Why liberatory ethnic studies in schools matter now more than ever

One year into the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us many things about the state of the nation. One important lesson is that any proposed ethnic studies curriculum must encourage the critical thinking skills and sense of ethical responsibility necessary to address the disproportionate loss and destruction Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities have endured.

In this solicited op-ed piece for the San Diego Union Tribune, I consider the urgency of critical ethnic studies curriculum in California public schools, especially given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our communities of color. To truly transform -- not just rebuild public education -- after the pandemic, we must commit ourselves to a critical ethnic studies curriculum that develops social and historical awareness, critical thinking, and an ethics of empathy.

Read the article on the San Diego Union-Tribune (opens in a new window)