A critical whiteness exploration of the National FFA Organization

Abstract

The FFA for All campaign from the National FFA Organization represents an important step for diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the youth organization. The challenge of making the FFA more inclusive for diverse students presents question for investigation. What elements within the FFA represented barriers to people of color from participating in the FFA? This study utilized a framework of Critical Whiteness Studies to explore how the traditions and ritual of the FFA manifest Whiteness. Traditions and ritual of the FFA were chosen as data sets as these activities are codified as potentially routine activities for all FFA chapters and members. The study found that Whiteness appeared in a variety of the FFA rituals and traditions, including the FFA Creed, FFA Opening Ceremonies, and FFA Award Systems. Whiteness emerged through the concept of meritocracy as well as the ideological representations found with the FFA rituals and traditions. These elements of Whiteness may help explain why students of color have not been equally represented in the FFA as White students. The study concludes with recommendations for action for making the FFA diverse, equitable, and inclusive for all students to fulfill the promises of the FFA for All campaign.