Anti-Blackness at School: Creating Affirming Educational Spaces for African American Students

American schools have a history of harming Black children and being silent in the face of their struggles. Anti-Blackness at School provides concrete ways for teachers and administrators to create Black-affirming spaces and reject racism. The book offers interracial perspectives and uses case studies, activities, and techniques to address anti-Blackness and its harm.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2022
Publisher: Teachers' College Press

While schools are often portrayed as neutral and fair, many American schools have perpetrated harm against Black children or remained silent in the face of their struggles, including under-education, mistreatment, and systemic racism. While there are individuals within these spaces who advocate for Black children, many others disregard Black families, minimize students' concerns, and believe that colorblindness can solve the issue of educational inequity. The authors delve into the various manifestations of anti-Blackness within school settings, highlighting its pervasive nature. Drawing on over 44 years of equity work, they offer practical and meaningful strategies for teachers and administrators to create Black-affirming spaces. This book is specifically designed for pre- and in-service teachers, as well as professionals working with Black children and youth.

Anti-Blackness at School explores the scope of anti-Blackness and provides teachers with actionable steps to reject racism. It highlights how school policies, programs, belief systems, and customs contribute to the hostile environment experienced by Black youth. The book distinguishes between diversity work and antiracist work, emphasizing the importance of a justice- and equity-focused approach. It provides practitioners with readily accessible resources to challenge racism and uplift Black youth in their care.

The authors, Joi Spencer, a Black woman from California, and Kerri Ullucci, a White woman from Rhode Island, offer intercultural perspectives throughout the book. They use case studies, activities, lessons, and techniques to engage readers and facilitate meaningful discussions about anti-Blackness. The book also includes practical strategies for teachers to address anti-Blackness in their classrooms, such as promoting culturally responsive teaching, challenging stereotypes, and creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.

By raising awareness about anti-Blackness and providing practical guidance for educators, Anti-Blackness at School aims to contribute to the dismantling of systemic racism in schools. It serves as a valuable resource for teachers, administrators, and anyone committed to promoting equity and justice in education.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780807767573