Episode Summary
The conversation presented in this episode underscores a crucial and stark reality: the adultification of Black boys within educational and societal contexts. This phenomenon, which effectively robs them of their childhood, manifests in the premature attribution of adult responsibilities and expectations, thus leading to severe repercussions for their psychological and emotional development. As we delve into the narratives shared by our guests, Dr. Amir Gilmore and Mike Brown, we explore their insights into the necessity of recognizing the complexities of Black boyhood—characterized not only by its challenges but also by its joys, aspirations, and inherent worth. Through their reflections, we aim to illuminate the systemic inequities that shape the experiences of Black children in educational environments and advocate for a more compassionate and nuanced understanding of their identities. This dialogue invites educators and listeners alike to engage in meaningful reflection about their roles in dismantling these inequities and fostering environments that celebrate the brilliance and joy of Black childhood. Ultimately, we emphasize the imperative of ensuring that Black boys are not merely seen through the lens of deficit but are recognized as vibrant and deserving of every opportunity to thrive.
About the guests
Amir A. Gilmore, Ph.D., is an associate professor of Cultural Studies and Social Thought in Education and the Judy Nichols Mitchell Faculty Fellow in the College of Education, Sport, and Human Sciences at Washington State University (WSU).
As a Black interdisciplinary scholar situated in Black Cultural Studies in Education, Amir’s broad research interests are Black Aesthetics, Black boyhoods, Black futurity, antiblackness, and the political economy of schooling. Amir’s current research unequivocally examines the nuances, complexities, and specificities of anti-blackness and how Black people are routinely dehumanized and subjected to physical, psychological, intellectual, and epistemic violence.
Mike Browne (he/him) is a New York–raised Afro-Caribbean educator, coach, consultant, and storyteller. He co-hosts Napcast, a podcast on early learning, race, and social justice, and Parallel Play, the Office of Head Start’s national podcast on toddler development. A former tap dancer and collegiate athlete, Mike lived and worked in London, Spain, and across the U.S., bringing a justice-centered, relational approach to early learning. He centers his work on ancestral wisdom with a modern twist, adapting the lessons of the past to guide children, families, and educators in reclaiming culturally grounded practices and joy in learning today. Tune into Napcast wherever you get your podcasts, and follow on Instagram @napcast206 or Twitter @miguelitobrowne.
About the host
Dr. Michelle DeJohnette is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Studies. Her work focuses on preparing early childhood educators to teach critically and responsibly through anti-racist and social justice frameworks. Drawing on critical theories and culturally responsible pedagogy, her research interrogates how systems of discipline, punishment, and surveillance reproduce inequities and anti-Blackness in Black children’s early learning experiences.
Across her teaching, research, and public scholarship, Dr. DeJohnette is committed to building inclusive, liberatory learning spaces where all children and families are seen, valued, and supported.
Credits
- Cover art by: Emporium Designs; Podcast Branding
- Outro Music: "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Thomasina Petrus & Kashimana Ahua
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