Dr. Courtney Bell-Duncan defines epistemological oppression as the lack of understanding and knowledge of one’s experience and identity by self or others because of historic exclusion or limiting of access to information. This oppression, which impacts both disenfranchised and franchised children in our schools, leads to false inferiority (or superiority) and racist ideologies, systems and behaviors that often result in a loss of life or life chances as children move into adulthood. In this talk, Courtney will discuss how culturally responsive pedagogy has the power to counter and actively disarm epistemic violence against K-12 schools. She will also lay a foundation for transformational shifts in thinking about culture in schools and the broader society.

Alumni Spotlight Feature in CEHD Connect Magazine Summer 2023 Edition.