Overview
- This week Black Californians United for Early Care & Education (BlackECE) intensified a campaign that includes a published 10-point policy agenda and new webinars, trainings and a knowledge brief aimed at preschool teachers.
- The group wants African American Vernacular English, often called AAVE or Black English, treated like other home languages in early education so children’s identities are affirmed and their language strengths are used to teach literacy.
- Advocates point to research showing teacher familiarity or training improves views of AAVE and say formal recognition would prompt workforce training and classroom supports similar to those for dual‑language learners.
- There is broad media attention and political debate but no sign that California has formally changed its Master Plan for Early Learning and Care to include AAVE; the proposal also links to reparative measures for Black children, families and workers.
- California’s 2020 Master Plan already promotes early bilingual support, and supporters say adding AAVE would extend that framework to a group long stigmatized in schools and could reduce shame and pressure to code‑switch for young Black children.