Remake of Voices for Change: Kids Speak Out About Black Lives Matter Movement by CLR Educator

1) I feel students are being validated in their views by being given "feedback" to their opinions. I don't think the students realize that them receiving praise as "smart" kids and being on a national platform is empowering them and encouraging and supporting their work and thinking. Students can be given information about what is going on in the world, but this interview shows their engagement and a step to further action in the future. This is real life learning.

mjp4500 — 2020-07-29 18:07:44 UTC

Arca Skaggs

2020-07-29 18:10:29 UTC

I think the students represent a benign perspective as to who we are as a country. The reality is far more grave. It certainly matters that people are black or any other color. The notion of being colorblind is a critical issue that must be addressed in classrooms if we want systemic change.

I think we can learn a lot from these young people. It is sad to see they are young and have to go through these experiences.

2020-07-29 18:10:45 UTC

In classroom there has to be lessons on acceptance and really valuing our differences and how those differences make our society better.

Giving our students the ability to weigh in on issues that affect them as human beings is an important part of what teachers need to do in order to help move our nation in the right direction.

2020-07-29 18:11:28 UTC

Students need to be able to have time to express their feelings or thoughts in a guided discussion so their feelings and thoughts are validated.

2020-07-29 18:11:30 UTC

nob3086 — 2020-07-29 18:12:17 UTC

The videos show that students make meanings of what they see around them and make connections according to their experiences. It shows us that we have to provide students with engaging activities that allows them to share their experiences

I think we should validate their feelings when it comes to their backgrounds and experiences they encounter. Kids see and hear things and need to be given opportunities to speak in a safe environment. These kids perspectives are truly remarkable and what an example of change in our future.

2020-07-29 18:12:34 UTC

jgillenwaters — 2020-07-29 18:13:07 UTC

2020-07-29 18:13:31 UTC

What touched me most about all of these children was how much they wanted their peers to be valued for who they were and not what they looked like. I thought the young man talking about what his father told him about "walking a mile in his shoes as a black man" was especially poignant as he felt sadness that his father had to experience these things and travel throughout the world guarded and sometimes afraid.

I think students need to practice the act of expressing themselves effectively. So many times I have practiced how to answer questions when seeking what information they know, but I have not practiced how to effectively express thoughts, feelings, and emotions they may be feeling or given them a vocabulary bank to explicitly state feelings.

2020-07-29 18:14:41 UTC

Students are reacting to the Current state of our country and I am glad their voices are been validated

Vanessa Salazar

2020-07-29 18:14:50 UTC

1.) These students are not only able to recognize their own feelings about the Black Lives Matter Movement, they articulate these experiences and feelings effectively.
2.) Students need safe environments to express themselves verbally in the classroom. In addition, for students who do not have the confidence to participate in verbal discussions should be given tools and taught skills to develop the confidence they need to express themselves.

Valladarez, Claudia RCHS - LDNW I felt sad hearing their responses. They are so young and feeling somewhat inferior because of how they look, because of what they have heard adults say and/or feeling insecure/not safe... We should be providing an environment that welcomes equality, one that nurtures the differences in cultures, draw from student experiences to create a positive balance in regards to equity, provide opportunities to discuss their views/feelings about current or global matters...

claudia_valladarez — 2020-07-29 18:15:48 UTC

My reaction to the interview is one of horror. It's horrifying to me that the world we've created is one in which we are still addressing things that should have been taken care of long ago. I am hopeful that young people like those in the video are present and willing to take charge as these kiddos are.

tpr0741 — 2020-07-29 18:15:55 UTC

To make the lessons better, we need to allow students to develop something of their own

i was both saddened by the experiences described by the two african american boys yet left feeling hopeful about what the future may hold for us.

2020-07-29 18:16:17 UTC

It is imperative that we as teachers do not shy away from the issues but we must be informed, we must look at our own biases and how those come out and work to mitigate those in our lessons and interactions with students...they are there no one can say they aren't...some are just so covert and normalized by the system they are hard to detect.

I think that the children being interviewed expressed their conscious view of inequity in ways that not only articulated their anxieties, but also conveyed an innocence that should make those inured to racial injustice take pause and reflect. More interviews (both professional and those conducted in class Zoom sessions) should be incorporated in our instruction.

2020-07-29 18:16:23 UTC

Bertha Banuelos

2020-07-29 18:16:35 UTC

Voices for Change made me think that we need Racial/Equity/Equality Citizenship lessons (like Digital Citizenship lessons) that are student friendly and appropriate by age. It is important to have a balance of friendships and experiences at school and home, important to understand issues of equality and equity, and for people to have "larger circles" of friendships.

These kids are exposed to a world and situation that they can change and they will be the ones to do it.

2020-07-29 18:16:58 UTC

2020-07-29 18:17:55 UTC

Our students need to be given the opportunity to weigh in on issues that affect them on a day to basis. Then giving students the opportunity to choose an issues which they feel they would like to explore more and use project based learning and other methods to give them opportunities to express their ideas.

My reaction to the interviews is that these students are aware of issues that arise daily. Sadly this is our reality and having conversations with students at a young age gives them opportunity to share their feelings, concerns, and experiences. To help students thrive, we must provide opportunity for students to watch, read, do activities that cover current topics. I also think that restorative justice practices are also important to implement remotely. Students need to build community with their classmates online.

2020-07-29 18:17:58 UTC

Sad to hear their responses. Glad to hear that they want to change things.

pmb8799 — 2020-07-29 18:18:16 UTC

UNFAIR

2020-07-29 18:18:34 UTC

I felt sad for the little boy who feels scared when out at night because others might look at him as "bad" because he is an African-American

2020-07-29 18:19:31 UTC

It's very hard to hear the kids talk about their experiences.

1.I see powerful young voices who are not TOO YOUNG to have an opinion about the state of our country.

2020-07-29 18:19:32 UTC

2. We need to provide opportunities to express, a safe place, nurturing and welcoming space where all voices are equal and validated.

Betsy Ures

2020-07-29 18:20:02 UTC

1)My reaction to the video was joy. I feel strongly that many children and young adults have a firm grasp on racial justice and will be empowered to continue the fight for better living conditions for BIPOC. AT the same time, I feel frustrated for certain adults that refuse to take responsibility and expect the future generations to carry the weight of the work. 2) Students need to have opportunities to explore current events and present their opinions on a daily basis. Students have to be given the tools and skills to research topics and create presentations: videos, speeches, lessons, etc.. Teachers need to establish norms so that students can express their beliefs in a safe environment.

It made me sad. We need to realize this is a reality today. How can we as educators make this better.

2020-07-29 18:20:28 UTC

Powell

2020-07-29 18:20:33 UTC

It was sad to listen but very eye opening. I think that brining in the media into the classroom and having discussions about possible solutions, feelings, and what ifs will allow our students be more informed and connected

T.E. Guanlao

2020-07-29 18:20:37 UTC

1. Hopeful. The awareness they have at such formative stages in their lives is the type of knowledge/spirit that is going to impact the world we live in.
2. We need to continue to provide platforms for students to share their experiences and be open to counter-arguments. With an open mind and open heart, we can listen and learn what it means to be an ally.

