Whiteness and the Particularities of Place: Understanding Racial Equity in Education in a Small Town

• In Event: Rural Education Research in the Service of Rural Communities

Abstract

Research on educators who are motivated to join study groups about race indicates that whiteness often limits the effectiveness of white group members’ efforts to address racial inequity in their classrooms and schools. Little is known, however, about white parents and community members, particularly those living in rural areas, who gather together to learn about and promote racial equity in education. This case study explores how whiteness is operating in a community-based racial equity discussion group and how the specific context of this rural place shapes group members’ understandings of race and racism. Preliminary findings suggest that there may be unique challenges to and possibilities for racial equity in predominantly white, small towns.

Author

• Emily Olson Miller, University of Wisconsin - Madison