Dr. Sumittra Surartdecha Research Institute for Languages and Cultures of Asia, Mahidol University
The present study is an ethnographic study of the local community involvement in the initiation and implementation of multicultural curriculum in a Black Tai community. By examining ways in which such curriculum has been initiated and subsequently implemented, the paper claims that the ethnic revival movement is generated by national policies on post-cold war localism, casting off historical stigma of Laoness. Provincial recognition brings about refurbished ethnic identity, upward social mobility as well as economic benefits. By considering its impacts on the local students, the paper suggests that such curriculum can be a means to promote better understanding among different ethnic groups in the community. The acknowledgment of ethnic languages and cultures in education can help reduce prejudice in public sphere.