It also made me sad that this is something that students/kids are having to look at. That this is a prevalent issue.

mss74591 — 2020-07-29 18:20:48 UTC

Q2 Jecenia Vera

2020-07-29 18:21:00 UTC

Young people need to see themselves in the curriculum presented in the classroom. As teachers we need to be mindful of inclusion. In addition, offering choice assignments will lead to authentic and organic learning because they are able to take control of their learning and share their experiences with their classmates. This is a great way for you as the teacher to get to know your kids and really dig in to how to differentiate their learning to their needs.

Christian Aguilar

2020-07-29 18:21:00 UTC

It's disappointing to live in 2020 and have to experience life of the 1960's. Mr. Floyd's sacrifice, while tragic and painful to witness, is blessing because it allows this generation to witness and experience what they had seen only in videos. This generation is more vocal using the various mediums to reach out and connect with people all over the world. In them i see the hope that this world will be covered palette of colors, rainbows, instead of only two 1950's color, black and white.

But to achieve this we as educators and human beings we need to listen. Listen to needs of the students and listen to the what is happening to the world around us. Build connections and understanding that "We Are Family" as Sister Sledge sang.
Create the safe environment and value what our student say and feel.
Expression through words, art, song, and dance is power.
Use it, share it, love it.
Acceptance is the key to help students thrive.

Reaction to the Stories

2020-07-29 18:21:09 UTC

Students are being pro-active about social change.

These young people expressed their ideas in a clear way and reminded us of the importance of racial justice and equity.

2020-07-29 18:21:31 UTC

We need to give students the time and background knowledge to better understand the history of racial injustice and the social, psychological, and economic ramifications of it. Depending of the students' age, teachers can provide various opportunities to students to comprehend this very complex issue.

nxi8834 — 2020-07-29 18:21:32 UTC

1) My reaction to the video was hopeful- hopeful for the future of our country if more children like these 6 can see the value of our racial and ethnic differences, as well as be proud of their own.

2) What we need to do in our classrooms is less focus on memorizing of facts for tests and quizzes that are said to evaluate student capacity- Instead we need to provide opportunities for experiences... let our students share their stories, let their families share their stories, give them a chance to build, problem solve, and discuss the real world so that they can make real connections and develop their sense of self.

Safe opportunities for discussion and debate ...

2020-07-29 18:21:47 UTC

The students' responses are so thoughtful and insightful. We need to give our students similar opportunities to reflect about the events they see unfolding around them. Our classrooms need to be safe spaces where students can voice their feelings and opinions without fear of judgment. Community Circles provide this kind of environment. Anonymous discussions are another venue for expressing ideas. We found this summer that students really enjoy engaging in structured debates where they can dissect conflicting perspectives.

Ester L.

2020-07-29 18:21:48 UTC

1. Their responses/reaction to the situation is incredible and sad.
2. We need to have hard talks and real talk with students and make sure to teach students not to shame others for differences in opinions as well.

2020-07-29 18:21:52 UTC

I was very happy and proud that these kids knew what was going on and wanted to make a difference in tomorrows world.
Real life experiences of all people of color, culture, and different lifestyles needs to be included in educational lessons so students understand the struggles, inequalities, and differences that exist, so that the barriers, biases, and misinformation can be lessoned, if not done away with.

My reaction students are more educated in diversity, ethnicity and differences of people

2020-07-29 18:22:32 UTC

2020-07-29 18:22:34 UTC

Voices for change

1)

2020-07-29 18:23:17 UTC

Today's Video

2020-07-29 18:23:39 UTC

This was a great video that shows the passion that some of our younger students can have. The leadership abilities that can flower if we give them a voice.
As educators we need to be able to let students have an opinion and share their opinion in order to create change.
In addition we need to expose them to the differences around us so that 5they can learn to embrace those differences and we can all respect each other and love one another.

1. It’s sad that they had to experience these things, but glad that they are trying to change things. We can learn a lot from these students. 2. As educators we need to provide a safe environment where our students can express their feelings and discuss the issues that affect them on a daily basis. We need to empower them to be

2020-07-29 18:23:44 UTC

It made me sad that this is still an ongoing issue and is prevalent. These students were great! It also is helpful to really focus on cultural awareness and being in-tuned with our students and backgrounds.

mss74591 — 2020-07-29 18:23:59 UTC

Voices for Change

2020-07-29 18:24:10 UTC

The students are an example of how many students feel. Like we teach Digital Citizenship lessons to students, we should teach Racial Citizenship lessons, too.

My initial reaction is that there is hope! If we teach students early on to respect color, ideas, beliefs, and personal space, we can learn to coexist with hatred and bias.

2020-07-29 18:24:11 UTC

Experiences in the classroom: multicultural reading sources, time to share cultural similares and differences, opportunities to research unknown cultures, virtual field trips to learn of other cultural backgrounds.

gam9811 — 2020-07-29 18:24:13 UTC

I have so many emotions about this video but not sure if this is the forum to address all my displeasures. But I will be professional about it and say the following...
The 15 year old said it best when she said that the other speakers were young and their views were going to change. I think that this video is trying to change the culture and mindset that is wrong with America these days and I applaud the effort. I will leave it at that....!

2020-07-29 18:24:23 UTC

Teachers can use lessons to ignite curiosity and debates about current issues to support the voice os these students

2020-07-29 18:24:35 UTC

One sentence that resonated with me is- we’re all the same, we’re all people.

These young people are growing up in a diverse area of the country. I believe that we need to be able to talk about differences so that we can learn to process and learn to accept the things we are not familiar with. Some areas in Los Angeles and throughout the country are not as diverse. We need to bring in diversity through stories both literary and Expository so that students can learn to be diverse. It also begins at home. Many diversity challenges must be overcome by our adults who are shaping these young minds. Parents need to learn about diversity, not only in foods but in looks, beliefs, dreams and challenges. Our Adult agendas must be put on a backburner to the agenda of THE CHILDREN!

mag1696 — 2020-07-29 18:24:44 UTC

Marie Rivera

2020-07-29 18:24:44 UTC

When listening to the students, I was saddened by what some students have had to endure in their lives. I was also inspired and encouraged by the students resiliency and positive outlooks to keep working to make our world a just and equal society for all. These students are awesome and truly do inspire. We need to provide an opportunity for our students to also share their experiences and we as educators really need to listen to their stories and their opinions about what it will take to help our world.

HOPE

2020-07-29 18:24:51 UTC

Create larger Circles. Invite to know more to learn more... ignite through open ended questions.

2020-07-29 18:25:00 UTC

Kids are more powerful to affect change than we think they are. They have ideas and experiences that need to be brought into lessons.

gdp9203 — 2020-07-29 18:25:02 UTC

These students give me hope. They are identifying inequities and acknowledging them by trying to find solutions. In the classroom we can give our students these same opportunities through conversations, debates and padlets.

bll6076 — 2020-07-29 18:25:03 UTC

2020-07-29 18:25:19 UTC

1) When you stop to think about, these children are not only dealing with growing up but with

jessica_chavarria — 2020-07-29 18:25:20 UTC

It's heartbreaking to hear these experiences that children have to endure. We, as educators, need to validate their feelings, emotions, and thoughts. Giving students the opportunity to see that we are all the same and all deserve to be treated equally. Incorporating multicultural activities into our curriculum will bring light to different cultures for children to see the beauty in all.

Students and young people are amazing

2020-07-29 18:25:38 UTC

The video is evidence that our students are the MAIN asset in our classrooms. They are inspirational, amazing and willing to do the work.

2020-07-29 18:25:38 UTC

1) It breaks my heart that they are so young and yet have had heartbreaking experiences. 2) In classrooms, circle time and sharing monitored by teachers who are culturally sensitive is important. Having discussions and safe place to do so is not only healing, but educational.

2020-07-29 18:26:06 UTC

It was sad to see that children so young have feelings of inferiority instilled in them. It is good to see however, that some of these young people are being proactive about trying to change the world and make it a more accepting place.

mtm4650 — 2020-07-29 18:26:07 UTC

E. Chavez

epg9997 — 2020-07-29 18:26:33 UTC

1. Students are well aware of injustices and inequities in society. I also notice that when they are in need of clarification they seek an adult to help explain and make sense of situations. The children in the video are curious and thirst for knowledge and answers.
2. As educators we need to incorporate real world phenomena and/or experiences that students can relate to. Students should be able to apply their own personal experiences and connect to the phenomena in order to make learning much more engaging and interesting. As teachers we need to model and create a classroom environment that is safe and open for students to share ideas and discuss topics without prejudice.

Degma Guzman's response: it is both disheartening and enlightening to see children having to deal with these types of issues. I am proud of their activism and intellect. They are making a difference.

2020-07-29 18:26:35 UTC

1. What stood out for me in the video was the interaction between the two girls. Rosalee (caucasian girl) shared an experience in which she could have jumped into a situation that she viewed as unjust but chose to seek adult help. Marley validated her actions by stating that Rosalee did not know all the facts so the best thing was to seek help from adults who had more information. I think this was powerful because it teaches children, and adults for that matter, that you are not limited to two choices, either speak up or do nothing. There are many ways that everyone can take steps to make change happen.

2020-07-29 18:26:36 UTC

2. Some experiences that need to be provided in the classroom to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas is creating opportunities for them to view other children like themselves speaking up and making their voices heard. In addition, allowing our students the opportunity, such as on Padlet, to express their reactions to other young voices. We also need to establish an environment of trust and respect which will allow students to be vulnerable and open up about their thoughts, feelings, opinions and experiences.

exposure to literature, healthy conversation, support and understand

2020-07-29 18:26:45 UTC

2020-07-29 18:27:13 UTC

Hearing the students give a depiction of what they are actually seeing and experiencing is disheartening. It is good to see the resiliency of the students despite what the news and media depict.

theresakirkman — 2020-07-29 18:27:23 UTC

I feel that students have a lot of insight on how to address key issues. They are not jaded by life yet.

Although I was very saddened to hear of the student's experiences and having to endure this at such a young age (any age is bad) I was uplifted by their willingness to want to make things better. They are an inspiration, I wish them the very best in the future.

2020-07-29 18:27:38 UTC

Students are very in tune with what is going on with the BLM movement and are able to articulate their feelings well.

2020-07-29 18:27:40 UTC

Students need an environment where they will not be judged for their points of view. They need a safe space where their concerns can be heard.

Willingness to Voice

2020-07-29 18:27:41 UTC

Provide an open forum for promoting VOICE and listen to one another... Allow students opportunities to express their feelings and experiences- be a FAMILY-COMMUNITY -Fatima

2020-07-29 18:27:46 UTC

I dont remember having this thoughts or conversations with anyone at their age. This children are aware of society's ugliness.
2) I think the lessons that needed to be provided to students on the reality of the world should not be for these students but for the children being raised to feel inferior towards other races.

2020-07-29 18:27:49 UTC

Jessica Carbajal

2020-07-29 18:28:01 UTC

While watching the video I felt sadness and I felt proud at the same time. Sad because it is unfortunate that our children are growing up in a world of uncertainty and people still not learning how to separate character from color of ones skin. Yet, I felt pride to hear how eloquently the children spoke their truth.

In the classroom setting, an open mic and personal experience activities could be a tool to allow our students have a voice and help others understand different cultures, backgrounds, and standpoints.

Sad that they felt fearful or different because of race or things beyond their control, but also glad that they seem to have a great support system and are informed,confident

2020-07-29 18:28:03 UTC

J.Martinez

2020-07-29 18:28:07 UTC

My reaction to the video is sadness and frustration, but at the same time, hope. The sadness and frustration comes from the reality that living in 2020, we still have to deal with these issues and our students have to grow up in this environment. My hope is that we can continue to build young people up so that they can grow and continue the change that we so desperately need to see in our country. The kids in the video were quite amazing and inspirational.

2020-07-29 18:28:08 UTC

1) What struck me the most was the quote “My dad told me, ‘You don’t know what is like to be Black until you walk a mile in my shoes’.”

2) I feel that we need to teach history and analyze all of the injustices that Black Americans and other minorities have suffered in the United States of America so that we can trigger change.

Students seem to be enlightened and aware of the social and political issues surround the BLM movement and the need for change. I love their use of the collective "we" regarding to ending racism.

2020-07-29 18:28:12 UTC

These children will make a difference in our world. They are open minded and know how to use their voice for justice and social change. I liked how the one girl said, 'If you don't know- ask someone who does and then make a decision on how to act.

2020-07-29 18:28:17 UTC

Students need to experience the world outside of their three mile radiu
s. They need to read about themselves and others,

H

2020-07-29 18:28:41 UTC

2020-07-29 18:28:46 UTC

This video demonstrate that students are very well aware of what is going on.

serrano_jannette23 — 2020-07-29 18:28:56 UTC

Provide your response to one of the following questions: 1) What is your reaction to the stories shared by any of the students in this interview?

I felt very moved by the stories that the students shared. I think it goes back to what Hammond was discussing earlier in that we need to create opportunities for students to explore, expand and learn.

2) What types of of experiences need to be provided in classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the worlds they live in?
I think in the classroom we should make opportunities for students to investigate and create presentations with their interests in mind. It is also important to make it relevant to them.

The Youth

2020-07-29 18:29:06 UTC

The kids are talking about race and it's good. I am glad they are practicing this discourse with their parents and other adults. Maybe in the future it won't be so awkward to talk about race.

gam9811 — 2020-07-29 18:29:09 UTC

... I do, however, loved how these young minds articulated and expressed their feelings. As a parent, I also tell my kids not to put themselves in akward or "bad" situations and to always RESPECT adults- not just law enforcement.

Institutional and systematic racism is alive, however its good to see that it is recognized by all who choose to be honest with themselves.

2020-07-29 18:29:11 UTC

I have hope that our world is going to be better because of Generation Z and A. They have a heightened level of consciousness and I am jealous that I don't get to be one of them.

2020-07-29 18:29:13 UTC

Surround yourself with diversity

2020-07-29 18:29:17 UTC

1. I loved something that was said in the video...The most important thing is to surround yourself with diversity!! This is so important because it allows humans to understand and respect other cultures. Every culture/race is beautiful and we must understand and not judge.

