DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION EDUCATION SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
More than 20 of the United States have proposed billsthat would restrict what students can and cannot learn about the role of enslavement in US history and the ongoing impacts of racism in America. Many state representatives are attempting to create a culture of unsubstantiated fear and apprehension that schools are becoming places of indoctrination.
The work of public schools helps raise student awareness of how policies can shape their life outcomes and how they, too, can recognize and challenge all systems of oppression that impact various groups.
Centering students of color in curriculum and policy development does not teach white students to hate themselves and their country. Educators are talented professionals who teach students of all ages and all identities to engage with deeply complicated material in age-appropriate ways that encourage thoughtful and respectful discourse. When white students learn about historic oppression, they learn to connect the collective impact of generational privilege to their personal role in making schools, communities, and the nation a place where everyone has an equitable opportunity to thrive.
Speaking about the impacts of race and racism is not inherently racist, and not talking about racism doesn’t make it disappear.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion education should be included in public schools. (2021, 5 julio). BostonGlobe.Com.