Welcome to the #rethink_learning chat! Today’s topic is Social Justice Part 2.
Please Introduce Yourself!
Tell us your name, role, location, and share a gif, photo, or quote that represents social justice.
Welcome to the #rethink_learning chat! Today’s topic is Social Justice Part 2.
Please Introduce Yourself!
Tell us your name, role, location, and share a gif, photo, or quote that represents social justice.
Hi Everyone! I'm Barbara from Oakland, CA where it is sunny and just hailed. Crazy weather. I'm co-host of #rethink_learning chat. I also host a podcast, Conversations on Learning. I'm looking forward to this chat.
Q1. When we talk about bias, prejudice, and racism, what are the actionable steps and strategies we can address related to white privilege, colonialism, and the histories of marginalized people? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Q1. When we talk about bias, prejudice, and racism, what are the actionable steps and strategies we can address related to white privilege, colonialism, and the histories of marginalized people? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Tough question. I think one step is to listen, deeply, without an agenda. To not make excuses, to not rationalize, but to simply experience in the moment by truly hearing what others have to say. #rethink_learning
Q1. When we talk about bias, prejudice, and racism, what are the actionable steps and strategies we can address related to white privilege, colonialism, and the histories of marginalized people? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A1: I didn't realize that I was privileged until I worked with the kids in Oakland USD. I didn't understand what it was like for the kids. It's time for all of us to have these real conversations looking at what bias and prejudice really means. #rethink_learning#socialjustice
As a math teacher it is important for me to be aware of and promote mathematicians that are not European and may have discovered an idea long before the guy it’s named after in our math canon. #rethink_learning
A1 - We have to start with having honest conversations that acknowledges the existence of white privilege by those who benefit. We can’t move if the benefactors shut down when their privilege is an advantage over others and it’s called out #equity#socialjustice#rethink_learning
A1: ppl need to be educated about their histories and stories, intent vs impact, the biases, assumptions, and stereotypes we hold. Read, talk, ask the tough Qs. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. #rethink_learning
A1 Actionable steps & strategies towards social just:
✔ Acknowledging
✔ Being open
✔ Being educated in this area
✔ Listening to narratives
✔ Really hearing difficult truths
✔ Viewing & hearing other perspectives
✔ Actioning inequities
#rethink_learning
A1 checking microagressions at the door. Refraining from dog whistle responses when uncomfortable or challenged. Knowing when to be quiet #rethink_learning
A1~
~advocacy efforts at local, state, & above
~when you experience exclusion, address it immediately in a way that you are comfortable with
~talk about biases open&honestly
~teach your Ss how to advocate for themselves&others by using words to heal not harm
#rethink_learning
A1: also it's not about blame or shame but rather moving forward; how can and do we address the systemic barriers in place for marginalized people? Look at the intersectionality of ppl - plays a huge role in their identity! #rethink_learning
A1 Never assume you are not privileged, or racist or that you haven't been in the past. I try to be sensitive but I know I have a lot to learn #rethink_learning
also lots of ways to integrate #socialjustice into math - examining patterns and data of various marginalized groups...I have had great successes with my Ss. #rethink_learning
Q2: Why is it our personal and moral responsibility as educators to have meaningful conversations that bring social justice to light and to take action against institutional inequities? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
It's really important to unpack bias & prejudice across all aspects of the education we offer in our schools from policies to curriculum to programs to support #rethink_learning
A1: I started id'ing myself as a POC more than ever ca. Nov 2016( or the year before that I guess). It's about growth opportunities Is everyone afforded the same opportunities? How can one grow if they aren't asked to take on roles outside of their typical role? #rethink_learning
A1: When I used to work in politics one of things we would always say was that we wanted as big of a tent as possible. And so even with folks who didn't "get it" I would try to assume the best of intentions while politely conversing with them. #rethink_learning
this is one area also where representation matters too. If I do not see other accomplished mathematicians that look like me how can I see that same success in myself #rethink_learning
Hard to answer this in one tweet, but it starts with looking inward. For white people, acknowledge white supremacy and a worldview based on whiteness. We’ll get nowhere without facing the truth. #rethink_learning A1
Q1. When we talk about bias, prejudice, and racism, what are the actionable steps and strategies we can address related to white privilege, colonialism, and the histories of marginalized people? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
I think it is hard, but necessary, to not jump to conclusions, and accept discomfort. Doing what's right, having honest conversations, can push us out of our comfort zone and we need to be okay with that. From discomfort can come deep thought and growth. #rethink_learning
