Black History Month

February 17, 2025 Geeta Kumar Anti-Racism, Black History Month, General

Leading with Joy for Black Brilliance (History) Month

My positionality: To preface this post, I am engaging in this work as a co-learner rather than an expert. As a racialized woman and a life-long learner, my role as an anti-racist teacher involves knowing the students and families in front of me to create equitable learning experiences to ensure students feel a sense of belonging and community. This means doing the heart and hard work of learning and unlearning.

February is known as Black History Month, and it is a time to honour and recognize the contributions, achievements and resilience of Black Canadians. While we will focus on Black Joy in the month of February, to do deep meaningful learning, it is recommended that we engage in this work all year long.

As educators, we are tasked to teach truth to power. When educating about Black Canadians, please do not start with enslavement and their harm. They were in Canada before enslavement, so it is important to highlight that.

However, that is not to say we should avoid discussions about the harm that took place in the past and present. Plan so that students have had a chance to see and learn about Black History in a lot of positive, joyful ways.

Shifting to Black Joy
How will you shine light on the Black Brilliance here in Canada to help our students see the greatness and contribution of Black Canadians? How are you ensuring that you are not only teaching about Black Trauma, but also shifting the focus to include Black Joy? We can do this by sharing the stories written by Black Canadian Authors. In fact, the changes to the new language curriculum focuses on this: A3. Applications, Connections, and Contributions – Identity and Community

I encourage you to lead with Joy and Excellence! ETFO has shared some great resources to get you started!

ETFO BHM Poster 2025

August 9, 2024 Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola 21st Century Learning, Advocacy for change, Anti-Racism, Black History Month, Black Lives Matter, Building Inclusion, Celebrating Success, Challenging Topics, Curriculum Planning, Equity, General, Inspiring Students, Inspiring Teachers, Learning About Your Students, Making a Difference Through Education

Why I Got Involved In Education: Black Student Success and Excellence.

A number of ETFO locals have included educational programming with Graduation Coaches connected to Black communities to serve as mentors to Black students, offering intensive, culturally responsive support.

Below are insights from a Black Excellence Graduation Coach.

Education has always been emphasized in my home. I still remember my parents hanging their university graduation photos from Nigeria in our houses’ hallways. Whether intentional or not, it inspired me to aim for university and, even after graduating, to continue climbing the academic ladder. This inspiration fuels me to this day.

However, in my academic pursuits, I have always understood that education—the process of gaining insights into a particular subject—does not always occur within the confines of brick-and-mortar schools. From observing, interacting, and learning from my siblings, parents, friends, and members of my African-Caribbean community, I learned that what people are taught strongly influences how they think and behave. I am a testament to this ideology, having benefited from the lessons my wonderful parents taught me at home. I learned from my Black community the importance of time management, embracing my Blackness, respecting others’ opinions, managing my emotions, critical thinking, and the unique experience of being Black in Canada. These lessons greatly impacted my academic performance.

In the paragraphs above, I touch on three main points: inspiring youth, the importance of cultural understanding in learning, and the influence of executive functioning skill development on learning. These points, combined with my thirst for knowledge and passion for caring for children and youth, drive my decision to wake up each day and actively shape students’ education. However, I am not in a stereotypical classroom.

Inspiring Youth

“Is that your little brother?” one of my peers asked as I walked away after spending 5 to 10 minutes coaching a kid I had just met at drop-ins on how to shoot a basketball and properly perform drills to improve his game. Intrinsically, I enjoy helping youth and inspiring them to build their skills or see beyond their present situation. Although my parents were academically inclined, school didn’t always come naturally to me, but having their achievements around me greatly inspired me to see beyond my present shortcomings. Unfortunately, some youth don’t have that level of support, and it may not always be provided in the classroom. That’s where I come in. In my role within the school and the work I do in the community, inspiring youth, especially Black youth who have historically been negatively affected by systemic issues, is vital to their educational performance.

