Eight Minutes and 46 Seconds: Black Boys and Policing

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Ring the Alarm! Activism, Restorative Justice, and Equity for Children, Families, and Communities

Abstract

This paper challenges a familiar curriculum unit that introduces children in the early grades (Pre-K-3) to “Community Helpers.” A discussion toward acknowledging the interactions Black boys and men have with the police, the results of which frequently include severe injuries or, worse, death, is documented. An introduction to “the talk” Black families must have with their children to prepare them for police interactions is explored. Findings reveal if the “Community Helpers” curriculum unit – and others – are to be culturally responsive, relevant, sustaining, and responsible, the controversy surrounding policing in communities of color cannot be ignored in favor of standards that promote “Government and Civic” engagement that is uncritical and devoid of race, diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (RDEIJ).

Author

• Brian L. Wright, The University of Memphis