Education and the Work of Democracy: Forming New Perspectives for Social Action

Public education is one of the most contested institutions in the United States where a participatory citizenry can—and must—determine its purpose and intent. First, we must ask, what is the purpose of schools and education today? The answer to this question depends upon our social, political, and economic will, a will which may only seek to maintain the status quo. Or are we ready to assertively prepare and foster a democratic life (i.e., organizing or taking action for social change) for future generations?

If the former prevails, then we only continue to reproduce regressive educational policy and practices that center high stakes testing, Euro-centric curriculum, and factory-like schools where critical consciousness, cultural responsiveness, and community action are inhibited. And yet, if the educational intent of “the people” is to foster a robust, diverse, and participatory democracy, then we must together create an education system that invites and teaches students and citizens how to build social change through organizing and sustained civic engagement in and out of political systems. That is, learn about, develop, and employ an array of tools within a democratic toolkit. At minimum, holding our elected officials accountable and voting are ways to demand action and representation on our behalf. However, democracy requires stronger, active participation for effective and equitable governing. This is the right moment to refocus schooling on democratic values and on helping prepare students, representing diverse perspectives, continue the work of democracy.

Therefore, this 2-quarter program operates on the notion that education and schooling should cultivate and foster knowledge and strategies that contribute to the work of democracy. We will explore how schooling and education have been used to oppress, dehumanize, and marginalize students. And yet, by centering the historical, cultural, and linguistic identities and lives of students, education can serve as a tool for social movements and activism. Using an activist tool framework (Martell, C. & Stevens, K., 2021), we will examine social and educational movements through cultural preparation, critical analysis, and collective action. Now more than ever we need an education system that can prepare students to take democratic action. Education must provide the tools necessary for students to engage in civic problem solving and envisioned society for the better.