The Importance of Cultural Understanding in Learning

Growing up, I didn’t have many teachers who highlighted the cultural differences among my peers and me, allowing us to see those differences as a means of learning and improving our academic potential. In elementary and high school in Canada, the only thing I learned about Black people was that they were once enslaved in America and came to Canada for safety. I also learned about famous civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. However, as educational philosophers would say, my culture and the cultures of others were not used to “call out our subjectiveness,” the unique aspects that help us see ourselves meaningfully in what we are learning. Fortunately, I grew up in a diverse neighbourhood with people from around the world and different religions, which helped me understand myself and see the world from different perspectives. Growing up with positive and negative examples of Black North American and Nigerian African cultures helped me see things about myself that were not represented in the classrooms and schools I attended. However, I struggled to see myself represented in education and learning at school unless I had a Black teacher. Learning that I was fortunate to have more than two Black teachers in the Ontario education system, I realized the value they added to my education. Research shows that when students have Black educators who are culturally relevant in their teaching, Black students tend to excel academically because their culture is represented in positions of authority and leadership.

The Influence of Executive Functioning Skill Development on Learning

The education system is meant to prepare students for life, guiding them to acquire skills and knowledge to contribute socially and economically to their communities. However, too often, students go through school focusing on grades without learning life skills that would help them apply their academic knowledge. These skills are often left to parents to teach and are only enforced in schools when students misbehave. Understanding that teachers managing over 100 students may only have time to reactively address life skills, I researched culturally relevant teaching practices. I found that integrating these life lessons in the classroom improves student academic achievement. This is especially true for Black students who frequently face microaggressions and biases. To assist teachers in drawing the best from their students, I got involved in education to help students see themselves beyond their current school experience and think about their future, providing them with the skills to reach their goals.

Conclusion

Once again, I reiterate that education is the pillar of society and cannot be ignored. What community members learn, whether directly or indirectly taught, strongly determines how they think and behave. Understanding that education is also a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4), I got involved outside the classroom because of the profound impact education has on any country’s future and the changes the themes I explored made in my own academic and life trajectory. To do the right thing and indirectly pass on the torch by positively impacting the lives of youth, I realized that inspiration does not only come from the classroom. I can inspire youth to do better than my peers and I have done just by being an educator in the school. Additionally, my awareness of my Blackness and its cultural significance helps me see the untapped potential that the current education system may not bring forth in Black youth. Not wanting that unique light to be snuffed out, I know it is essential to be present in the education system, advocating for young Black girls and boys to see themselves represented in pivotal societal places. Lastly, participating in advocating for better quality education for Black children cannot be done without being an active member of the village raising our Black, racialized, and non-racialized children. By instilling life lessons that help them wisely utilize the knowledge they receive from teachers and the curriculum, they will become pivotal members of their community, moving it forward.

June 27, 2024 Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola Advocacy for change, Anti-Racism, Black History Month, Black Lives Matter, Building Inclusion, Celebrating Success, Challenging Topics, Communication with Parents and Guardians, Equity, General, Inspiring Students, Inspiring Teachers, Making a Difference Through Education, solidarity

The Importance of Black Student Success in Ontario

Black Student Success programs play a crucial role in Ontario’s education system, providing tailored support to Black students who often face unique challenges. Educators involved with the programs are deeply connected to Black communities and serve as mentors and advocates, offering culturally responsive guidance that is vital for Black students’ academic and personal development.

One key importance of Black Student Success educators is their ability to create a sense of belonging and representation for Black students. In an education system where Black students are underrepresented among educators and administrators, these educators act as role models, demonstrating the possibilities of academic and professional success. This representation is critical for fostering a positive self-identity and encouraging students to aspire toward their goals.

Moreover, these educators offer intensive support that goes beyond academics. They address the holistic needs of Black students, including socio-emotional well-being, cultural affirmation, and resilience building. This comprehensive support system helps students navigate challenges such as microaggressions, racial biases, and other forms of discrimination that can hinder their educational progress.

Black Student Success educators also bridge the gap between schools and Black communities, fostering stronger relationships and better communication. By understanding and incorporating their students’ cultural contexts, these coaches can effectively advocate for necessary resources and support within the school system. This advocacy ensures that Black students receive equitable opportunities to succeed academically.

Black Student Success educators are indispensable in Ontario’s efforts to promote educational equity. Their culturally responsive mentorship and advocacy support individual student success and contribute to a more inclusive and representative education system, benefiting the broader community. This holistic approach ensures that students receive consistent encouragement and resources from all facets of their lives.

Next Steps for Educators to Engage with Students:

Educators should actively collaborate with Black Student Success educators to create inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity and cultural richness. This collaboration involves integrating culturally responsive teaching practices into everyday classroom activities. Educators can start by diversifying their teaching materials to include perspectives and contributions from Black individuals and communities. They should encourage open discussions about race, identity, and social justice, creating safe spaces where students feel valued and understood.

By actively engaging with students, families, and community stakeholders, educators can contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive educational system where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

The program for Black Students is designed to provide intensive, culturally responsive support to Black students with the goal of improving their well-being and achievement. As intermediate students graduate and move to high school, they may be able to work with Black Graduation Coaches who can continue to work with students to demonstrate the possibilities of academic and professional success to promote Black Excellence.

Check out what these school boards are doing to promote Black Excellence:

YRDSB Black Excellence Program

TDSB Black Student Excellence Program

Greater Essex CYF Program

OCDSB Sankofa Centre

PDSB – ‘We Rise Together’

February 2, 2024 Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola alternative curriculum, Anti-Racism, Black History Month, Black Lives Matter, Building Inclusion, Curriculum Planning, Equity, Inclusion, Inspiring Students, Inspiring Teachers, Making a Difference Through Education, Professional Learning and Growth, Social Justice

Empowering the Future: The Significance of the International Decade of People of African Descent in Elementary Education

Picture: UN Promotional Materials

The International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD) emerged as a pivotal force in pursuing a more inclusive and equitable education system. Focused on championing the rights and contributions of individuals of African descent, this global initiative carries significant implications for elementary education, where foundational values of respect, understanding, and embracing diversity are imparted to young minds.

This decade was positioned to act as a catalyst for promoting cultural diversity within elementary schools. By integrating the history, heritage, and achievements of people of African descent into the curriculum, we cultivate a learning environment that authentically mirrors the world’s diversity. This enhances the cultural awareness of all students and fosters a sense of inclusion for those of African descent.

In the formative years of elementary education, children are shaping their perceptions of race and ethnicity. The IDPAD represents an opportunity to disrupt stereotypes by presenting a more accurate portrayal of people of African descent. The use of diverse educational materials and narratives enables students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the contributions and achievements of African communities.

Incorporating the principles of IDPAD into elementary education is crucial for creating an inclusive and fair learning environment. By celebrating the diversity of cultures, traditions, and perspectives within the African diaspora, schools contribute to breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of unity among students of all backgrounds.

Moreover, educators must recognize the importance of showcasing the achievements of individuals of African descent to inspire their students. By highlighting diverse leaders, scientists, artists, and historical figures through the lens of IDPAD, elementary education offers a broader range of role models for young minds to emulate.

IDPAD goes beyond fostering a global perspective; it emphasizes collaboration and understanding on an international scale. Lessons exploring the experiences of people of African descent contribute to global awareness and nurture a sense of solidarity with diverse communities worldwide.

Educators play a pivotal role in shaping the values and attitudes of students during their elementary years. IDPAD equips them with the tools to address racism and discrimination by fostering an understanding of the challenges faced by people of African descent. Educators nurture a generation committed to justice and equality by engaging in open and honest discussions.

