WEEK 1
IN THIS LESSON
Video:
Video Module 2 — Why the Toolkit Exists
Lesson Description:
This lesson explains why the toolkit is necessary. It grounds the work in reality rather than fantasy and introduces the course’s central belief: Black communities must own, define, and protect our stories on our own terms.
Key Ideas:
The toolkit exists because fieldwork has real consequences.
Good intentions are not enough.
Preparation protects communities.
Ethical fieldwork requires humility.
Black stories must be owned and defined by Black communities.
Required Reading:
Gary Alan Fine, “Ten Lies of Ethnography: Moral Dilemmas of Field Research”
Workbook Reflection:
Why does fieldwork need a toolkit before anyone enters the field?
Applied Exercise:
Write a short personal statement beginning with:
“Before I enter the field, I must prepare myself to…”
Lesson Outcome:
Participants will understand why ethical fieldwork requires preparation, humility, and accountability.
