“We all should rise above the clouds of ignorance, narrowness and selfishness."
—Booker T. Washington
Once again, the severity and prevalence of racism and discrimination in America has exploded into the public’s consciousness, and this time it’s focused on our sisters and brothers in the Asian American and Pacific Islanders community.
Outrageously, since the pandemic began a year ago, our nation has witnessed a sharp increase in the violence, harassment and hate targeting Asian Americans. The attacks in Atlanta last week were just the latest and most horrifying events in a string of painful incidents.
All of us must stand together against anti-Asian racism.
While the nation is riveted to this horrific story, we must remember that racism is a daily part of American life. As educators, we must not only speak out against it, but we must also teach the next generation that all people are of equal value and deserving of our respect.
For years we have advocated for expanding the teaching of tolerance, social justice and civics in our classrooms. Now more than ever, we must redouble our efforts to instill in young people the value of respect, and an understanding and appreciation for the diversity that is America.
We know that white supremacy and gender violence across the country has been increasing over the past few years, and it is time to confront the topics head on and call it what it is, “bigotry.”
We also know hate and racism have no place in our schools, in our communities or in our country. As educators, we have a special duty—and opportunity—to not only protect all of our students, but also to help guide them onto a path that leads to a society that finally rids itself of the scourge of racism.
Here are a few resources to use in your schools and communities to help start the teaching and healing process: