Negotiating a Perilous EmpowermentIn many parts of Appalachia, family ties run deep, constituting an important part of an individuals sense of self. In some cases, when Appalachian learners seek new forms of knowledge, those family ties can be challenged by the accusation that they have gotten above their raisings, a charge that can have a lasting impact on family and community acceptance. Those who advocate literacy sometimes ignore an important fact although empowering, newly