Tender Violence in US Schools: Benevolent Whiteness and the Dangers of Heroic White Womanhood

Tender Violence in US Schools explores how white women have historically understood their roles in the disciplining of Black and Indigenous students, and how and why their role has been constructed over time and space in service to institutions of the white settler colonial state.

Format: Hardback
Length: 108 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Within the realm of educational research, the issue of over-disciplining Black and Indigenous students is frequently portrayed as a problem rooted in pathologized or misunderstood communities. This perspective suggests that theories and proposed solutions often revolve around finding ways to make students of color from specific backgrounds more compatible with US educational standards rather than critically examining the racist foundations of those standards.

Tender Violence in US Schools takes a bold stance by addressing this discipline gap. It delves into a previously overlooked perspective, exploring how white women, who comprise the majority of US teachers, have historically understood their roles in the disciplining of Black and Indigenous students. Furthermore, it examines how and why their roles have been constructed over time and space in service to institutions of the white settler colonial state.

By examining these complex dynamics, Tender Violence in US Schools sheds light on the ways in which racial disparities in discipline are perpetuated and challenges the dominant narratives that seek to explain them away. It offers a critical analysis of the historical and systemic factors that contribute to the over-disciplining of Black and Indigenous students and provides insights into the potential for transformative change.

Through its exploration of the roles of white women in the disciplining of Black and Indigenous students, Tender Violence in US Schools contributes to a broader understanding of the complex interplay between race, gender, and power in educational institutions. It challenges readers to consider the ways in which their own biases and assumptions may shape their interactions with students of different backgrounds and encourages them to work towards creating more inclusive and equitable learning environments.

In conclusion, Tender Violence in US Schools is a thought-provoking and important book that offers a fresh perspective on the issue of over-disciplining Black and Indigenous students. By challenging the dominant narratives and examining the historical and systemic factors that contribute to this problem, it provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue about equity and justice in education.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032063379