Counternarratives of Pain and Suffering as Critical Pedagogy

"True to the central understandings of critical pedagogy as conceived by Freire, Darder, Steinberg, and Giroux, among others, this collection of truly engaging essays, moves from a critical analysis of contemporary educational problematiques to meaningful possibilities of change with hope. The new generation of critical pedagogues represented here, focus on pain, suffering and trauma, and yet, skilfully and subversively construct a pedagogy based on a counter-narrative- one that is so much needed in present neoliberal, fatalist, and pandemic times. The emotive, rational, and poetic are very positively intertwined to offer a strong and courageous voice to a renewed form of critical pedagogy." ⁠— John P. Portelli, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto

"Weaved throughout Counternarratives of Pain and Suffering as Critical Pedagogy are powerful stories of triumph that disrupt discursive practices in educational contexts. The book amplifies the voices of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and offers analyses of lived experiences negotiating identities, resisting oppression, and confronting stereotypes. Readers are invited to break through the cycle of silence and consider who benefits when dominant ideologies are not challenged. Connected to current social landscapes, the book offers a pedagogical framework of hope, possibilities, and resiliency to achieve transformational change and affirms the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic spaces." ⁠— Gaëtane Jean-Marie, Ph.D., Dean and Professor of Educational Leadership, College of Education, Rowan University

"Eizadirad, Campbell, and Sider offer a timely and necessary salve to historical and ongoing wounds of pain, trauma, and suffering. Their book reveals confessions as truth-telling that narrate emotional, physical, and spiritual injuries inflicted by oppression as well as individual and collective acts of resistance, resilience, care, and compassion. Each chapter unfolds counter-narratives that are difficult to read, yet we need to bear their lessons to not only survive but also thrive. For our well-being and critical solidarity, this book is a compelling read in these challenging times!" ⁠— Roland Sintos Coloma, Ph.D., Professor, Division of Teacher Education, Wayne State University

"This volume provides a rare opportunity to reflect on one’s narrative of pain and suffering from a theoretical standpoint. As the editor’s state: "We encourage you to reflect on your own life and experiences to begin constructively engaging with your own pain, suffering, and trauma." Each chapter is unique and has a specific message for the reader. No one reading this book can escape the importance of interrogating the institutional, structural, and societal visible and invisible ways that inflict pain and suffering. The chapters interweave complex and systemic ways that pain finds spaces and bodies to manifest itself and re-appear in different forms in the life of individuals. This is the first time I have a read a book that articulates engaging with pain, suffering, and trauma so well and constructively. This unique book is a must read for all of us!" ⁠— Njoki Wane, PhD., Professor and Chair of Social Justice Education Department, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto