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Dance programming as social justice: a critical literature review
Thesis   Open access

Dance programming as social justice: a critical literature review

Angela C. Pan
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Jun 2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001505
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Pan_Angela_2021382.13 kBDownloadView

Abstract

Dance therapy Movement therapy Minority youth--Mental health Minority youth--Services for
The stratification of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) children leads to adversities and disparities for this vulnerable population. This paper examines these at-risk youths' needs and identifies mental health problems caused by intergenerational racism and poverty that may improve with intervention. Dance/movement therapy (DMT) can act as an intervention for BIPOC children. Previous research posits DMT can help at-risk youth build resilience and manage chronic stress, and that implementing earlier intervention programs are more effective in achieving these outcomes. Not only can DMT improve individuals' well-being, dance-based interventions can also address social justice issues at a greater systemic level. When consciously catered to the needs of disadvantaged populations, these programs are anti-oppressive and culturally sensitive. The goals of this paper are to raise awareness that (1) children with compiled, disadvantaged backgrounds are vulnerable, at-risk populations in need of mental health interventions; (2) dance-based interventions are able to augment children's mental health and development by building and providing protective factors that promote resilience; (3) anti-oppressive, culturally responsive leadership techniques designed to support children with marginalized and disadvantaged backgrounds; and (4) accessible dance programming and DMT are modes of equity. Lastly, a live virtual presentation with the nonprofit organization Movement Exchange is planned in order to support their grant writing, funding, recruitment, program development, and members' education.

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