A2: We need to review what we are teaching our children. The idea of colonialism and institutional inequities means we taught bias and even lied to our kids. We need to rethink what resources we can share, discussions we can have. #rethink_learning#socialjustice
I’m thinking about the 2nd item. When you experience exclusion, it’s not easy to addresss it right away. Exclusion doesn’t happen where power disparity isn’t real. Much risk is involved when knocking on the ivory tower door. #rethink_learning
A2 Education is a human right for all (UN Convention Rights of the Child)
Therefore as educators it's up to us to address all inequities as we need to ensure that all our children have access to a fair, equitable & just education - if we don't who will???
#rethink_learning
of course! I was just extending the idea in terms of relating it directly to math learning. It's just like in literacy where I ensured that Ss saw themselves represented in books,articles,& magazines. The same goes for math. I did quite a bit of history in math #rethink_learning
A2: Because social justice and student achievement can go hand-in-hand. By leading on this issue, educators can help to reduce marginalization in schools. #rethink_learning
A2 - In an old fashion way of thinking, we as educators are still the moral compasses of the world. We inherited the responsibilty to bring change to others. When we change children, we change the world. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A1: To understand white privilege I believe that you have to open your heart and eyes to reality around you. Ask questions and be sensitive, never make assumptions. #rethink_learning
A2 What we are teaching and doing in the classroom may be insensitive and we don't even realize it. We can't pretend to know everything and that the way issues have been taught in the past is necessarily correct. #rethink_learning
Not being a professional educator, I don’t want to point the responsibility at others except to say that partnering with families, who come in all colors, demonstrates seeing everyone as one tribe. Schools should host community forums for deep discussion. #rethink_learning A2
Q2: Why is it our personal and moral responsibility as educators to have meaningful conversations that bring social justice to light and to take action against institutional inequities? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A2: important to have these convos so we can purposefully embed these issues in our teaching & learning - many Ss were shocked when they learned of residential schools, black history, & other discriminatory treatment for racialized peoples #rethink_learning
Q2: Why is it our personal and moral responsibility as educators to have meaningful conversations that bring social justice to light and to take action against institutional inequities? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A2: Only by shining a light on systemic and institutional inequalities can there be any change. By having conversations about these things we help Ss realize how much innate power they have to create movements and ultimately help create change. #rethink_learning
Social justice must always be rooted in individual justice. It may require balance and more prudence than is commonly practiced. But it is important to see the big picture as it relates to entire peoples. See the forest AND the trees. #rethink_learning
We were brought up in a society that didn't teacher us to realize that we were teaching inequity and bias. These conversations need to happen earlier. NOW! #rethink_learning
A2 - In an old fashion way of thinking, we as educators are still the moral compasses of the world. We inherited the responsibilty to bring change to others. When we change children, we change the world. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A2: We have to listen, observe, and be willing to be real and vulnerable. Support students. Present issues from multiple perspectives and use authentic sources. #rethink_learning
Q3a. How do we make sure equity work in schools involves shifting power, resources, access, and opportunities to underserved and under supported groups? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice - (we have 2 questions for #3)
A1: It is my opinion that lookism includes skin. I know of teachers who focus on the way kids look, pointing out "cute" ones and attractive parents, etc. I try to focus on merit, what the kids do, and how they act. #rethink_learning
A2: we have to know our Ss; build relationships, get to know them & their stories, let parents in and examine histories & issues from diff perspectives - it's more than just one voice/story #rethink_learning
A3a. We need to have these conversations in school, in our homes, with parents, and the community. It's about being real in what school has become and change it. We cannot continue to teach bias, prejudice, and racism anymore. #rethink_learning#socialjustice
Never stop speaking up for under supported groups. Better - allow them to speak up for themselves, and know that you are a person in the room who has their back. #rethink_learning
Q3a. How do we make sure equity work in schools involves shifting power, resources, access, and opportunities to underserved and under supported groups? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice - (we have 2 questions for #3)
What comes with more risk or penalty for adults? Not holding these conversations or holding one poorly?
