Equity and Social Justice Resources

 

“There is simply no place for racism, violence, or discrimination of any kind in our organization, community, country, or world. The injustice that Mr. Floyd suffered nearly a year ago at the hands of Derick Chauvin is reprehensible and I applaud the jury for reaching a guilty verdict in this matter. But even so, my heart still aches for George Floyd, his family, and our country.

Many students and families in our community have experienced fear, frustration, and trauma as this trial has unfolded, and have relived the pain of all past instances of injustice. As educators and parents, we must embrace our role to help young people process this moment in time.

Let’s stand united for justice and each of us vow to do better. Let’s be kinder, more compassionate, and seek to understand one another. Let’s always promote equity, dignity, and respect for all people. Let’s instill these values in ourselves and our young people. Let’s hear our youth and give them the tools and the inspiration needed to continue to make meaningful change in our society. Let’s listen, learn, and act together today.”

— Dr. Mary C. Barlow   •  Kern County Superintendent of Schools

 

Following are several ways parents and educators can continue the dialogue, along with links to several resources to become more involved in our nation’s call for justice.

Talk to children with compassion:

Teaching Tolerance provides resources for talking to kids about race and racism

HealthyChildren.org – Talking to Children about Racial Bias

Know your rights: Protester’s Rights

Read books together as a family to support conversations on race, racism, and resistance:

Embrace Race: Read-aloud books for raising a brave generation

27 Books to help you talk to your kids about racism

Speak up when you are witness to an injustice or some form of racism. Silence only serves to support and promote deplorable acts:

Six Steps to Speak Up

Educate yourself through the eyes of those most impacted:

Black parents describe “The Talk” they give to their children about police

Black Parents Know about “The Talk” – White Parents, It’s Your Turn

Raising Race Conscious Children

A Conversation on Race – A series of short films about identity in America

Additional Resources:

National Association of School Psychologists: Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Helping Youth after Community Trauma: Tips for Educators

National Association of School Psychologists: Understanding Race and Privilege

Media Smarts: Talking to Kids about Hate in Media

Anti-Defamation League: 5 Tips for Talking with Children about Hate Incidents

SAMHSA: Tips for Talking with and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event