Chapter 12: Strategies and Interventions for White School Counselors Working with African American Male Students

In the above quote, Dr. King acknowledges the good intentions of White individuals who believe in “equal access to public facilities” yet do not extend themselves intellectually or empathically by taking action toward manifesting equitable dispositions. Accordingly, many White professional school counselors have wonderfully altruistic ideals regarding their work with African American male students. However, effective school counseling requires substance behind intent, it requires competency, and most importantly it requires action. By taking intentional action steps toward social justice, White school counselors can emerge as racial justice allies with their African American male students. However, this process requires increased social awareness, self awareness, and counselor competence to help navigate the complex obstacles faced by African American male students.