Massey academic to deliver keynote at inaugural anti-racism education conference

The conference, taking place on 5 and 6 July, brings together educators, researchers, community organisations and whānau to share ideas for addressing racism in education. Massey's Centre for Culture-Centred Approach to Research and Evaluation (CARE), led by Professor Dutta, is a key partner alongside the Whānau Community Hub.

Professor Dutta's keynote, A Culture-Centred Approach to Anti-racism in Education: Naming Racism, Bullying, and the Erasure of Complaint, examines what happens when students and whānau raise concerns about racism in schools and how those experiences can sometimes be minimised or dismissed.

Drawing on research and contemporary examples, the presentation will explore the relationship between racism and bullying, the barriers people can face when speaking up and approaches that support more equitable and inclusive educational environments grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Professor Dutta says the conference provides an important opportunity for educators and communities to learn from one another and consider practical ways to strengthen anti-racist practice.

"When a child or a parent raises concerns about racism in a school and those concerns are turned back on them, they can be left feeling their voice does not matter. Anti-racist futures begin when we create environments where concerns can be heard, institutions are accountable and the wellbeing of young people comes first.

"This conference brings together educators, researchers, community organisations and whānau who are committed to building more inclusive education systems. CARE is proud to be part of that conversation," he adds.

The conference will feature other speakers, workshops and discussions focused on addressing racism in education and strengthening collaboration across schools and communities.

Further information about the conference can be found here.

There are limited number of spaces available at the conference. Click here to register.