Now, more than ever, educators must incorporate IDPAD principles into their teaching practices. The global call for justice and equality underscores the urgency of instilling these values in young minds. By integrating the lessons of IDPAD, educators contribute to developing socially conscious and empathetic individuals ready to navigate and challenge the complexities of a diverse world.

Beyond symbolism, the International Decade for People of African Descent is a resounding call to action in elementary schools worldwide. By embracing IDPAD principles in education, we empower young minds to embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to a fair and inclusive society. Elementary education becomes the fertile ground where seeds of understanding are sown, cultivating a generation prepared to shape a world where everyone’s story is acknowledged, celebrated, and valued.

References:

United Nations. (n.d.). International Decade for people of African descent. United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/observances/decade-people-african-descent/background

The International Decade for People of African Descent: Who have these ten years served? Black Agenda Report. https://blackagendareport.com/international-decade-people-african-descent-who-have-these-10-years-served

April 6, 2023 Arianna Lambert Black History Month, Equity, Inspiring Teachers, self reflection, The Arts

Unpacking the System Through Artistic Expression

In February, ETT hosted workshops, offered an incredible book draw and shared resources and events happening during Black History Month. I was honoured to have the opportunity to design and facilitate a workshop for members that was offered during Black Mental Health Week – recognized during the first week in March. The workshop was entitled Unpacking the System Through Artistic Expression. It was an interactive workshop, where participants came together to discuss some of the challenges while considering ways in which practicing art and embracing our own creativity can help support our mental health and well-being journey. The evening was capped off by some time to get creative with black canvas and neon paint.

It was an absolute honour to have had this opportunity and I must admit that in the planning stages, I was a little nervous for a number of reasons:

I know what interests me and I’m not always sure that it resonates with other members. I wanted this to be a space where people would have the opportunity to connect, share stories and strategies, and have fun painting. I knew that I wanted to share some of my experiences navigating the system and offer that to members but I’m also acutely aware that for many, sharing our stories is deeply personal and historically, the “safe” spaces often spoken about, don’t exist. In planning, I decided to stick to sharing my own experiences, some facilitation on white supremacy culture and really focusing on the joy that can come from creating.
When I think of paint nights, people are usually painting the same image. For this session, I wanted participants not to focus so much on learning how to paint something but to have the freedom to be able to create what they wanted with the materials. I crossed my fingers and hoped that members would embrace the idea of being free to create.
This was my first in-person workshop since the start of the pandemic. I still mask and sometimes feel a little awkward in new or unfamiliar settings where I might be the only one. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. Being greeted by a masked Juluis at the ETT office really went a long way to ease some of the last few jitters.

Our paint night was a success! It was great meeting, chatting, and creating with members. It was incredible how quickly time went by. So often, we are at events and thinking about what’s next. It was refreshing to see members who came prepared to fully engage. I have been on a mission to intentionally carve out time for experiences that bring me joy. For me, this was yet another opportunity and it was truly an honour.

March 3, 2022 Arianna Lambert Black History Month, Literacy, Technology

So What’s Your Story?

Many moons ago I was gifted a wonderful book by a student and her family. Good Night Stories For Rebel Girls is a collection of stories about 100 extraordinary women, including beautiful illustrations from female artists. Over the years, the team at Rebel Girls has created other books. This month – being Black History Month – I was excited to gift their book of 100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic, to a friend. In my inscription, I shared that her story also needed to be added to the book. This got me thinking about the stories that we share – particularly during Black History Month – and how we as teachers, go about sharing these stories. Often, it’s a select few well-known people whose stories we feel are worthy of highlighting for one reason or another. Within our schools and communities, I wonder how many equally incredible stories are waiting to be heard? How might the stories that we as a community learn from each others’ experiences, ultimately make our school community even better? In this post, I’m sharing a few ideas that are buzzing around in my mind.