That may be why many choose to avoid the convo all together. #rethink_learning
A3a I'm wondering whether:
Do admin discuss this issue?
Do teachers discuss this when they plan?
Do admin/teachers evaluate their schools?
Do admin take this into their school community to discuss?
Do parents and families contribute to these conversations?
#rethink_learning
Q3a. How do we make sure equity work in schools involves shifting power, resources, access, and opportunities to underserved and under supported groups? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice - (we have 2 questions for #3)
Yes, society has done this, celebrates the wrong things. We need to focus on who each person, each child is and celebrate them as they are. Thank you @MrWeimann#rethink_learning
A3: It is not a level playing field and not every student is going to have the same needs all the time. Dismantle the myth of meritocracy, remove "standardized" barriers, #rethink_learning
Q3b. We may not even know we are complicit or biased around the institutional inequities. Why do we need to identify and address the white savior complex that we see FAR too often in schools/districts now? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A3 always asking a few simple questions
Would I want this for my kid?
Would allow this to be said if it were my kid?
Would I accept this as a standard if it were my kid?
Would this be enough if it were my kid? #rethink_learning
A3a: I think an emphasis on solid knowledge based curriculum goes a long way here. I would be wary of just throwing technology or other expensive programs at this issue. #rethink_learning
Q3b. We may not even know we are complicit or biased around the institutional inequities. Why do we need to identify and address the white savior complex that we see FAR too often in schools/districts now? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Can’t give up on recruiting/maintaining educators of color. Every single one makes a difference and research proves it. On equity, the white power structure has to be willing to relinquish some—and let kids of color catch up by letting them progress faster. #rethink_learning A3a
Q3a. How do we make sure equity work in schools involves shifting power, resources, access, and opportunities to underserved and under supported groups? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice - (we have 2 questions for #3)
Great point and question. This is where I usually respond with "you're an educator, it's time to do the work" otherwise the excuses will continue to be the barrier #rethink_learning
A3a: This has to start with school funding formulas, which in most states haven't been updated in decades. There are too many that still employ a regressive approach to how dollars are allocated https://t.co/n5oeXr57Ye#rethink_learning
A2~
~Teachers have the privilege of educating the future & Ss deserve the best learning experiences that support their growth in all areas ~ socially, academically & humanly possible so they can live & thrive in this 🌎 in a caring & compassionate way
#rethink_learning
A2:"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." - MLK Jr. We need to better at being upstanders. This is how we all get justice. #rethink_learning
Q2. When you are in a positioning power, with that comes responsibility to facilitate voice for those whose voices are suppressed and to reassure the balance to power inequity #rethink_learning
A strategy that I use is to identify terminology that is aligned with constructive dialogue rather than destructive. Also listen to learn and not simply to respond. #rethink_learning
A3a - Those of us that recognize the inequalities must continue to speak it and bring others along. Some will come (like those of us involved in this chat) and others will fight the idea. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A3b. I was at @EduCon in a session talking about #whiteness. One educator who immigrated from France said he never had to check a box on what race he was in Europe. Why do we continue to label, point, separate when all of us are human? #rethink_learning
Because that complex has been around forever and it’s not changing systemic inequities. Changing the system does. Changing the leadership does. #rethink_learning A3b
Q3b. We may not even know we are complicit or biased around the institutional inequities. Why do we need to identify and address the white savior complex that we see FAR too often in schools/districts now? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
A3: At some point individuals and events need to be held accountable for perpetuating and amplifying that narrative. I keep seeing it over and over and over #rethink_learning
A3a I'm wondering whether:
Do admin discuss this issue?
