6/17 Two Article Summaries.

 Deconstructing Privilege   Teaching and Learning as Allies in the Classroom  Colorblindness in the New Racism

By Margalynne J. Armstrong and Stephanie M. Wildman


The authors in this article point out that the terms we create to address certain racial inequality concerns are in fact more hurtful than helpful.  Saying that "I", "We" or "Us" do not see color therefore suggesting the impossibility of being racist.  While not considering yourself as a part of the problem we are learning in research that we are all a part of the problem whether it is intentional or unintentional.  We cannot claim to be colorblind because that just REALLY means that we are not addressing that there are differences in the quality of living based on color.  So the next time you hear a person say I am not racist I do not see color, gently remind them that seeing color is the only way to treat color as human being who deserve everything this Country promises.

The Academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies

By Christine E. Sleeter

We learn best when we can relate to something. We learn best when we feel seen and heard.  Getting to this point may take some extra work, Ethnic studies in education is making sure that all students see themselves in what they learn.  Seeing yourself can be literal in terms of race, gender, identity and religion.  At the elementary age students are curious about how people "fit" in this world both in careers and higher education.  We need to make space for students to learn the truth about how they weave into the existence of America.  We are all a part of the evolution of this Country.  We all have a past of how we "relate" to America.   Students are more eager to not only learn when they understand their own cultural existence, but how to continue to develop into a diverse Nation that will lead in showing how to be a true melting pot of great ingredients that in the end make a healthy stew.  Schools should be allowed to expand on the culture education of what makes up their community and allow "anyone" to join and learn what makes each culture beautiful.