Abstracts
Abstract
Utilizing a duoethnography research methodology, postsecondary students and professors discussed how preschool children’s engagement in craftivism supported their understanding of homelessness. Media and picture books provoked conversations and increased the children’s awareness of social issues impacting marginalized youth who are silenced and othered. Third-wave feminist ideas related to craftivism and Miranda Fricker’s thinking on epistemic injustice provided a scholarly framework for the research. The study findings point to the importance of listening to children’s voices and honouring their right to actively explore social issues through play, dialogue, and craftivism.
Keywords:
- craftivism,
- early childhood education,
- activism,
- epistemic injustice,
- child rights
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Appendices
Biographical notes
Carolyn Bjartveit, PhD, is an associate professor in the Department of Child Studies and Social Work at Mount Royal University, Alberta, Canada, and coordinator of the bachelor of child studies degree, Early Learning and Child Care Program. Her research focuses on human rights, social justice, topics of teaching and learning, and the complex intersections of the selves of students and educators with the curriculum in culturally diverse postsecondary classrooms. Email: cbjartveit@mtroyal.ca
Emmie Henderson-Dekort, PhD, is an assistant professor at Mount Royal University in the Department of Child Studies and Social Work. Her research interests involve children’s rights, participation, play-based methodologies, and trauma-informed practices. Email: ehendersondekort@mtroyal.ca
Emma DeCecco is a graduate of the bachelor of child studies degree program at Mount Royal University. She has a background in both early learning and childhood education and child and youth care counselling. After working in the youth homeless sector, she has developed a passion for social activism related to destigmatizing marginalized communities through a lens of harm reduction and holistic approaches that advocate for and uplift those experiencing social injustice. Email: edece140@mtroyal.ca
Alisha Bagshaw Brooks is a graduate of the bachelor of child studies degree program, with a major in child and youth care counselling, at Mount Royal University. Alisha has had experience in both early childhood education settings and as a child and youth care counsellor. Her passions include supporting women and children affected by domestic violence and dismantling systemic barriers for individuals with disabilities. She works from a client-centered, strength-based approach and a lens of harm reduction. Email: Abags569@mtroyal.ca
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