Black Feminist Epistemology, Research, and Praxis: Narratives in and through the Academy

This edited volume explores Black feminist epistemologies and praxis, highlighting relevant research, methodologies, and theoretical or conceptual frameworks, and offering lessons learned and strategies to influence systemic and institutional change for and with Black women.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

While there has been a notable increase in the representation of Black women faculty in higher education institutions, the broader academic community persists in perpetuating, marginalizing, and reinforcing institutionalized gendered racism through its policies and practices. Black women have adeptly navigated, negotiated, and developed strategies to thrive from their unique perspectives and epistemologies, challenging prevailing narratives of success and advancement within the academy. This edited volume brings together foundational and contemporary intergenerational, interdisciplinary perspectives to explicate Black feminist epistemologies and praxis. Chapter authors showcase relevant research, methodologies, and theoretical or conceptual frameworks; share their experiences as doctoral students, current faculty members, and academic administrators; and offer valuable insights and strategies for driving systemic and institutional change for and with Black women.

The representation of Black women faculty in higher education institutions has indeed seen a positive trend in recent years. However, it is crucial to recognize that the academy as a whole continues to exploit, discriminate, and uphold institutionalized gendered racism through its policies and practices. This issue manifests in various ways, including unequal pay, limited opportunities for advancement, and a lack of recognition for Black women's contributions to the field.

Black women have navigated these challenges by developing their own unique perspectives and epistemologies. They have sought out spaces and communities where they can thrive and share their knowledge and experiences. These spaces often challenge traditional narratives of success and advancement, highlighting the diverse ways in which Black women can excel in the academy.

One of the key contributions of this edited volume is its focus on intergenerational and interdisciplinary perspectives. By bringing together foundational and contemporary voices, the book seeks to elucidate Black feminist epistemologies and praxis. Chapter authors highlight relevant research, methodologies, and theoretical or conceptual frameworks, sharing their experiences as doctoral students, current faculty members, and academic administrators. They offer valuable lessons learned and strategies for influencing systemic and institutional change for and with Black women.

One of the significant lessons highlighted in the book is the importance of centering Black women's voices and experiences. Black women have been historically marginalized and silenced in the academic community, and their perspectives and experiences are often overlooked or ignored. By centering their voices, the book aims to promote greater equity and inclusion in the academy.

Another important theme is the need for intersectionality in Black feminist epistemologies and praxis. Black women face unique challenges due to their race, gender, class, and other intersecting identities. By recognizing and addressing these intersections, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the experiences and struggles of Black women in the academy.

The book also offers practical strategies for promoting systemic and institutional change. Chapter authors suggest ways in which academic institutions can create more inclusive and equitable environments for Black women faculty. This includes implementing policies that promote diversity and inclusion, providing support and resources for Black women faculty, and addressing the root causes of institutionalized gendered racism.

In conclusion, while there has been progress in increasing the representation of Black women faculty in higher education institutions, the broader academic community still has a long way to go in addressing institutionalized gendered racism. This edited volume provides valuable insights and strategies for promoting Black feminist epistemologies and praxis, centering Black women's voices and experiences, and addressing the intersectionality of Black women's identities. By implementing these strategies, academic institutions can create more inclusive and equitable environments for Black women faculty and contribute to the advancement of diversity and inclusion in the academy.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032026381