2.In the classroom it is crucial to give the students access to different cultures. Young minds are accepting by nature...they have little to no biases. This is the best opportunity to expose them to acceptance, kindness, one love, open mindedness, etc...We must foster all of these into the future for a better EARTH is in their hands.

I felt sad. After all these years, and our students are still not feeling safe.

2020-07-29 18:29:20 UTC

It is discouraging to hear what kids face in their experiences around their race. However, I am hopeful that they are self-aware and want to make a change in the world.

ath9701 — 2020-07-29 18:29:21 UTC

Acceptance

2020-07-29 18:29:23 UTC

this video shows that young people are yearning for wanting to be accepted.

Unfortunately, our students our not shielded or protected by racism at all times.

2020-07-29 18:29:24 UTC

They need environments where the can share their thoughts and feelings. They also need to know the language. We can not allow students to receive sugarcoated information. Our BIPOC students deserve better than that.

"There are some bad people in the world"
VS
"There are people who discriminate against people who are not white. That is racism."

Susana Contreras

2020-07-29 18:29:25 UTC

Based on their stories, I can tell that the children have experienced racism and social injustice at different levels.. BUT none agreed with it and they all felt that more could be done to change that. I a happy to see young kids be so aware and woke about social and racial injustices. I understand that the kids are young and may not yet understand the big picture and/or the complexity of the current racial issues affecting our black communities and/or our nation as whole. They speak of everyone being equal, and while true, there is so much more to that. I feel however, that this is the beginning of change for the future. They are AWARE and crave change. That's huge!
2. As educators we need to provide students a safe space to questions social injustices and inequities that exist. We need to provide opportunities for engaging in debate and discussion. We need to provide them the tools necessary to pose a problem and then do investigative research that leads to solutions. Kids are so intuitive and creative that these activities give them the platform to exercise social justice inquiry and leadership.

2020-07-29 18:29:37 UTC

Marley said "Find a balance" is something that struck a cord with me

I think it's good that students are given a voice and talking about current events.

rxm5034 — 2020-07-29 18:29:41 UTC

Teachers need to allow students to express their opinions and and talk about what goes on in the world around them. This reminded me of my 5th grade teacher and how we would talk about current events every friday and how she set discussion parameters.

2020-07-29 18:29:42 UTC

More opportunities for students to share their feelings, what’s going on with them besides academics

lela_rondeau — 2020-07-29 18:29:46 UTC

I really felt for the young woman who was told her hair took up "too much space" in elementary school. I wish there had been an adult to facilitate understanding and conversation about differences. The students have a lot of their own experiences to draw upon for conversation.

Classrooms can incorporate ample time for student voice (like this asynchronous task is modeling) so students see their ideas matter. Students can also better connect with each other this way- adults need to get out of the way.

HOPE

jgt9854 — 2020-07-29 18:29:47 UTC

What is your reaction to the stories shared by any of the students in this interview? What resonated with me is the young lady that didn't know much about the movement, but took the initiative to learn about it. They also mentioned if we could be color blind it would be great. The situation that we find ourselves in throughout our country has sparked the fire in our youth to become active and involved.

What types of of experiences need to be provided in classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the worlds they live in? We must include multicultural representation in our textbooks, lessons, and curriculum. They must also be provided with a safe environment where they feel safe to speak their mind, make mistakes, and learn from others.

The youth of today

2020-07-29 18:29:51 UTC

1. With today's technology students are currently updated with current events. With their knowledge and the love for humanity, they are goingt o have a great impact in our future.
2. We need to continue giving students the space to expressed themselves and open the floor to expressing their feelings and listen without judging. Give support, care and love.

Kids are very aware of the world around them. We need to take their feelings and their perspectives into account when we talk to them. Out of the mouths of babes...

2020-07-29 18:29:57 UTC

The students speak their truth in such a calm and articulate manner. We need to allow students to use their voices in the classroom without fear.

2020-07-29 18:30:03 UTC

Heartbreaking and Inspiring

2020-07-29 18:30:19 UTC

A child should not feeling like they or their family is a danger to society and be reminded daily. Despite this societal perspective many of our brown and black children thrive, as educators we need to continue to provide opportunities for them to reflect, speak, listen and create.

Conversations are important when talking about differences.

pxd5448 — 2020-07-29 18:30:26 UTC

Question 2

2020-07-29 18:30:27 UTC

Students need to debate. Need to role play these moments in history.

To add on to my answer to the first question:

2020-07-29 18:30:37 UTC

These students are very articulate, I feel responsible to help my students have the confidence to express their thoughts so clearly. We should have conversations so that the students can express themselves on these topics.

2020-07-29 18:30:43 UTC

It is comforting to know that children feel this way. If these are the voices of our future, it looks promising.

My reaction is that when students are given an opportunity to speak, they will be able to join a discussion at an adult level. These students have been provided what Hammond called intellectual environment. Freedom of speech, and opinion are more important now than ever! Students should be able to discuss authentic topics relative to their own lives, as well as to learn about the topics going on right now. -Covid, immigration, soldiers getting killed, police brutality, the elections, stimulus checks etc..

2020-07-29 18:30:44 UTC

kids

2020-07-29 18:30:52 UTC

It brought tears to my eyes to hear someone so young feel like they were being hunted. I pray that each one of them maintains a level of innocence that will begin to change the world.

2020-07-29 18:30:53 UTC

1] It is sad to see how kids need to adapt to social inequalities placed by past generations.

2020-07-29 18:30:58 UTC

2). This is why it is crucial to incorporate events and news to the curriculum so that students can make connects to the content and grow as individuals.

Ricardo R

2020-07-29 18:31:07 UTC

These young individuals have a huge heart. It comforts me to see that their future (aka my retiring years) will for sure be a less racist and inquitable world.

Affirmations

2020-07-29 18:31:21 UTC

Kids need affirmations of who they are. We need to be more cognizant of how we affirm their identities and experiences either explicitly or implicitly by what we include or don't include in our curriculum.

1) I feel sad that our students STILL feel targeted but I also feel hopeful that they will make a change and provide us with a better future.

2020-07-29 18:31:22 UTC

2) We need to provide students an environment in which they feel comfortable and safe to be themselves and not feel "targeted" by their race/gender/ethnicity.

Wow, it is sad that this young boy has fear of the injustices and racism that exist. We need to provide opportunities for students to share their feelings when necessary.

2020-07-29 18:31:24 UTC

gam9811 — 2020-07-29 18:31:27 UTC

In the classroom, we need to be cognisant of the different worlds our students live in and help them address and express themselves about those worlds while trying to educate them about how to get to the world they want to live in!

Hope

2020-07-29 18:31:29 UTC

Hearing these kids speak gives me lots of hope for the future. It’s kids like them that will make the difference we need in this country when it comes to racism. As an educator, we need to be able to have those uncomfortable conversations with our students, many times it’s us the adults that are uncomfortable.

Hearing Aiden's story that he is already perceived as a threat or danger to someone simple because he is black was really heartbreaking.

2020-07-29 18:31:31 UTC

There was a mixture of sadness and hope in these young voices. We need to share this video with our students!

mwalke9 — 2020-07-29 18:31:33 UTC

Iris Ramirez

2020-07-29 18:31:37 UTC

I was impressed that these students had there own opinion on what they were living and I feel sad that students have to walk the streets with fear of others.

