Anti-Oppressive Education in “Elite” Schools: Promising Practices and Cautionary Tales From the Field

Independent schools are increasingly discussing racial bias, prejudice, and privilege. The George Floyd protests highlighted the role of race in violence and inequality in the US. As schools position themselves as anti-racist, there is backlash and protests against anti-racist curricula and inclusive policies. The book "Anti-Oppressive Education in 'Elite' Schools: Promising Practices and Cautionary Tales From the Field" explores the tension and paradox of working within elite institutions to promote justice. It emphasizes the need for an anti-oppressive philosophy of education to disrupt oppressive ideologies. The book is intended for those in schools that hold institutionalized power and are willing to challenge social justice. It examines the importance of anti-oppressive education, critiques diversity and inclusion initiatives, and provides practical advice for enhancing curricula. The book argues that white liberalism is not anti-oppressive education and emphasizes the need to prioritize the interests of marginalized individuals. It concludes with the question of whether elite educational spaces can be leveraged for justice. The book encourages mindfulness of exclusions and illusions and promotes the promotion of compassion and justice in local and global contexts.