Rema Vassar and the Mission of Centering Black Children in Education (CBCE)

Dr. Rema Vassar is a leading advocate for equity in education, particularly in ensuring that Black children are at the center of academic discourse and policymaking. Through the Centering Black Children in Education (CBCE) initiative, she challenges systemic biases that have historically marginalized Black students and works to create an inclusive, affirming, and empowering educational experience for them.

The Need to Center Black Children in Education

At the core of CBCE is a fundamental question: Why not center Black children? Dr. Vassar has consistently confronted this issue, encouraging people to reflect on why such a question arises in the first place. She argues that skepticism about centering Black students stems from an implicit focus on whiteness and an underlying anti-Black bias in educational spaces. Schools have traditionally been structured in ways that exclude or diminish Black children’s experiences, and CBCE aims to change that narrative.

Black students have long demonstrated resilience, intelligence, and talent. Still, they continue to face barriers such as disproportionate disciplinary actions, lack of representation in leadership roles, and an educational curriculum that often overlooks their cultural contributions. Dr. Vassar insists that shifting this focus is not only necessary but overdue.

CBCE’s Annual Conference: A Platform for Change

One of the primary ways CBCE fosters change is through its annual virtual conference, which has been held since 2021. The conference is free and accessible to educators, scholars, and community members worldwide, providing a space to discuss critical issues affecting Black students. Topics range from the impact of discipline policies and school desegregation to leadership development and systemic transformation.

CBCE’s conference challenges dominant narratives in education, urging participants to reconsider how success is defined and measured for Black children. Rather than conforming to traditional academic benchmarks that may not account for cultural diversity, CBCE pushes for new frameworks that recognize and nurture Black excellence.

Creating Systemic Change in Education

Dr. Vassar emphasizes that education should not only include Black children but actively prioritize their needs, experiences, and voices. She calls for:

1. Culturally Relevant Curricula – Schools must incorporate materials that reflect Black history, culture, and contributions beyond limited discussions of oppression. This includes literature, historical perspectives, and role models that resonate with Black students.
2. Policy Reforms – Addressing systemic biases in discipline policies and ensuring Black students have equitable access to advanced placement programs, leadership opportunities, and resources.
3. Educator Training – Teachers and administrators must continuously learn about race, equity, and culturally responsive teaching.
4. Community Involvement – Encouraging parents, activists, and organizations to participate in shaping school policies and educational strategies.

CBCE does not only focus on identifying problems; it offers tangible solutions to create a more just and empowering educational system for Black children.

The Role of Radical Love and Resistance

Dr. Vassar frames CBCE’s mission within radical love and resistance—an approach that demands a complete transformation of how Black children are treated in education. This philosophy encourages self-advocacy, challenges harmful narratives, and pushes for an educational system that does not merely tolerate Black students but celebrates and uplifts them【34】.

By continuously pushing for equity, fostering community dialogue, and leading transformative initiatives, Dr. Rema Vassar and CBCE are reshaping the landscape of education for Black children.