"When They See Us": The Promise and Power of Elevating the Critical Leadership of Black Youth in Today's Schools

• In Event: Black Education Into the Future: Wakanda, Fugitivity, and Innovation

Abstract

Generation Z is described as the one that has increased interaction with diverse populations, increased access to technology, and having a higher likelihood of core values that are situated in social justice (Chin, 2015; Simplico, 2013). York & Korshner (2015) argue for the inclusion of students in school-based decision making and encourage civic engagement that activates the knowledge and leadership that is inherent in youth. This presentation will highlight an authentic process for individual and systemic transformation that reflects the lived experiences of Black students in public and independent schools. The broad themes found in this study are: critical youth leadership, white supremacist positioning, resistance, and collective healing.

Author

• Temple Sharese Lovelace, Advanced Education Research and Development Fund