Disrupting Racism and Elevating Black Joy

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Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

We address the systemic racism and implicit biases embedded within Los Angeles educational systems, which significantly hinder Black students' well-being and academic success. Despite progress, Black families often encounter environments lacking cultural affirmation and support, resulting in long-term harm and trauma. For instance, studies show that Black children in LA face significant racial discrimination, contributing to higher dropout rates and lower academic achievement. Racist structures then reinforce the disparities they confront. Our mission is to dismantle these oppressive structures and promote Black joy through data-driven Equity Audits, tailored Social Emotional Learning programs, and culturally affirming affinity spaces. By expanding our research capabilities, increasing the number of affinity spaces, and providing targeted training for educators, we aim to create inclusive educational environments that recognize and address implicit biases.

Our mission is to dismantle oppressive structures and promote Black joy through several key initiatives:
Data-Driven Equity Audits: We conduct comprehensive Equity Audits and Needs Assessments in Los Angeles schools to identify and address the unique challenges faced by Black students and families. These audits provide actionable recommendations to create more inclusive and equitable educational environments, measured by reduced racial incidents and improved school climate surveys.
Tailored Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs: Our SEL programs focus on enhancing the emotional and psychological well-being of Black students. By integrating culturally relevant practices, we equip students with the skills needed to navigate and thrive in challenging environments. Success is measured through pre- and post-program surveys assessing emotional well-being and academic performance.
Culturally Affirming Affinity Spaces: We design and facilitate affinity spaces where Black families can gather, share experiences, and support one another in a culturally affirming environment. These spaces foster a sense of belonging and communal healing, crucial for addressing social and emotional needs. We measure success through participant feedback and increased engagement in community activities.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles will see a significant transformation in its educational landscape. Black students will experience improved social and emotional well-being and academic success due to inclusive and supportive school environments, as evidenced by higher graduation rates and reduced disciplinary actions. Educators will be equipped to recognize and address implicit biases, leading to teaching practices that affirm and uplift Black students. Our affinity spaces will foster connected communities, promoting healing and resilience. Long-term, we envision scaling our programs across more schools. This expansion will further dismantle systemic racism in education, ensuring that Black families have access to environments where their cultural identity is celebrated and their educational experiences are equitable. Ultimately, Los Angeles will become a leader in promoting Black joy, inclusion, and academic excellence, setting a standard for other communities to follow.

We conduct pre- and post-program surveys to assess changes in student and family well-being, collect feedback from participants in our affinity spaces, and track improvements in school climate through Equity Audits and Needs Assessments. Our data shows increased student engagement, reduced reports of racial incidents, and enhanced emotional well-being among participants.
Evidence of our success includes positive feedback from Black families and educators, including over 8000 students, over 300 families, and 250 educators who report feeling more supported and culturally affirmed. Our work spans 10 schools over three school districts and continues to expand. Additionally, schools that have implemented our recommendations have seen tangible improvements in inclusivity and academic outcomes for Black students.
We plan to scale our impact by expanding our programs to more schools within Los Angeles County and beyond.