Sandra

2020-07-29 18:31:37 UTC

It is sad that discrimination continues to exist. I have experienced some type of discrimination because of my color of my skin. I have spoken up in a respectful manner to let the other person know that just because I am brown doesn't mean I am not educated. I believe that we should create a safe classroom environment where students feel free to express themselves. Students should always be allowed to speak up and share their opinion and feelings. We should instill that we are all humans and that is the only thing that matters. We should never allowed any type of discrimination in our classroom.

Hearing this story brought back memories of when I was younger. I've had experiences like they speak about.

2020-07-29 18:31:42 UTC

There's hope if we have these kids.

2020-07-29 18:31:44 UTC

This reminds me of a song I used to sing when I was in elementary ...

Iris Valladares

2020-07-29 18:31:46 UTC

I find the students stories inspirational. It is amazing to see such young people acknowledge racism and stand up for wheat they believe is right.
In the classroom, students need to be given opportunities to safely share their beliefs and hear those of others.

It's sad to know that human beings are still identified by the color of their skin. They learn at an early age about everyone being the same, however, adulthood changes that. It's up to us...

2020-07-29 18:31:59 UTC

These students have been given the opportunities to have conversations embracing differences and treating people with respect. It is our job in the schools to educate our students to embrace one another.

pxd5448 — 2020-07-29 18:32:05 UTC

2020-07-29 18:32:05 UTC

I think it’s sad that kids feel this way and we should never dismiss their feelings.

I think in schools we need to address these feelings but also look at what is good in USA not just what Is bad. Racism and bias exists and unfortunately will always exist as it has been ugly part of world history. We need to let young people express their views but not indoctrinate them for political purposes either.

carolineadan — 2020-07-29 18:32:11 UTC

1)The students are struggling just as hard as the adults to navigate the racial tensions in the U.S., but because they are more transparent about it, they are arriving at understanding more quickly.

2)Students need to learn about each other’s cultures, find commonalities, and work collaboratively with each other so that they can thrive and express ideas about the world they live in.

My reaction is one of hope. To see these young people have open minds and an understanding of the direction they would like to take our current situation is extremely hopeful.......the experiences that have to be provided in classrooms are indeed those that they are able to relate to and also the ones they see media. As the Black Eyed Peas captured our attention, student's attention must be grasped with something they can relate to, and then proceed toward a global understanding of our world and current state of events.

2020-07-29 18:32:19 UTC

Rick - Sendak

Reaction

2020-07-29 18:32:21 UTC

I feel hopeful! these past few weeks have been scary and eye opening. We need to become more aware of social injustice
by educating ourselves and our students

Student Voices - by incorporating students' voices in our curriculum - we can encourage for a risk-free and safe learning environments for our students. Conversations with students about differences and how to appreciate differences would be important as well.

tuthanhnguyen — 2020-07-29 18:32:34 UTC

This what heartbreaking. So poignant to hear the kids' perspective on the fears they face in their daily lives. We must do better.

2020-07-29 18:32:39 UTC

1) It is very beautiful to hear these students express their feelings about what they are seeing around them and have agency to act on to change.

2020-07-29 18:32:45 UTC

2) Students first need to feel safe to express their feelings and experiences. There also needs to be a lot of teaching of vocabulary and language functions.

Video Reaction

2020-07-29 18:32:47 UTC

I feel sad, but hopeful. These kids are learning, talking, discussing, encouraging, being active participants. We need to expose our students. I don't understand when people are saying they are just finding out about this. That they didn't know.

First of all I was struck by how well they were able to express themselves, especially the 15 year old. The awareness they have at such a young age is both enlightening and sad, almost strips them of the innocence of childhood.

dcg2252 — 2020-07-29 18:33:02 UTC

My reaction is one of hope for real change.

2020-07-29 18:33:03 UTC

The stories were empowering! We need to allow more discussing with ALL of our students. I still see and hear more Teacher talk (in the UPPER grades!) teachers preaching more than teaching

2020-07-29 18:33:06 UTC

Its very interesting to hear the young people prespective of the current situation with racism

2020-07-29 18:33:20 UTC

2020-07-29 18:33:22 UTC

Resourceful kids. Students need Th e opportunity to hear each other’s stories. “I feel endangered... hunted.... because I’m different.” There’s no need to agree with him or not. Students need to understand his feelings are real.

sad and concern for the world they are entering... they would need a lot of positive input from healthy world viewing individuals so that they understand that the world is complex; lots of bad but also lots more of good

2020-07-29 18:33:25 UTC

I love it! Our future is bright with kids like this!

2020-07-29 18:33:33 UTC

I feel so fortunate to work with young people because they truly give me hope in these times of despair.

2020-07-29 18:33:34 UTC

I think that now, more than ever, it is imperative for teachers to facilitate community building circles in their classrooms in order to discuss these important issues.

2020-07-29 18:34:07 UTC

Resonate

2020-07-29 18:34:08 UTC

Our students need to see this video. I can easily resonate their experiences. I have been racially profiled all my life. Driving nice cars in South LA and being pulled over because how I "look" is hurtful and demeaning! Change is necessary!

Listening to their stories/experiences makes me sad to hear. But this is the reality that they live. What does bring light to this piece is how aware they are of the inequity and the change that they want to bring about.

2020-07-29 18:34:12 UTC

Love hearing student voices. I do have to caution about the statement "colorblind." I feel that we have say this we ignore the history behind racism and the experiences of people of color. In order to address injustices and racism we need to acknowledge they exist.

2020-07-29 18:34:14 UTC

My motivation

2020-07-29 18:34:25 UTC

What I hear the students saying is what I hear on a daily basis from my students. When I tell my friends and family about how amazing this upcoming generation is they almost cannot believe how much school has changed since then.

Reaction 1

2020-07-29 18:34:28 UTC

I love hearing kids say how they are the same. They don’t see the need to have to see differences. It’s innocent and there is beauty to that.

1. It saddens me that our children have to see and experience things that I have not had to as a white woman. It worries me as I have a child who is half Hispanic and how we might be treated unfairly in the future.

2020-07-29 18:34:45 UTC

2. In the classroom, students need a safe place to share. Kind of like the ARTT room in Harbor Me.

There's hope. This reminds me of a song I used to sing in school. I'm old so this is an old song. It's called "One Litltle candle". The lyrics resonate so well nowadays....here's a video and lyrics of that song.

2020-07-29 18:34:45 UTC

Fernando Reyes - Sunny Brae Elementary School (LD- Northwest)

Restorative Justice

2020-07-29 18:34:54 UTC

Students need a safe space to talk about these issues. Social circles are a great tool to having an environment in which they are protocols to safely share their feelings regarding issues such as racism, trauma, anxiety, etc.

2020-07-29 18:34:55 UTC

These students are well versed and understand what the need for change is and why the change is needed.
In the classrooms, teachers need to create an environment where students feel safe to share their thoughts and ideas. Students must be respectful of each others' view points and they must also feel respected. It is important that we allow students to speak and that we hear all of their voices, even the ones that are timid and shy.

