Life Lessons: Understanding Social Justice in Journalistic Education Among Latina Middle School Students

• In Event: Fostering Culturally Sustaining Literacies of Justice and Liberation

Abstract

This research examines the experiences of 13 Latina sixth grade students in South Los Angeles who participated in a year-long journalism-based media literacy program embedded in their social studies classes. Students had opportunities to research, interview, write and publish articles to the web about social justice themes, including immigration, feminism, racism, gun violence, and LGBTQ rights. Students also interrogated pervasive negative narratives about their community and culture. Grounded in critical pedagogy (Freire) and social justice education (Moje), focus group findings show students foster critical awareness about social justice issues through awareness and agency. Additional findings show students use social justice literacy education to develop their voices through advocacy and authentic application of lesson and skills.

Authors

• Rachel Guldin, University of Oregon

• Ross C Anderson, University of Oregon

• Ed Madison, University of Oregon