Challenging the Colonialism in World Language-Learner Literature: Paths for Writing Toward Respectful Interculturality

“As language and culture instructors and practitioners, we believe that this book is an essential offering to the world language community to step away from its comfort zone by incorporating anti-racist practices. This book also helps us not only to connect to other literary works, but also to produce literature that will endure the test of time. The authors offer us tangible tools to begin the essential work of introspection, positive change, and anti-racism.” – Dr. Krishauna Hines-Gaither, Guilford College & Dr. Cecile Accilien, Kennesaw State UniversityIn this current historical moment, many authors and publishers face questions about how to create books with authentic representations of literary characters from different identities. In the field of world language education, many teacher-authors, particularly if they are not members of the cultures that speak the languages they teach, are asking: “If I honor the #OwnVoices movement, where is there space for my own creativity?” In response, the Staying in Our Lanes Project believes: Every voice is essential. We all have a place from which to write. We can do better on how we make space for all voices. This book articulates models for writing that make space for everyone’s voice, and addresses the urgent need for a more respectful interculturality in world language-learner literature.