Insightful and Hopeful!

carlosartiga — 2020-07-29 18:35:11 UTC

1) The children interviews show that they are fully aware of the social and racial issues we are living at this point in time and they are answering with their own experiences.
2) In the classroom, teachers need be purposeful to make connections to the real world with every lesson. Individual thinking and group discussions need to be very specific to the topic. Opportunities to share and work in groups need to be structured to address specific details of a particular topic so that the students are more analytical of their thinking.

2020-07-29 18:35:11 UTC

As one of the hosts said, it made me hopeful for the future. It made me think we should continue our work at my school site with council, where students get to share their experiences or experiences of others they've witnessed, to bring these discussions to the classroom and honor them.

Center Black voices without having them do the heavy lifting

2020-07-29 18:35:25 UTC

I believe kids are often more compassionate and open minded than adults are. I am glad they are speaking up against racism and sharing their experiences.

Neyda Barajas

2020-07-29 18:35:29 UTC

Part of the reason why I became an educator was because I experienced many inequities as a student in the inner city yet did not realize it till I went to college. My goal as an educator is to learn about my students and to empower them regardless of the deficits they may have. For 5 years I taught a class called South L.A and Me to students at Fremont High School. This has been my favorite class, ever. I had the opportunity to teach and learn about my community, my students, their families, and the resources we have. My students loved this class too.

hsteve1 — 2020-07-29 18:35:32 UTC

These conversations are so important. Hearing these kids makes me feel sad, inspired, and optimistic.
In the classroom, students need to be feel safe so they can share these feelings and experiences about the world they are living in.

The past always gives you a glimpse into the future.

2020-07-29 18:35:36 UTC

It is sad to hear them all share experiences at such a young age.

2020-07-29 18:35:49 UTC

Wow I am so proud of these smart kids. They will pass the message on about all of us being " the same and one day we will all be the same"

2020-07-29 18:36:13 UTC

The kids are very articulate in their thinking.

2020-07-29 18:36:18 UTC

"I feel endangered"

mrslimshobe — 2020-07-29 18:36:23 UTC

This response hit me to the core, being Chinese American as well as having a blended family and much love for children of color. We need to see our students and teachers as family, establishing connections based on love and respect, in order to help break down our many communication barriers.

2020-07-29 18:36:25 UTC

It i

2020-07-29 18:36:29 UTC

It was very admirable watching such young kids speak openly and bravely of the systemic racism and police brutality. Although the younger kids expressed how all people are the "same," they will understand that although we may be the "same," BIPOC are actually treated differently because BIPOC aren't considere the "same"

Powerful

2020-07-29 18:36:30 UTC

I feel that there is hope for us as a nation. Its time for our younger generation of people to step up and replace our governing representatives.

2020-07-29 18:36:38 UTC

Students need opportunities to hear different perspectives, think critically, and share their ideas. They need opportunities to build their capacity to act as advocates for themselves and for others. They need opportunities to celebrate their identities.

This video was very inspirational on how the child are able to recognize racism and understand what is going on in the world today.

2020-07-29 18:36:47 UTC

I love working at my school because my students are so diverse and they work and play together freely. Discussions on current events are important so students can understand what is going on and learn to disagree without anger and hatred.

tlee140 — 2020-07-29 18:36:54 UTC

I felt hopeful that these students are taking a stand for change.

2020-07-29 18:36:59 UTC

Students should have an opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. They should be given the opportunity to share their thoughts with their peers

2020-07-29 18:36:59 UTC

It is sad to hear them all share experiences at such a young age. Teachers need to be mindful of this and allow daily opportunities for students to share their emotions and feelings. Doing a quick check in with students on a daily basis can make a difference.

Rene H.

2020-07-29 18:37:04 UTC

The African American kids responded by stating that they felt afraid. Their parents spoke to them about how to behave when in the presence of law enforcement.
One of the students witnessed prejudice at camp and she reached out to one the counselors to find out how to handle the situation. She did not want to be complicit in systemic racism by being quiet.
We need to provide many books that represent the many peoples of this nation. Plan for reading and discussing topics about differences and similarities between cultures, languages, and backgrounds.

Experiences

2020-07-29 18:37:12 UTC

We need to have open forums and conversations about current events so that students learn how to share their feelings and understand how others see the same things differently and be able to ask why! Many of our students don’t know how to have critical friends whom they can have open discussions with in order to better understand and empathize with people who are unlike them.

Thoughts

2020-07-29 18:37:16 UTC

The children are well aware of the inequities in our society. They have the exposure to facts. I am happy that the news anchor mentioned the word “mess”. Children need to be aware that there is a lot of room to grow for us. Each one of them could be the next leader on the way to make a positive change in the our communities. As a facilitator, giving the students the tools to work with information has a potential to develop critical thinkers and leaders of this world. The video was very touching and positive at the same time.

I thought it was cruel of the students to say her hair took up too much room. What a racist comment.

2020-07-29 18:37:19 UTC

2020-07-29 18:37:23 UTC

These children are already so articulate about what they have experienced and how it has impacted them in their everyday lives.

My guess is that these amazing kids have amazing parents who have taught and modeled kindness and equality. You can use the example of the girl being at a camp and witnessing/listening to racist comments... discuss how and why this girl decided to talk to an adult instead of confronting others.

2020-07-29 18:37:25 UTC

Lilia Perez- Enlightening

2020-07-29 18:37:31 UTC

I think that these children are aware of the current issues and provide insight into their perspectives and experiences. We need to validate student voice and discourse in order to give children a platform to express their ideas in the way that this interview exemplifies. Dialogue is a great way to help our students express themselves and learn from one another.

The classroom must be an open forum for students to express themselves. By creating a safe environment for discussion, students not only learn to express their feelings, but be open to those of others, and learn that you don't always agree and that's ok.

dcg2252 — 2020-07-29 18:37:56 UTC

Ingrid:

2020-07-29 18:37:57 UTC

These children are teaching us that society needs to have a collaborative common understanding to learn how to impact racism/

Question #2

2020-07-29 18:38:09 UTC

I could see how a platform like Padlet would be helpful in allowing students' voices to be heard without the fear of judgement or rejection.

It was insightful to hear it from the voices of children. Opportunities for dialogue of different issues to be discussed.

2020-07-29 18:38:12 UTC

Edith Smith

2020-07-29 18:38:23 UTC

My first reaction is sadness. I don't want kids to feel like that. However, it is amazing how they are not letting it stop them from making a change and being amazing humans in this world. They are standing up for their rights as people and making great moves.

Gloria Nazario

2020-07-29 18:38:29 UTC

My reaction is one of awe because this children are articulate and poised. They have the knowledge and vocabulary needed to make their points. They were able to engage in meaningful discourse with each other and the adult present and provide insight on their experiences.

2020-07-29 18:38:30 UTC

It was a range of emotions. Sadness to inspiring.
We need to provide a safe and comfortable environment. This will be a vital part especially in the new virtual environment we will be encountering.

Juan González

2020-07-29 18:38:32 UTC

1. After viewing the interview of these young students I have mixed reactions. My first reaction is of sadness that many of our minorities and people of color still endure racism. However, this reaction of sadness is quickly overtaken by the feeling of inspiration! Loved hearing how these students have a wonderful outlook of what society can be if we go beyond the color barrier.
2. As educators, I feel that we need to provide our young people an opportunity to discuss the social injustices and issues. Students need to be able to have a safe space to share experiences and use that background and cultural knowledge to enhance each others learning.