Do teachers discuss this when they plan?
Do admin/teachers evaluate their schools?
Do admin take this into their school community to discuss?
Do parents and families contribute to these conversations?
#rethink_learning
Q3a. How do we make sure equity work in schools involves shifting power, resources, access, and opportunities to underserved and under supported groups? #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice - (we have 2 questions for #3)
I'm amazed at the discussions happening in #rethink_learning. We need these-- more of these convos around #SocialJustice. Please make sure you follow everyone in this chat today. Awesome educators!!!
A1 @bbray27 this one is content for a chat in and of itself. This would be a good one to have those who have experienced it voice what they believe should be done. #rethink_learning
A3b I've not worked on your side of the world but in Australia we have our histories & issues in indigenous education which needs to be addressed #equityhttps://t.co/vORGDA5BzY
Closing the gap on Indigenous education must start with commitment and respect
#rethink_learning
you def need a safe space for these convos to happen, set norms, ask Qs, listen - you need a skilled facilitator to navigate these convos. #rethink_learning
I almost feel like there should be an additional level to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs that goes beyond Self Actualisation #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Please be aware on the use of that term "Safe space." It is another fragility tactic. Same for whom? Who sets the rules? Who determines the parameters? When is it not safe for a white teacher versus one that looks like me? #rethink_learning
In reply to
@raspberryberet3, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY
A3b - I don’t think you can properly address the white savior complex until you have the acknowledgements the white privilege concept. That privilege frames anyone different as in need of “saving”. Being different doesn’t mean I’m not human. #rethink_learning
A3: When working with diverse populations I think that we have a tendency to make assumptions about parent’s comfort level interacting with school, language barriers, etc. We need to listen & learn. #rethink_learning
Maslow's Heirarchy is a by-product of a social injustice. He appropriated it from the indigenous peoples in the Dakotas and Souther Alberta. I saw posts on it by Professors several months ago #rethink_learning
I agree. I'm appalled at schools and districts that are all female in elementary and all male in secondary, not to mention zero educators that are not white. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
This is one ? I have wrestled with over the last yr: Best teacher or diverse?
We need to think of these questions. I've used the term "safe space" and didn't realize what I was saying and how it meant something different for someone who doesn't look like me. Thank you @k_shelton Needed this convo #rethink_learning
In reply to
@k_shelton, @raspberryberet3, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY, @k_shelton
That is very true and is a battle the individual has to make a determination on. Certainly NOT at the expense of your job or even your sanity #rethink_learning
Also we have a tendency to make assumptions of their commitment to their children's education - we need to think of different ways of engaging diverse populations in our schools #rethink_learning
Thanks for everyone for joining #rethink_learning tonight - a great conversation on #socialjustice - thanks to my co-host @bbray and guest host @k_shelton! Don't forget to follow the ppl you met tonight & feel free to continue the convo..
