Friends:
The National Museum of African American History and Culture (part of the
Smithsonian) has launched its new portal "Talking about
Race."? It includes well-researched resources for parents and
educators.
Below is a link and excerpt from their website
Since the opening of the museum, the number one question people ask
us is how to talk about race. Every year we've refined our signature
program, ¡°Let's Talk! Teaching Race in the Classroom,¡± and now we want to
share what we've learned.
Even prior to opening our museum doors, we envisioned this museum would
be welcoming to those of every race, ethnicity, and nationality, and
those of every physical and cognitive ability, gender, sexual
orientation, religious beliefs and to all ages. We are proud of the work
we¡¯ve accomplished and want to bring our philosophy of inclusion into
this exciting new initiative.
Since the opening of the museum, the number one question people ask us is
how to talk about race. The NMAAHC education department¡¯s mission has
made deliberate strides toward being a ¡°brave space¡± to discuss race,
equity, and inclusion. We explore how these topics relate in both a
historical and cultural context. In 2014, we launched our signature
program, ¡°Let¡¯s Talk! Teaching Race in the Classroom.¡± Every year we¡¯ve
learned, reflected, and refined the program content ¨C always growing and
striving to do better.
The first thing to understand is that it is a process. This
process of understanding and talking about race begins by learning where
you are on your own journey. The starting point is different for each and
every individual. It is informed by how you see yourself and how you¡¯re
seen by others.? Add in all your unique experiences in addition to
factors like place, family history and community, and the starting point
will be different for every person. Each of our paths will be different
based on who we are and how we got here.
Issues of race are sometimes blatant and obvious, sometimes subtle and
nuanced, and often difficult to confront. However, with commitment and
caring, we can all play an important role in dismantling racism to create
a more inclusive, just, and safe society. By committing to understanding
and talking about race, all our lives will be better.
