Teacher Tea
Reframing Gossip: A Latina Perspective
Idalia Nuñez, Mónica González Ybarra, Catherine Dornfeld Tissenbaum, and Brian Acosta examine the role of "chisme" (gossip) in the lives of Latina middle school girls. Their article, “Yo! Chisme Is Good! Latina/x Girls’ Cultivando Confianza in an After-School Program,” appears in Teachers College Record. They argue that "chisme" is a powerful literacy practice that helps girls build trust, share experiences, and even resist oppression. The authors conducted a study in an after-school program where they observed how Latina students engaged with "chisme"" and other forms of social exchange. They found that "chisme" allowed girls to establish trust and challenge societal expectations. The article concludes that recognizing and valuing "chisme" are legitimate literacy practices, and it calls for educators to create spaces where Latina students can engage in "chisme" and other culturally relevant practices.
Gossip, or the culturally specific “chisme,” can be a powerful tool for social interaction, community building, and cultural expression. Gossip can also reveal important information about students' social dynamics and challenges. Understanding the role of gossip in Latina students' lives can help teachers create more culturally responsive learning environments.
How do we encourage literacy, both social and academic, in all students, regardless of their background? The answer may vary depending on gender, cultural context, and age group.