2020-07-29 18:38:33 UTC

I really enjoyed what they shared. I was happy to hear them mention that wer are all same/people. I enjoyed Marly's comment towards the end where she says that those differences among us is what makes our country beautiful, amazing, and the people who we are.
Experiences we can provide students are to have those courageous discussions in a safe envrionment where they can share out their ideas.

I.

2020-07-29 18:38:36 UTC

Question # 1 These students are the future leaders of our world. They have so much to say. I wish we could hear more from them.

2020-07-29 18:38:50 UTC

These young people's message should be heard by all over and over. We need to be aware of our biases and need to transform, grow and step up and do better.

2020-07-29 18:38:55 UTC

Moving

michaelmcbride — 2020-07-29 18:39:01 UTC

1. The discussion reminded me of what it was like to be a child and have black friends and not understand that there were people who felt differently about people of color.
2. If children can learn about the context of what they are experience, it might help them articulate their feelings and perceptions.
If people have tools to help them think critically, to read, write, and listen there is a chance we can improve empathy.
In the classroom, children need to feel safe, heard, valued, and that they make a difference. From there we can learn from one another and begin to deepen our understanding of those in our environment and how we impact them.
The HOW is a bit tricky.
PS:
Children know what's up.

Patty M.

2020-07-29 18:39:02 UTC

Watching this clip made me feel emotional and proud and it reminded me how much we underestimate children's knowledge and voices. As adults we often forget to check in with students about how they feel about issues, their experiences connected to what they are learning.

We need to provide ample opportunities to share their perspective without our perspective interfering. We need to give them a save space where they can truly express themselves openly without casting judgment on their thoughts. We need to teach them to engage in questioning when something doesn't feel right.

I am amazed at how clearly the students are able to articulate what they see happening in society and how they can make a difference.

2020-07-29 18:39:03 UTC

Students need many opportunities to share their perspectives in class in a safe space so they develop confidence expressing themselves and articulating their ideas.

We need to provide the opportunity for children to learn about each other and how we are all the same

2020-07-29 18:39:16 UTC

Talar — 2020-07-29 18:39:18 UTC

Students need to feel safe to share their experiences and their experiences need to be validated. Active listening, compassion, and kindness go a long way. I felt very disheartened listening to the experiences of these brave youngsters and as educators, it begins with us to sow seeds of understanding, compassion, and empathy.

These children were very brave to share their experiences. I was so hurt when the first young man said that he felt hunted by society... no way a child should feel that way because of the color of their skin.

2020-07-29 18:39:21 UTC

D. Magana

2020-07-29 18:39:22 UTC

1. Kids shared things that I never really thought about, like the hair issue or the bag clutching. It made me sad.
2. Kids need to be exposed to many images of differences around the world in physical appearance, attitudes, outlooks, ways of learning, and varied personal experiences. Help kids connect with each other in their sameness and differences.

It is great to see the topics with such a strong connection and have students serve as problem solvers.

2020-07-29 18:39:23 UTC

I think that it is so important to give students the opportunity to share their ideas and be able to respond to their peers. They were great and very motivational Loved that the young girl shared that we should widen our circles and its ok to be different.. thats what makes us great!

2020-07-29 18:39:27 UTC

Reflection

2020-07-29 18:39:32 UTC

1. It was heartbreaking to hear the stories of the first two children sharing the experiences they have already had with prejudiced based on their skin color. It was, however, inspiring to hear how they are so resilient. They are already so much more aware about racism at their young age than I was at their age growing up in a predominantly latino community.

2. As educators, we need to continue making them aware about these topics but teach them how to tell the difference between factual information and the "fake news" that easily created with memes and youtube videos. We need to create a classroom environment of tolerance and, especially among our brown students, to help them understand that brown issues and black issues are the same.

These Children Will Change the World!

2020-07-29 18:39:39 UTC

These students are learning to have a voice and they will fight for equity and equality when they are adults. It is sad to see that they are still growing up seeing all the racism, but they are learning how to speak up for themselves. It is truly a blessing in disguise in a way.

I think that we need to create a safe space for students to share out their feelings. Students need to understand that we are all different... and that's okay... it's actually part of what makes us the wonderful and dynamic world that we are. Those differences should be embraced... not shunned. Each and everyone of us has assets that we can share with the world... as individuals maybe we should start seeing each other's assets. In the classroom it is necessary to create a safe space.

2020-07-29 18:39:48 UTC

classroom experiences should be be all inclusive

2020-07-29 18:39:52 UTC

it hurts to hear children talking about our very old racisim that exists.thats why we should talk about our differences constantly and encourage our kids and students to be knowledge able about beauty of our cultural differences.

2020-07-29 18:39:58 UTC

2020-07-29 18:40:06 UTC

#1. Racism does exist and that is what makes this world unique. How much do we know about the situation, the experiences we have is what shapes us. #2. We need to provide opportunities in our classrooms that allow all students to take risks and try to learn from one another. We need provide meaningful and diverse opportunities on current global issues for the student to connect to and feel part of.

We need to build classrooms where students feel safe and comfortable to learn. We do this by creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of community and feels welcomed.

2020-07-29 18:40:07 UTC

2020-07-29 18:40:08 UTC

ldl6843 — 2020-07-29 18:40:31 UTC

The students are aware of the importance of having a voice to support the BLM movement. In the classroom, we need to provide access to the different history perspective.

2020-07-29 18:40:33 UTC

That there's HOPE in our youth. They are the ones taking the reign and trying to make changes happen.
As educators, we need to address our own internal racism, our institutional racism, systemic racism, and plan instruction around racism and anti racism. Learn from each other.

The classroom should be a safe haven for students to be able to express themselves. It should also be a sanctuary where we celebrate our differences.

2020-07-29 18:40:52 UTC

S.Wong 1. The stories shared by the students are powerful and need to be heard by everyone, including educators who have the responsibility to empower them. The video truly shows that our students of all ages are watching, listening, and understanding. There is no such thing as "too young".

2020-07-29 18:41:22 UTC

2. The types of experiences that need to be provided in the classrooms to help young people thrive need to be built on trusting relationships that are mutual. Students need to be given opportunities to express themselves and feel safe and empowered to do so.

2020-07-29 18:41:45 UTC

These kids are our future. We need to continue to encourage the conversation.
In classrooms we as teachers need to be aware of how students are feeling, have open and safe discussions, teach acceptance of all people, and to lead by example.

My reaction to the video is that the students felt safe to articulate their experiences and feelings openly. Creating safe environments where students can share their feelings allows opportunities to learn from one other. This in turn affects change on a larger scale as it brings awareness to important issues.

alinedahdal — 2020-07-29 18:41:48 UTC

I need to teach my students that we may be different but those differences need to be respected, understood and ultimately celebrated.

2020-07-29 18:41:51 UTC

Silva, M Columbus ES

2020-07-29 18:41:55 UTC

The voices of these children are all powerful in bringing importance to the BLM movement. Change is what they want through reform.

My reaction...

2020-07-29 18:41:55 UTC

The video brought me to tears and instilled hope in me that one day our nation will be a peaceful place for everyone that has experienced inequities and blatant racism.

