An Expansion of a Scholar's Social Justice Perspective: A Meeting at the Crossroads

Abstract

Using a life notes methodology (Bell-Scott, 1994; Dillard, 2000, 2006; Simmons, 2007), I use personal narratives to describe my epistemological influences on my approach to educational practice, research, and the preparation of school leaders. Second, I share personal accounts of how my social justice lens expanded to be inclusive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered individuals. Finally, I draw four important lessons from my personal social justice journey for educators to incorporate within their social justice educational leadership curriculum. These lessons include helping students be reflective practitioners, acknowledging the baggage of misinformation and prejudice that they may bring to a social justice education, being able to connect with students at their points of advocacy, and reminding future leaders of their unquestionable responsibility to support all students regardless of their identities.