Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy : A Needed Change in Stance, Terminology, and Practice

Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy : A Needed Change in Stance, Terminology, and Practice

2012 | Django Paris
Django Paris, an educational researcher, reflects on the evolution of culturally relevant pedagogy and proposes the term "culturally sustaining pedagogy" as a more comprehensive approach. In his essay, Paris critiques the terms "relevant" and "responsive" used in previous research and practice, arguing that they do not adequately address the need to value and maintain the cultural and linguistic practices of marginalized communities. He emphasizes the importance of sustaining linguistic, literate, and cultural pluralism in education to ensure a democratic and equitable society. Paris draws on the work of Gloria Ladson-Billings, who introduced the concept of culturally relevant pedagogy in 1995, and other scholars who have built upon it. He highlights the need for pedagogies that support multilingualism and multiculturalism, while also addressing systemic inequalities and power imbalances. Paris concludes by advocating for culturally sustaining pedagogy as a way to foster a more inclusive and just educational environment.Django Paris, an educational researcher, reflects on the evolution of culturally relevant pedagogy and proposes the term "culturally sustaining pedagogy" as a more comprehensive approach. In his essay, Paris critiques the terms "relevant" and "responsive" used in previous research and practice, arguing that they do not adequately address the need to value and maintain the cultural and linguistic practices of marginalized communities. He emphasizes the importance of sustaining linguistic, literate, and cultural pluralism in education to ensure a democratic and equitable society. Paris draws on the work of Gloria Ladson-Billings, who introduced the concept of culturally relevant pedagogy in 1995, and other scholars who have built upon it. He highlights the need for pedagogies that support multilingualism and multiculturalism, while also addressing systemic inequalities and power imbalances. Paris concludes by advocating for culturally sustaining pedagogy as a way to foster a more inclusive and just educational environment.
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