Reflections: A Journal of Community-Engaged Writing and Rhetoric Apr 2007 Open Access

The Art of Knowing Your Place: White Service Learning Leaders and Urban Community Organizations

Steve Zimmer

Abstract

Meaningful change through service learning can only occur If service learning leaders build "embedded" relationships with community organizations. The paradox is that the mora engaged the relationship, the more intense the issues of race, class and power. Institutional racism tempts white activists to assume they know what Is best for a community. If they give in to this temptation they risk co-opting the community's agenda and diminishing the possibility for legitimate empowerment. Well-meaning service learning professionals must learn to navigate these risks by becoming allies rather than leaders in community organizations.

Journal
Reflections: A Journal of Community-Engaged Writing and Rhetoric
Published
2007-04-01
DOI
10.59236/rjv6i1pp7-26
CompPile
Open Access
OA PDF Gold
Topics
service learning race and writing
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