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: Paperback / softback
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 where their voices can be heard and have worked to challenge traditional academic norms and power structures. Through their experiences as doctoral students, current faculty members, and academic administrators, Black women have shared valuable lessons learned and strategies for influencing systemic and institutional change.

This edited volume aims to bridge the gap between foundational and contemporary intergenerational, interdisciplinary voices. By bringing together a diverse range of scholars and practitioners, the volume seeks to elucidate Black feminist epistemologies and praxis. Chapter authors highlight relevant research, methodologies, and theoretical or conceptual frameworks, share their experiences as doctoral students, current faculty members, and academic administrators, and offer lessons learned and strategies for driving systemic and institutional change for and with Black women.

One of the key themes that emerge from the chapters is the importance of centering Black women's experiences and perspectives in academic research and practice. Black women have often been marginalized and excluded from mainstream academic discourse, and their contributions to the field have been overlooked or undervalued. By centering Black feminist epistemologies, the volume aims to rectify this imbalance and ensure that Black women's voices are heard and valued.

Another important theme is the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue. Black feminist epistemologies are interdisciplinary by nature, drawing on insights from various fields such as sociology, psychology, literature, and philosophy. By bringing together scholars from different disciplines, the volume fosters a richer understanding of the complex issues facing Black women in the academy and provides opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration.

The chapters in this edited volume offer a wealth of insights and strategies for influencing systemic and institutional change for and with Black women. They highlight the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the academy, advocating for equitable policies and practices, and challenging stereotypes and biases that perpetuate gendered racism. The authors also offer practical examples of how Black women have successfully navigated the academy and achieved success in their respective fields.

In conclusion, while there has been progress in increasing the representation of Black women faculty in higher education institutions, the broader academic community must continue to work towards dismantling institutionalized gendered racism. This edited volume provides a valuable contribution to this effort by bringing together foundational and contemporary intergenerational, interdisciplinary perspectives to explicate Black feminist epistemologies and praxis. By centering Black women's experiences and perspectives, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and offering practical strategies for driving systemic and institutional change, the volume aims to contribute to the ongoing struggle for gender equality and social justice in the academy.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032027258