Unforgetting Histories, Defending Futures: An Interactive Town Hall on Censorship and Democratic Schooling

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

Conflicts over curriculum, censorship, and historical memory are intensifying across P–12 schools and universities, reshaping what can be taught, funded, researched, and publicly discussed. This interactive town hall examines how historical erasure and ideological suppression affect educators, students, and democratic life. Brief presentations from scholars, practitioners, legal experts, and students will frame the challenges and emerging responses. Most of the session will involve facilitated dialogue and large-scale audience input on professional risks, student well-being, and collective action. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding, shared strategies, and concrete ideas for strengthening democratic education in constrained times.

Sub Unit

• AERA Science and Policy Sessions

Chairs

• David M. Osher, Education Collaboratory at Yale University

• Brenda L. Townsend Walker, University of South Florida

Participants

• Brenda L. Townsend Walker, University of South Florida

• David M. Osher, Education Collaboratory at Yale University

• Sameer Sourav, UCLA Community Schools

• Pedro A. Noguera, University of Southern California

• Angela Lopez, UCLA Community Schools

• Mark Rosenbaum, Public Counsel

• Megan Bang, Northwestern University