Create Your Own Anthology

Based on the stories within this book, creating a class or school anthology is the easiest idea that comes to mind, but is also one of the hardest. I think of the incredible stories that students, school staff and community members could share about their lives and experiences. There could also be a team of illustrators or the person who is sharing their story can create their own self-portrait. There’s so much power in seeing how one views themselves. The stories within the book are short and powerful. Examples can be shared to give writers an idea of how they might choose to share their stories.

Seems easy enough, right? But what conditions do we have to cultivate in order for people to feel comfortable in sharing their stories? If students, staff and/or members of the community don’t feel as though they are a respected part of the school community, we may never know what story they may have to tell. Further, if by chance we are privy to any part of the story of another and decide to ask for a contribution, we might in fact be causing further trauma by asking for the story to be revealed. There’s a delicate balance when it comes to the telling of stories and I firmly believe that it starts with creating spaces where people feel seen, heard and valued. Without that, creating this sort of anthology will cause more harm than good.

The 3 Prompt Podcast

Some time ago, I shared a post on podcasts for students. In the post, I shared ideas on how podcasts could be used within the classroom and since then, I’ve shared other posts on how we’ve incorporated them in both literacy and science activities. Most of what I shared has been about fictional stories but why not have a podcast dedicated to sharing the real stories of students, staff and members of the community? Rebel Girls has its very own podcast that might spark ideas for listeners too.

One thing that I’ve learned is that podcasts don’t need to be long. They just need to share interesting information about a specific topic and listeners will be hooked. In podcasts, I think that the interview questions are crucial and make them flow. Students can take turns interviewing people who are willing to share their stories, coming up with 3 prompts to guide the conversation. Interviewing is an art. Years ago, I learned about the TED method of interviewing. I’ve used it in design to understand the story of the user and that’s really the goal of this type of interview – to understand the story of another, rather than to lead. In the TED method, we use 3 sentence starters to guide the interview.

The sentence starters are simple enough to tweak into meaningful prompts once you know a little about the person you are interviewing. Yet another reason why it’s so important to build a space where people feel seen, heard and valued.

These are just a couple of ideas stemming from these incredible books. Perhaps start by considering where you are at with building classroom or school community. Do members of this community feel seen, heard, and valued? If not, take stock of what changes need to be made by listening to stakeholders and developing a plan of how to implement change. If so, consider how you might like to share stories. Consider whose stories often get told and whose don’t. Consider why that might be. Have discussions on how you might create – whether through writing, art, a podcast or any other method. Stories are powerful and can be inspirational. When the time is right ask, “So what’s your story?”.

February 27, 2022 Gary Stewart Advocacy for change, Anti-Racism, Black History Month, Challenging Topics, Equity, Inspiring Students, Social Justice, The Arts

Why a Black History Month?

I have often wondered why February was chosen to celebrate Black History, so I did some research and found out some interesting facts.

It so happens that Black History Month evolved from the work of Carter G. Woodson, a Black American historian and scholar in the 1920s. He actually first established Black History Week in the 1920s as a week of celebration to follow the year’s study of Black history. The week he chose contained the birth dates of two significant people to the abolition of slavery in the United States: February 12th for President Abraham Lincoln who brought emancipation into law and February 14th for Frederick Douglas who advocated for the freedom of Black people. Toronto first celebrated Black History in the 1950s when the Canadian Women’s Negro Association brought the celebration to the city. In 1978 the Ontario Black History Society successfully petitioned the City of Toronto to have the now monthly celebration formally recognized. Black History Month is now celebrated across Canada to honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities.

But Why a Black History Month?

I think that all Canadians should be made aware of the historical contributions made by Black Canadians. It’s important to understand the social forces which have shaped and influenced the Black community and their identities as a means of feeling connected to the educational experience and their life experience in Canada. Canadian history should include all people’s history, and Black history should be no exception.

