The Historical Roots of Today’s Challenges & Issues
Focus
The History of black childhood in America is central to our understanding of modern problems and challenges facing our communities today, from minority achievement gaps, drop-out rates, crime and incarceration, health disparities,high rates of family instability and a deepening disconnection from adults. For most black children in America, childhood has never been an age of innocence. Historically, black youth have never been insulated from the pressures and demands, or the racial strictures of their surrounding society. This workshop explores the cultural, economic, and educational realities that have shaped the lives of black children from the era of slavery to the present day. By incorporating visual materials and exercises that highlight the cultural devaluation of black children, How American History Colored Black Childhood will provide a greater understanding of the impact of racism on child-rearing practices and how race has shaped the interactions between black children and the larger society, especially social services. There will be special focus on topics including: cleanliness, corporal punishment, educational values, gender roles, family ties, obedience, religion,sexuality and independence.
Audience
Social Workers
Historians and Other Academics
School Teachers
Faith Based Leaders
Law Enforcement Officials
Students Grade 8+
Undergraduates/Graduate Students
Parents
Black History Month
Programs/Lectures
Ideal Time Frame
2-3 Hours
Maximum Size
50 Participants
* This workshop can be adapted to an hour-length speech with an audience Q&A for audiences larger (or smaller) than 50 participants.