EduCon 2018

While we continually discuss and advocate for DEI work and multicultural education, and are making strides in uncovering oppressive systems in classrooms, we seem to overlook or avoid two major strategies that would move the needle towards antiracist action in dismantling oppressive systems, structures and practices at the school level. The first obstacle to progress is status quo leadership–a reluctance to turn the lens inward to examine our own leadership practices which may inadvertently reinforce oppression and inequity. The second obstacle is the inability to recognize ingrained, status quo pedagogical, assessment, organizational and disciplinary practices that perpetuate oppression and racism. In this session, we hope to have a discussion that illuminates where we might be stuck in schools, where DEI work might derail antiracist action, what is working and how students are thriving. Participants will collectively generate innovative, critical actions to address unjust practices that do not serve the best interest of students.