As a school community, I look forward to the day when all people are recognized, included and valued for who they are in our education system and in the broader society. Most importantly, I look forward to when everyday is a celebration of all our histories and all our contributions, and the topic of why a Black History Month would no longer be up for debate.

Move Away from Enslavement to Empowerment

In talking about and teaching about Black History, I find it more meaningful to focus on empowering students to become agents of change rather than victims of circumstances. One of the activities I have used is an Art/History lesson on understanding the social justice impact of Black Artists on our society. Below is an outline of my lesson that I hope might be of some use to you. The Google Doc was shared with me from another colleague, but I modified parts of it to make it culturally relevant to my school community.

Why are we learning about this anyway?

To highlight the successes and accomplishments of Black visual artists
To learn how Black visual artists use their work to address real-life, complex problems relating to anti-oppression, equity and social justice

Task: Using Google Slides – Research, analyse and recreate a piece of art from one of the Black artists discussed in class: Ernie Barnes, Varnette Honeywood, Romare Bearden, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Annie Lee

Describe, highlight and and explain the artist’s creative style and abilities
Explain how the artist’s work can be seen from an anti-oppressive, equity and social justice lens
Recreate the selected piece of art as a platform to represent your own interpretation and understanding of the message the art represents in the original piece

Impact: Students were able to use digital tools to make discoveries through inquiry and research. They were also able to make connections to what they are learning to current issues and their lived experiences.

Black History Artists – Assignment

February 6, 2022 Kelly.McLaughlin Black History Month, Challenging Topics, Constant Learning, Questioning, self reflection

“I have been forced to celebrate Valentine’s Day all my life!”

As we enter a new month, we look forward to celebrating new things with our classes. I was so excited to do a group research activity with my class this week, not only to see how well they collaborated, but to see what they knew about as far as days we celebrate in February.

This is the list they came up with:

Black History Month
Valentine’s Day
Lunar New Year
Groundhog Day
Family Day

Students worked with their classmates to come up with some facts about the celebrated dates. Then, they shared these facts with the rest of the class. During this activity, I saw new students stepping up as leaders and a lot of interesting conversations occurred.

Black History Month

Out of my 24 students, ten can remember celebrating this each year. They had mentioned hearing about it on the announcements or at the beginning of the month from their teacher but not much more. Last year was an interrupted year so perhaps they cannot remember much. Without researching, one student could recall the importance of learning about Black History and how she was looking forward to learning more. Many students wondered why Black History month is just one month? The discussions that came out of this were great as one grade seven offered that we should celebrate Black History as part of our history curriculum. I let her know that I agreed with this and the curriculum is starting to become much more inclusive. Ensuring these important parts of history are captured during each unit rather than once a year is something we all need to try to do. My class voted that they would all like to learn and celebrate during Black History Month this year since they hadn’t been able to remember much from last year.

Lunar New Year

One student in my room mentioned that they celebrate Lunar New Year and that they would be having a nice dinner that evening. They also wore a nice dress shirt to class and will be eating as a family that evening. Other students were unsure about this celebration and I made sure to fill them. When we are back from our Snow Day, I hope to show them an article on how families celebrated this year. No students had ever heard about this or could remember celebrating as a class in the past. One student offered that they had made a lantern in grade one.

Groundhog Day

Many students knew about this day without hearing the research and knew that it occurred each year. They did not want to celebrate or learn about this day as a class this year as they did not find it that important.

Family Day

The research group found out when Family Day started and that we all have the day off for this holiday. Although we have the day off to celebrate, only four students put up their hand when asked if they would like to do something fun with their family that day. A grade 7/8 audience is hard to ask that question to because finding joy in spending time with family may be challenging to admit to their peers. We learned about how this day was created so that people can spend time to honour the importance of family and to cherish them by spending time with them. Lots of questions were asked about why we needed to have the day off. Great conversations around this as well!

