“The Classroom is a Reflection of the Real World”: Black Women Urban Teachers’ Activist Pedagogy and Leadership

Abstract

This article utilizes narrative inquiry and a Black feminist lens to explore the political and social justice orientation of Black women educators and their commitment to students in urban schools. Three Black women teacher leaders explain their pedagogy and leadership during a period of heightened sociopolitical tension, including racial violence and legislative censorship. Analysis of semistructured interviews revealed three themes: (1) facilitating conversations about race-related current events, (2) de-centering whiteness and teaching the truth, and (3) promoting student safety and wellbeing amidst isolation. The article concludes with recommendations to support Black women educator activists and a more diverse teacher workforce.

Keywords

teacher leadership Black women teacher leaders urban education urban teaching urban areas narrative inquiry Black feminist thought

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