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Embracing Arts and Social Justice in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Cierra Kaler-Jones

In this episode of 'Dirty Laundry,' Mandy Griffin and Katy Swalwell interview Dr. Cierra Kaler-Jones, a social justice educator, writer, and the first executive director of Rethinking Schools. Dr. Jones discusses her background, the importance of creating educational spaces rooted in joy and love, and how the arts intersect with justice work. They explore the origins of Rethinking Schools, its mission to combat whitewashed curricula, and the transformative work educators are doing to promote social justice in classrooms. The conversation extends to the challenges and successes of incorporating arts and critical pedagogy in education and offers insights into how parents and community members can support these efforts. This enlightening discussion concludes with practical advice on enhancing community involvement in the education system.

Rethinking Schools

Zinn Education Project

Red, Wine & Blue

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Author interview with Elizabeth Gillespie McRae, author of 'Mothers of Massive Resistance,' a book examining how white women have systematically supported and engineered white supremacy. The discussion covers McRae's academic background, research insights, and specific women profiled in the book. It also touches on contemporary parallels, the importance of education in dismantling racial hierarchies, and how political discourses clouding political realities can sustain oppressive systems. The hosts emphasize the relevance of McRae's work in understanding current socio-political dynamics and the role of grassroots efforts in effecting change.

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Mandy Griffin and Katy Swalwell discuss the concluding chapter of Elizabeth Gillespie McRae's book, 'Mothers of Massive Resistance.' They explore the roles that white women in Northern and Southern United States played in maintaining segregationist policies and resisting racial integration from the 1920s to the 1970s. The chapter ties historical segregation efforts to contemporary issues and how these women evolved their strategies to appear race-neutral while upholding systemic racism. The discussion includes historical instances of organized resistance, connections between Northern and Southern segregationist women, and the critique of historians' portrayal of these efforts. The episode also highlights the importance of understanding systemic racism and addressing the actual root causes rather than superficial symptoms.