Term of Award

Winter 2025

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Document Type and Release Option

Dissertation (restricted to Georgia Southern)

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

Digital Commons@Georgia Southern License

Department

College of Education

Committee Chair

Peggy Shannon- Baker

Committee Member 1

Ming Fang He

Committee Member 2

Sabrina Ross

Committee Member 3

Brian Schultz

Abstract

2025 feels like a time of fear and censorship. Peaceful protests have caused violent arrests and deportations (Blitzer, 2025; Fadel et al., 2025; Patel, 2025). Federal mandates, state laws, and school board policies censor educators and students who advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and justice (Caradonna, 2024; Patel, 2025; Welton & Harris, 2022). This dissertation examines how Young Activists of Color fought for equity in their high schools, how they continued to fight after education gag orders (EGOs), and the advice they have for future youth activism as conservative voices continue to censor curriculum. Using critical race theory as a lens, this qualitative study employs portraiture as a methodology to analyze the interviews of seven Young Activists of Color using the Listening Guide. Narrative portraits are followed by a fictionalized panel discussion between participants.Meanings include the development of curriculum outside institutional education including curriculum developed by both Black families and students themselves. The value of student voice is explored in addition to the complicated role of adult allies. The unique methods used by Young Activists of Color are presented within the context of the racial reality of censorship. Young Activists offer advice to their younger counterparts including protecting counterspaces on campus, valuing Black Joy, and using racial reality as a form of self-care. There is analysis of methodology specifically on cultural humility necessary for limiting both whiteness and adultism in cross-cultural academic research. This dissertation culminates in explaining how, even in the darkness of oppression, students can light the way.

OCLC Number

1550656579

Research Data and Supplementary Material

No

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