Threads of Cariño: An Evocative Autoethnography of Vulnerability in Literacy Leadership

In this autoethnography, I narrate and analyze my journey of understanding Cariño pedagogy, a framework of centering heart work and caring with learning occurring with and from students (Pearson et al., 2021), through a close introspection of lived experiences. A secondary exploration is how I use reflective teaching as “an act of love and courage” (Oldenski, 2002, 4) while placing Cariño pedagogy at the forefront of language and literacy practices. The study seeks the possibilities of linking autoethnography as a method of inquiry that catalyzes transformational teaching methods in community-based language and literacy classes through the lens of Cariño pedagogy. As a result, my experiences are narrated and analyzed. My primary data collection tools include personal memories, field notes, reflections, and external data such as artifacts and photos. This research discovered ways to walk alongside and support researchers, faith-based community educators, and teacher candidates across disciplines. The research advocated for teachers as learners using a lens of cariño pedagogy.