Reading "The Academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies" opened my eyes to how education is supporting suppression. "White adults generally do not recognize the extent to which traditional mainstream curricula marginalize perspectives of communities of color and teach students of color to distrust or not take school knowledge seriously." We cannot change this just by "celebrating" cultures in solidarity. We need to teach with purpose and include cultures and perspectives in any way that we can. "We continue to disconnect racism in the past from racism today..." Until we recognize that it is still a struggle today, things will remain constant. Another idea that Sleeter uses from Hughes (2007), states that "American progress is not linear...rather (it is) a messy and continual struggle over power". There are periods of progress as well as periods of regression/setbacks. We also need to acknowledge that "mainstream curricula contribute to the academic disengagement of students of color". We need to encourage them with curricula and make them enjoy school. The author, Christine Sleeter, argues that ethnic students are important in many ways. They are enriched using knowledge of all cultures. They emphasize ongoing oppression and the things we can do to disrupt it. Above all, “examination of the historical construction of race and institutional racism, how people navigate racism, and struggles for liberation” are being discussed. Ethnic studies are more engaging for all students.
I like that you talked about changing curriculum to better engage students of color and other marginalized groups
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. I feel like sometimes we share a brain.
ReplyDeleteWe need to do so much more for our students! If a change or adjustment is needed for the success and betterment of our young minds and hearts then I agree that we need to do all that we can you ensure that we achieve this!
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