Chapter 12: The Critical Role of Black Religious Institutions in The Education of African Americans

Historically, religious institutions around the globe have played an important role in the moral and academic education of children. And Black churches in America have in the past and continue to play a critical role in the moral, academic and social development of Black youth in their struggle for equitable educational opportunities. Research indicates that Black youth face a number of challenges in the classroom which must be addressed if their educational and moral development is to be positively impacted. Those challenges arise out of the complex and diverse social, cultural, and economic exigencies they face, exigencies which confront contemporary Black congregations with a challenging set of demands if they are to meet the spiritual, social and material needs facing Black children and youth. However, most agree that there is no one solution or institution that is capable of resolving all the complexities and challenges facing the spiritual development and equitable education of Black youth. These issues must be addressed comprehensively through linkages of productive collaborations between churches, community organizations and government entities. This article examines the complexities and challenges of forging collaborative partnerships focused on the education, moral leadership and character development of Black youth; highlights several successful collaborative efforts headed by Black religious institutions; and shares a case study of the programs instituted by one small inner-city Black church.