By Todd Gazda, CommonWealth, August 31, 2021
ONE CANNOT HELP but be troubled by the events that have transpired across our country over the past few years. The high-profile instances of racism and racial violence we’ve experienced are merely the most recent of in a string of discrimination and injustice brought about by the deeply imbedded systemic racism, violence, and inequity still prevalent in our society today. These incidents dramatically underscore the fact that a substantial amount of work remains to be done for our society to address these issues.
Educators are charged, at least in part, with the responsibility for teaching our students about the ideals and values of our society. In today’s politically polarized environment it is more important than ever to clearly articulate what we stand for. Do we stand against racism, inequity, and oppression regardless of our political affiliation, or will we let polarization keep us from taking the necessary action to end racism and discrimination now? This matter transcends politics and political parties, and how we proceed from this point is a reflection of who we are as a people.
We must move past words and take the action to remove racism, bias, and discrimination, both conscious and unconscious, from our institutions. We need to have difficult conversations, examine our practices, and encourage Black, Indigenous and people of color from a diversity of backgrounds to enter the teaching ranks. It is time for us to come together, understand our differences, and work together for change.
Comments (0)