Attacked Because It Works: Defending the Power of Ethnic Studies in California

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium explores the ongoing struggle to protect and expand Ethnic Studies as a transformative educational practice rooted in the demands of Black and Brown communities. While California has mandated Ethnic Studies as a graduation requirement, its implementation faces political backlash, curriculum censorship, and challenges around accessibility. Panelists share insights from their work resisting the dilution of Ethnic Studies and making it responsive to all students, including disabled youth and emerging bilinguals. The session examines current attacks in relation to historical efforts to erase liberatory education, highlighting how educators continue to fight for its radical potential. Grounded in resistance and solidarity, this symposium aligns with AERA’s 2026 theme by unforgetting histories and imagining justice-centered educational futures.

Sub Unit

• Division B - Curriculum Studies / Division B - Section 6: De/Colonization and Transformative Curriculum Studies

Chair

• Maharaj Desai, California State University - East Bay

Papers

• What They’re Really Afraid Of: The Radical Power of Ethnic Studies - Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales, San Francisco State University

• Access as a Liberatory Principle of Ethnic Studies: Supporting Multiply-Marginalized Black and Brown Youth - Subini Ancy Annamma, Stanford University; Aimee Riechel, San Francisco State University

• Teacher Education and the Fight for Ethnic Studies Amongst Conservative Backlash - Rita Kohli, University of California - Riverside

• Centering the Four Cornerstones: Ensuring Principled Implementation of Ethnic Studies Teacher Development - Artnelson Concordia, Santa Barbara Unified School District

Session Organizer

• Subini Ancy Annamma, Stanford University

Discussant

• Arlene Daus-Magbaul, San Francisco State University