Diversity is something that can separate people from one another. But without diversity in this world, everyone would be the same, everyone would act the same, think the same, and do things the same. Even though people disagree with what other people might think because they are a different gender, or have a different religion or, a different ethnic group, they also help us see things from different perspectives. Like the crayons, they help in the big picture to bring everything together and help things run smoothly. At the end of the day, all of the crayons have their own place in the box and they are all part of a set that goes together. The same as every person has a place in their community on this planet.
After school, I went to the Starbucks website and downloaded their Third Place curriculum. Here’s my take:
- By starting with the assumption that anyone who walks through the doorway is a customer, the perspective of Starbucks changes. What can that mean for our schools or other communities to which we belong?
- Many of the pieces in the bias training are adaptable for the classroom, especially the powerful reflection pieces. How do I need to reflect on my own bias?
- Challenging students or members of a social club to make their own videos to explain why bias is such a concern might be worth the time.
- Role playing, as baristas did Tuesday, acceptable ways to address conversations that are disrespectful is a powerful idea. It’s not new. John Lewis speaks of the disciplined result of role playing that was part of his preparation during the civil rights movement. How might we use this in our communities?
As my own school year is winding down, I’m reminded of the work accomplished in my school, and the work yet to be done. One thing I do know is that the visibility that is coming to our conversations is a critical piece. Processing the lack of equity in this country is a process. Bigotry wasn’t stopped because one show went off the air, and frankly, it’s all over the airwaves. Difficult conversations must continue if we ever hope to create welcoming schools that are places where students feel respected and valued.
Infographic courtesy of Molly and Kaylie
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Author
Marcia Powell
Equity matters. Believer in the value of thoughtful change. Thinker. Speaking my truth.
Areas of interest: equity, diversity, gifted needs, online education, science, computers, social studies and cultural impacts
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