How to Teach Kids about Racism and Racial Justice

You're invited! 
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Odyssey Community School and my Co-Director Megan Martell partnered with racial justice educator Justina Prenatt and Clover Heart Concepts for this four part series. The first seminar was a basic introduction to the concepts of Racism and Racial Justice, among them the Invisible Backpack and White Fragility. The seminar format follows an initial hour of engaged lecturing and the remaining time for workshop. 

In the second week, the seminar began in the same way. I did spend some time with my circle sharing moments where we felt awkward in discussing race or where we were challenged by a racially charged situation. 
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Then we began looking more closely at the developmental spectrum and how to bring up and discuss issues of racism and racial justice with children. 

This is the kind of specific information that I wish every white parent was equipped with, noting that for black and brown parents discussion around race and its implications begin immediately and look differently. (It's white privilege that offers me the opportunity to "choose" this conversation, rather than be forced into it) ​

As a parent of two white boys, I walked away last week realizing that even though the media we bring into our home is relatively racially diverse, I need to provide more books and toys that include people of color. I need to go ahead and have that conversation with my twelve-year old about white privilege. And as he spends his Friday nights playing Magic downtown with friends at the local comic shop, we have to think out loud together about how to deal with the increased risk his black friends face if any law enforcement are brought into play. 

Next week's presentation focuses on what teachers and parents can do. I'm looking forward to it. I've heard we will spend part of the time choosing a class where we can experience a developmentally appropriate lesson from a skilled educator. I excited to see what teachers are creating in the classroom.

Other great resources in Asheville and beyond: the Building Bridges series offered by Building Bridges of Asheville. Among educators, this seminar has set the standard for racial justice work in Asheville. Odyssey staff and faculty, including me, are on the docket to attend the next seminar, and I'm so excited! 

​About Race: Our National Conversation about Conversations about Race - this now canceled podcast may be uncomfortable to listen to in moments. And that's okay. 

And for writers (my people!): Here's a great tumblr blog about writing characters of color.