Latina/o/x Education in Chicago: Roots, Resistance, and Transformation

This collection explores the history of Mexican American and Puerto Rican education in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system, focusing on three themes: segregated and inferior schooling, changing purposes and meanings, and Latina/o/x resistance to neoliberal reforms. Contributors look at stories of student strength and resistance, oppressive systems, and criminalization, highlighting the ongoing struggle for educational equity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2022
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

This collection of essays, written by local experts, delves into the history of Mexican American and Puerto Rican education in the CPS system. The essays explore three key themes: the historical context of segregated and inferior schooling for Latina/o/x students, the evolving purposes and meanings of education for Latina/o/x students from the 1950s to the present, and the resistance against educational reforms rooted in neoliberalism. Contributors examine various aspects of educational significance, including stories of student strength and resistance, the oppressive systems imposed on Mexican American women, the criminalization of Puerto Ricans advocating for liberatory education, and other relevant topics.

Despite the persistence of harmful past practices, Latina/o/x communities and students continue to engage in transformative practices that shape new approaches to education. These practices hold the potential to reverberate not only in Chicago but nationwide, fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.

The historical context of segregated and inferior schooling for Latina/o/x students is a central theme in the essays. The authors highlight the systemic barriers and discrimination that have hindered the educational opportunities of Latina/o/x students throughout history. They discuss the legacy of segregation, redlining, and limited access to resources, which have created an unequal playing field in education.

The changing purposes and meanings of education for Latina/o/x students are another critical aspect explored in the collection. The authors argue that education has evolved from a means of social control to a tool for empowerment and social mobility. They highlight the importance of providing culturally responsive and relevant education that addresses the unique needs and experiences of Latina/o/x students.

Latina/o/x resistance to educational reforms grounded in neoliberalism is a significant theme in the essays. The authors argue that neoliberal policies have perpetuated educational inequality and have failed to address the root causes of educational disparities. They discuss the ways in which Latina/o/x communities have resisted these reforms, including organizing grassroots movements, advocating for policy changes, and developing alternative education models.

The collection also includes personal narratives and testimonials from Latina/o/x students, educators, and community members. These narratives provide a firsthand account of the experiences and challenges faced by Latina/o/x students in the CPS system. They showcase the resilience and determination of Latina/o/x communities in fighting for educational equity and highlight the importance of community support and collaboration in achieving this goal.

Despite the progress made, the essays in Latina/o/x Education in Chicago emphasize that many harmful past practices remain the norm or have even worsened. The authors call for a sustained commitment to addressing educational inequality and promoting equity in education. They advocate for policies that prioritize funding for schools in low-income communities, invest in teacher training and professional development, and provide culturally responsive and relevant education to all students.

In conclusion, Latina/o/x Education in Chicago is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the history and ongoing struggles of Mexican American and Puerto Rican education in the CPS system. The essays provide a deep insight into the historical context, changing purposes, and resistance against educational reforms. They showcase the strength and resilience of Latina/o/x communities and students in the face of adversity. By highlighting the need for sustained efforts and policy changes, the collection contributes to the ongoing dialogue about educational equity and promotes a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape for all students.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252086571