Why Civics Needs Social Justice Education
![Illustration of various exaggerated figures appearing in silhouettes of books.](/sites/default/files/styles/article_thumbnail_s_m_l_xl/public/2023-09/LFJ-05-Civics-Education-and-Social-Justice-1800x1080-09052023.jpg?itok=OlZtfMk1)
What does social justice education really mean? The current climate of censorship and disinformation along with attacks on inclusive education makes it crucial for us all to understand the role of education in building a just society that benefits us all.
Critical Practices for Social Justice Education is a resource guide to support K-12 educators in growing their understanding of social justice principles and integrating them into their practice. This revised edition is informed by the current social and political landscape and acknowledges the ways educators have been challenged by increased political scrutiny, censorship and debate about what can be taught in schools. Despite these challenges, educators across the country have renewed their commitment to inclusive, affirming and equitable education.
As journalist and educator Anthony Conwright argues in the Fall 2022 issue of Learning for Justice magazine, “Trauma-informed and restorative justice practices are among the beginning models of an equity process to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. And while systemic change is essential, educators have an immediate responsibility to prioritize the mental health and well-being of students.”