Disorderly Contexts: ELAC Conference 2024

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” In 2023, there is a pervasive call in the English Language Arts classroom to reflect the diverse and intersectional lives of our students. As such, we would like to propose a session at the upcoming ELAC Conference, focusing on the vital role of diverse literature in approaching intersectionality, diversity, and social justice in the English Language Arts curriculum. As educators, it is crucial that we create inclusive and equitable learning environments that reflect the diverse experiences and identities of our students. Integrating diverse literature can profoundly impact our students' understanding of various perspectives, foster empathy, and encourage critical thinking about social justice issues. Research shows that when provided with literature that reflects the diverse, intersectional, and critical lives of our very own students, and they are given a way to express this learning in diverse literacies, they thrive. Teaching diverse literacies is not only paramount for developing critical literacy, it gives students, teachers, and schools the tools to approach systemic marginalization, disrupting harmful histories and stereotypes. In this interactive session, we will delve into text recommendations and effective strategies for incorporating diverse literature into the English Language Arts curriculum. Both graduate students from the University of New Brunswick and high school English teachers in Alberta, Shealeigh Brandford and Alisha Sims have extensive experience and a passion for teaching equitable and inclusive literature. Participants will gain insights into the importance of intersectionality and its role in understanding the complexity of social identities. We will explore how literature can serve as a tool for promoting empathy, understanding, and critical thinking among students, enabling them to navigate complex social issues with sensitivity and awareness. The session will emphasize the significance of selecting texts that authentically represent diverse voices and experiences, allowing students to see themselves and others reflected in the literature they study.