Maslow's Heirarchy is a by-product of a social injustice. He appropriated it from the indigenous peoples in the Dakotas and Souther Alberta. I saw posts on it by Professors several months ago #rethink_learning
Mistakes are part of the process and if we are aware of them, learn from them, and grow together the conversations will benefit all involved. #rethink_learning It's not easy, but it is the right thing to do
@raspberryberet2 Just in case people get it wrong, my handle is @bbray27 - Yes - everyone please follow everyone in this chat. Let's definitely continue the convos. #rethink_learning
In reply to
@raspberryberet3, @BBray, @k_shelton, @raspberryberet2, @bbray27
Here is the first link to check out https://t.co/NvQBquiid8 I no longer use his name or that heirarchy graphic. It's Cultural Appropriation at its best!! #rethink_learning
You know, one way I could change is stop thinking that I am leading/facilitating "high-stakes conversation"on race, and realize that I am part of this conversation. Like, let's talk about this. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Exactly. I always encourage educators to ask questions like help me understand or is there another part of the "story" that I may not be aware of #rethink_learning
Thank you @k_shelton your leading the way in social justice & @bbray27@raspberryberet3 & all for the chat - #equity issues are faced by all educational systems across our world & educators need to lead the way in addressing inequities.
#rethink_learning
Yes and don't we encourage risk taking/failure for learning in our students? So why should we exempt ourselves especially when it comes to meaningful conversations? #rethink_learning
Right with you! Even the concept of the hierarchy pyramid; I felt a little badly for bringing it up, but if I hadn't, you'd never have had an opportunity to tell me what you learned about it! #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Yes, we cannot just talk about it, we have to do the walk -- model it. We tell our kids about taking risks. We need these uncomfortable talks to make change happen. #rethink_learning
In reply to
@k_shelton, @ItsAMrY, @MrWeimann, @MonicaHousen
which is precisely why I shared with you what I learned recently as well rather than telling you it is wrong. Words Matter. Thank you very much for posting it. #rethink_learning
That's how I feel. What right do I have unless I'm willing to understand "white privilege" and my part in it. Am I willing to fight for change for all children? Or continue to be complicit? I cannot anymore. #rethink_learning
In reply to
@MrWeimann, @k_shelton, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY
A2: Social justice is directly related to eventual equity. If we don't address it early on, the gap keeps increasing and becomes unsurpassable and the cycle continues. Its important to start reducing marginalization in schools #rethink_learning
If my voice is out there and I have a platform, I have to know how to have the right conversations. I taught out of the textbook and changed that. But I wasn't aware of how much I thought was correct was actually wrong. #rethink_learning
In reply to
@MrWeimann, @k_shelton, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY
A1: As an immigrant parent, I see bias and prejudice my kid is often subjected to. Not just my kid every single kid who looks different than the norm. I just created and shared an image today to address this for many such children. #rethink_learning#socialjustice
Yes @fablefy -- we usually wait until HS or never to have these conversations. Why aren't we involving families when children are young? What are the conversations all of us need to have for young children, early learning? #rethink_learning
Thank you, @fablefy for creating this image. All of us might have felt left out. The idea of being mindful about someone who might look different than you is about teaching #empathy, #kindness. We can address this. #rethink_learning
A1: As an immigrant parent, I see bias and prejudice my kid is often subjected to. Not just my kid every single kid who looks different than the norm. I just created and shared an image today to address this for many such children. #rethink_learning#socialjustice
A3a: One way is to look beyond our walls. My district lies just outside a city. I would love to help provide them with tech devices and training. I've heard of sister cities. I want to do sister schools. #rethink_learning#equity#socialjustice
Thank you for joining #rethink_learning and diving right into the discussions about #equity#SocialJustice and addressing inequities. We need to keep the conversations going even if we are uncomfortable. #rethink_learning
In reply to
@teacherasleader, @k_shelton, @raspberryberet3
A book that helped me see past my traditional upbringing was Howard Zinn's "People's History of the United States". Just read it last summer.
https://t.co/fb74HjYOfh#rethink_learning
In reply to
@bbray27, @k_shelton, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY
I need to review and finalize my blog posting around several readings that are worthwhile and aligned with our topics for this evening and last time. I will do my best to publish it this evening #rethink_learning
In reply to
@MrWeimann, @bbray27, @MonicaHousen, @ItsAMrY
I think one of my main things is wanting to hear and learn from people who are different from me. I am drawn to people who differ from me, both in appearance and even philosophy. #rethink_learning
