It takes more than good intentions to make meaningful change The "spirit slashing" of injustice: that's what Veronica McDermott calls the psychic toll that marginalized students face every day. Students can be marginalized because of race, economic status, language, sexual orientation, ability, or other factors. So how can you make a difference? McDermott, a longtime educator, gives you the tools to become a powerful ally. You'll learn how to: Better understand the depth and breadth of injustice so you can pierce the fog of privilege and embrace ally-hood Fill the gap between your desire to eliminate injustice and the attitudes and skills required to be effective Leverage your natural strengths, including your disposition, educational training, and professional position Challenge the structural barriers, practices and beliefs that diminish opportunities for many students Working for social justice is a journey, and it's one that you—and your students— can take together. "Educators will find in this book a heart-felt, honest, uncompromising tour de force." —Yvette Jackson, Senior Scholar National Urban Alliance for Effective Education "This book illuminates a clear pathway for transforming our consciousness and our practice in the service of equity and social justice." —Gary Howard, Author of We Can't Lead Where We Won't Go