Studies sustain and support the lives and work of teachers? How can researchers take up
the “revolutionary situation” to create spaces for teacher education to co-construct opportunities for
Ethnic Studies Education teaching and learning? What does living and teaching Ethnic Studies in LA
illuminate for researchers? With AERA’s theme, this presentation highlights the pedagogies and praxis
of two teachers who study and apply Ethnic Studies in their classrooms as one way of “thinking and
feeling beyond our individual life spans” the utility of Ethnic Studies in all schools. As teachers that
attended, grew up in, and now teach in LA schools, our presentation is both introspection and gratitude
for the communities that raised us and sites where we continue to learn and grow.

Authors

• Yadira Villalobs Mojica, 75th Street Elementary School, Los Angeles Unified School District

• Scott Aquilles, Mann UCLA Community School, Los Angeles Unified School District