Leadership for Liberation: Centering Marginalized Voices in Equity Reform

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium examines how educational leaders challenge systemic racism and create culturally sustaining pathways for historically marginalized students in STEM, multilingual education, and leadership pipelines. Drawing from diverse views in [removed for submission], the panel highlights the experiences of Black and Latinx students, dual language immersion leadership, and equity-informed instructional reform. Through qualitative and conceptual inquiry, each paper offers actionable insights grounded in community voice and critical praxis. Presenters call for leadership models that move beyond equity rhetoric and into transformative practice, aligned with the AERA 2026 theme. Attendees will engage in dialogue around inclusive policy, program design, and culturally responsive strategies across K–12 and higher education.

Sub Unit

• Division A - Administration / Division A - Section 1: Leadership

Chair

• Theresa A. Meyerott, California State University - Los Angeles

Papers

• Equity Barriers and Gateways: Black Male Access to High School Physics and STEM Pathways - Jennifer DaCosta, Claremont Graduate University

• Honoring Black Herstory and Hope: Informal STEM Leadership for Black Girls’ Empowerment - Jasmine Johnson, University of California at San Diego

• La Vocación: Latina Principals Navigating Leadership through Identity, Mentorship, and Resistance - Ana M. Hernandez, California State University - San Marcos

• Courageous Leadership for Multilingual Equity: Dual Language Immersion in Action - Natasha Neumann, California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo

• “I Wanted to Do It Another Way”: Multilingual Learners as Catalysts for Leadership Transformation - Elisabeth Kim, Lehman College

Session Organizer

• Theresa A. Meyerott, California State University - Los Angeles

Discussant

• Brooke Soles, California State University - San Marcos