Relevance of Baldwin’s ‘Talk to Teachers’ Today (Essay Sample)

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Baldwin’s ‘Talk to Teachers’ is just as Relevant Today
Different historical events have contributed to the severity of contemporary conflicts facing our nation, more so in the education sector. Today, as James Baldwin proclaims in his 1963 speech "A Talk to Teachers,” educators have to critically evaluate the role education plays in society, as well as its responsibility. He emphasizes that educator’s have a duty to confront racism in America and empowering Black students in the fight for racial justice. An effective education system should prepare students to become active leaders and citizens in their democracy, advocating for change in situations of inequity and injustice. It is true that education is of paradox in that, however much one gets to develop consciousness and ability to make personal sound decisions, the society is often opposed to accommodate such individuals. Most societies require citizens who conform to rules and compliance; “What societies really, ideally, want is a citizenry which will simply obey the rules of society_ Line 11 of the second paragraph”.
Baldwin’s speech alludes to defects in the system of education as of addressing racial segregation in America. Based on a contemporary reflection on the ideas presented by Baldwin in his essay, it is arguable that educators have an obligation to dismantling various systems and structures of oppression. As Baldwin puts it, “The obligation of anyone who thinks himself as responsible is to examine society and try to change it – at no matter what risk. This is the only hope society has. This is the only way societies change_ line 13 of the second paragraph.”
For instance, racial segregation has been a common theme in America's history, with police brutality being a prominent problem in the 21st century. Notable tragedies in recent months include the deaths of George Floyd, Elijah McClain, and Breonna Taylor. Therefore, an effective system of education should include extensive mechanisms in response to violence, racial segregation and oppression. Approaches such as a liberal arts approach, that better positioned African Americans for political leadership or agriculture and industrialization to improve rural life abound to effective elements of effective education.
Further, by abolishing Compliance-oriented educational objectives, education should produce autonomous subjects as opposed to creating compliance. Baldwin’s idea for sound education emanates from preexisting demands for education for African Americans that recognize education's role in confronting oppression in society. Therefore, he asserts that critical education must challenge its contribution in socializing inferiority and compliance.