Valentine’s Day

This was the first celebration that was mentioned when groups selected their celebration. They knew the date of this holiday and many facts about it, not even thinking they needed to do any research. When I asked students how many had celebrated in the past, all hands went up. Students had mentioned doing crafts, going to dances, sending Valentine’s, etc. When I rephrased the question to who would like to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, only 9 of the 24 hands went up. Whether it be their age of their disinterest in this holiday, students who had celebrated in previous years would not like to anymore. One student made a comment that inspired me to write this blog post. Her comment was, “I have been forced to celebrate Valentine’s Day all my life!” This comment really shocked me as I know that in the past, I had brought in cakes, cupcakes, treats, organized dances, organized candy grams, played music, dressed up, etc. all to celebrate a holiday that may not have meant anything to my students. They may not want to celebrate a day that appears on the calendar each year. That is why when administrators mention to be careful how much emphasis you place on certain holidays, it is meant for the students who may not want to celebrate that holiday. This year, I will allow my nine students to find a way to enjoy this holiday with their peers. The other students will not have to give up any of their time on February 14th to participate in something they do not want to participate in.

Lots of food for thought with this discussion, try it with your class if you think they can respond appropriately!

February 1, 2022 Arianna Lambert Black History Month, self reflection, Teacher Wellness

The Other 11 Months

Black History Month is just around the corner. I’ve seen the posting of new books and the sharing of activities and TPT lessons on notable Black people. I know that some go all out with their bulletin boards and their quotes of the day. Some really push hard for Black people to be “celebrated” during the month of February. Many give themselves a lot of credit for their efforts in February but I wonder what happens the other 11 months of the year? Years ago, I wrote about my thoughts on the “Cultural Months” that are “celebrated”. I guess as the month where I’m supposed to be “celebrated” approaches, I’m reminded again why these months don’t sit well with me. In this post, I once again ask for a few considerations to be made.

Black Teachers Exist in Schools Too

I know that a lot of what we do in education centers around students. This is imperative. At the same time, I think that it sometimes gets lost on some that within the school setting, Black teachers exist too. We’re real. We face the same challenges and impacts that are presented to staff in meetings when it comes to anti-Black racism. Just because we are adults, doesn’t mean that we are somehow beyond or above any of it. When working to seek more equitable outcomes for students, it should not be lost on anyone that teachers are looking for the same equitable treatment. Please keep this in mind when you are speaking with Black colleagues and wanting to “pick their brains” for activities this month. We’re Black every month and I honestly think that many would be shocked with what we have to contend with year-round.

Words

As teachers, we’ve all heard about impact versus intent. We’ve also heard that words matter. This month, while you are trying your best, please know that there will be moments of discomfort for Black people navigating spaces that were not meant for them, particularly at a time when they are supposed to be “celebrated”. If a colleague feels safe enough to speak up about something that is said or written that is problematic, listen. Learn. I know that it’s uncomfortable to hear that we’ve made a mistake but doubling down on words, concepts or ideas that are anti-Black is more uncomfortable for the person who spoke up. When someone shares with you something that is problematic, remember that it’s not all about you. Take steps to grow, move on and change.

Excellence

Recently, I had the chance to revisit the notion of Black excellence with my friend, judy. It’s one that I have often struggled with because I find it implies that as Black people, we have to be excellent to be noted and/or celebrated. Me just sitting and being as a Black woman somehow isn’t enough when it seems as though the demand isn’t nearly the same for others. As you celebrate this month and the excellence that is Blackness, I ask you to consider and reflect on those you choose to share. Why do you share their stories? What is it about their story or existence that makes them worthy of note? While you’re doing that consider your Black colleagues. Are they as excellent in your eyes? Why or why not?

I’m certain that some of what I have said here as truth for myself can be the truth of others who struggle with being seen within education spaces. While it’s great that we celebrate the diverse identities that exist within our school communities during special months of the year, it’s imperative that we do more throughout the other months of the year. See your colleagues. Realize the impact of your words. Value existence as excellence.