Advancing Black Youth Justice and Healing through Contemplative Practices and African Spiritual Wisdom

Authors

  • Michelle C Chatman University of the District of Columbia

Keywords:

Engaged Pedagogy, African Culture, Critical Pedagogy

Abstract

Enduring constructs of inequity seem to perpetually devalue Black youth, casting them as insignificant and disposable. Critical contemplative pedagogy can help us disrupt the damaging narratives and systems that impede youth thriving, while also awakening us to a deeper knowing of justice. In this reflective essay, I offer a reimagining of Black youth through the use of contemplative practices and West African cultural wisdom. 

Author Biography

Michelle C Chatman, University of the District of Columbia

Assistant Professor in Crime, Justice, and Security Studies. PhD in Cultural Anthropology. Research areas gentrification and urban inequality; Black religious and cultural institutions; and youth justice. Also a vocalist and activist.

References

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Published

2020-01-13

Issue

Section

Reflections