Grassroots Engagement and Social Justice through Cooperative Extension (Transformations in Higher Education)
Description
Grassroots Engagement and Social Justice through Cooperative Extension grows out of a commitment to the belief that Cooperative Extension professionals can and should be deeply engaged with the communities they work in to improve life—individually and collectively. Rooted in an understanding of the history and development of Extension, the authors focus on contemporary efforts to address systemic inequities. They offer an alternative to the “expert” model that would have Extension educators provide information detached from the difficult and sometimes contentious issues that shape community work. These essays highlight Extension’s role in and responsibility for culturally relevant community education that is rooted in democratic practices and social justice. The ultimate aim of this book is to offer a vision for the future of Extension as its practitioners continue to reach for cultural competence necessary to address issues of systemic injustice in the communities they serve and of which they are a part.
Praise for Grassroots Engagement and Social Justice through Cooperative Extension (Transformations in Higher Education)
“This book documents why and how Extension must change its approach to community outreach and education by adopting the role of co-convener, partner, and facilitator—serving with intellectual humility as we co-create solutions for a better world in which all are recognized, equitably included, and honored.”
—BRIAN RAISON, associate professor, Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership, and OSU Extension field specialist, Ohio State University