Students can read literature about the struggles other people faced with racism or be asked to interview their parents. I thought the boy talking about what his father shared with him was very powerful.

2020-07-29 18:41:55 UTC

Veronika M

2020-07-29 18:42:06 UTC

#1. Racism does exist and that is what makes this world unique. How much do we know about the situation, the experiences we have is what shapes us.

#2. We need to provide opportunities in our classrooms that allow all students to take risks and try to learn from one another. We need provide meaningful and diverse opportunities on current global issues for the student to connect to and feel part of.

Yolanda Serrano

2020-07-29 18:42:15 UTC

I am so proud of these kids. The will definitely make a positive difference in their world around them. Our future leaders for sure! Classroom experiences should be warm, positive loving and all inclusive of socio-cultural and language backgrounds.

The students shared powerful messages that are honest and bias free. Adults need to consult with kids more often!

2020-07-29 18:42:17 UTC

These young people are our future. It is inspiring to see them grow up in a world where they are not so self absorbed but dedicated to making it better for all.

2020-07-29 18:42:19 UTC

Gloria Nazario

2020-07-29 18:42:33 UTC

Clearly students need to have the opportunities to speak in a small group, large group, with adults, so that they become confident in their abilities to do so. They need to be given the structure and vocabulary that is needed to generate meaningful conversations. By vocabulary, I mean words to identify how we are feeling.

2020-07-29 18:42:57 UTC

My reactions was "Do the kids really have someone explaining what is REALLY happening" Many people post BLM or No one should be racist but even as an educator, I have heard and witnessed Macro aggressions and prejudice among staff of educated colleagues towards students. I think to myself how a young lady at the age of 15 had to start a campaign just to get "BLACK" culturally relevant material in the library! Was the school not focused on this? Did the librarian miss the mark when ordering books. Safe spaces are definitely needed for our students to be and to speak and to be heard regardless of one's own personal agenda or feelings toward a matter or subject.

Brave

ixg6003 — 2020-07-29 18:43:02 UTC

The students are so young yet so brave to speak up. They shared their fears and thoughts about Black Lives Matter and shared how racism is outdated, how it doesn't make sense and has never made sense. Teaching topics about relevant issues, current issues, is what will help our students feel connected to the world around them and make connections to complex texts as well. It will also provide them with the opportunity to engage in academic discourse.

We need to provide opportunities for students to talk about real world experiences and things that are going on in the world so they can learn from another.

2020-07-29 18:43:03 UTC

2020-07-29 18:43:21 UTC

Students need to feel safe to express their ideas. They need a variety of different opportunities in order to do that.

The students in the video shared some very heartfelt words that had great meaning to them.

2020-07-29 18:43:40 UTC

I loved hearing from these students, but as teachers we need to make students feel comfortable to express themselves and share their point of views and culture. I wish everyone thought we are "all alike", but that is not the case so we need to discuss these differences and teach the students how to make a change in the world.

Sweet, but work to do...

exs6544 — 2020-07-29 18:43:43 UTC

As sweet as it was to hear the children, we still have so much work to do. It's not going to "go away." We must work diligently to address bias, racism, and brutality. Economic and social changes must work in tandem to support citizens of color every day.

I love the fact that students are involve and understand the injustices. More than anything are speaking up.

2020-07-29 18:44:03 UTC

My reaction is that it is nice to know that kids now a days are aware of their rights and have a concept of everyone is equal. Classroom teaching should include teachers encouraging students to voice their opinion or answer and not be afraid to be criticized if the answer is wrong.

2020-07-29 18:44:22 UTC

2020-07-29 18:44:42 UTC

It is important to sometimes ask kids simple questions of 1) how are you doing? And 2) what are your thoughts? That is how we will address the Social Emotional needs that many are concerned with. These kids had a lot of insight to current events and need to be listened.

Melissa Superior Elem.

2020-07-29 18:44:42 UTC

We need to provide students with a safe places to express themselves without fear of being judged and our teased. They need to know they are accepted for every part of themselves and their cultures.

2020-07-29 18:44:56 UTC

The children interviewed expressed what they have heard from others and what they have experienced first hand. While it is dismaying to hear some of the experiences they've had, it was also very encouraging to hear them say "we are all the same" because ultimately that is what will bring all of us together. We need to provide safe spaces for students to have these discussions in a productive manner. Being to able to discuss their experiences is extremely important as is talking about what brings us together and what makes us a community.

LISTENNG TO OUR STUDENTS

2020-07-29 18:45:06 UTC

Students need to know that we are listening to their ideas/opinions and that we value their personhood.

Share the similarities and differences

2020-07-29 18:45:07 UTC

We as educators have to teach mutual respect for each other.

All of the children have excellent talking points, and they are very much aware of the problems occurring today.

2020-07-29 18:45:14 UTC

Video

2020-07-29 18:45:17 UTC

Children will express what they see and hear. They have a voice and they need to be heard.

Embrace and respect differences

2020-07-29 18:45:23 UTC

"All these differences are what makes our country beautiful and amazing and makes us the people that we are."

Hope in our future

vtorres45 — 2020-07-29 18:45:24 UTC

Kids were very honest and it's a great discussion starter to use with the students, PD, or Parent Workshop.

2020-07-29 18:45:25 UTC

1. Remarkable video and stories these students. They know what is going on and I am glad they are working through it and try and make a change
2. Tellong stories, lifeexperinces and ways ofdealing with it

I felt disheartened when the young boy described how he felt endangered. I thought of myself at his age and the carefreeness I enjoyed when going out to play with my sister and friends. It's unfair the injustices that are present in our country, city and neighborhoods today.

2020-07-29 18:45:27 UTC

I also felt encouraged that these students are learning to be brave and bold and to share their feelings honestly and respectfully.

As educators, we need to provide students with more experiences to develop empathy for what others experience and to also develop safe forums where students can respectfully share their thoughts.
Cristina Molfetta

video

2020-07-29 18:45:27 UTC

I think it is important to realize that kids know what is happening in the world more than we often give them credit for. One of the easiest things that teachers can do is to provide cultualry diverse literature in the classroom.

My reaction to what the students shared is one of hope. I really hope these children grow up and stay strong in these beliefs and take action to ensure we have a better outcome that what we see today. It is too easy to be influenced by peers and social situations and change our views. This is what I think is a problem today. When we grew up as kids we had the same thoughts and feelings as these children, yet those thoughts and beliefs somehow disappeared for so many. I wish people could see this and be inspired to stop seeing the differences in each other and see that we are all the same.

2020-07-29 18:45:34 UTC

2020-07-29 18:45:51 UTC

My initial reaction was sadness, that kids this young feel the way they do.
We need to provide equitable experiences for all of our students, so that school can be the place they don't feel different with the opportunities that are given. We need to show our students that we believe in them and their abilities to become great leaders and take on amazing careers.

It was good to hear that all that the kids responded positively and share the belief that we are all the same. I think one way to further this in the classroom would be to provide more opportunities to explore this notion through literature

2020-07-29 18:46:01 UTC

#BlackLivesMatter

CliftonPosey — 2020-07-29 18:46:17 UTC

We just celebrated the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth and this is still our reality; the current state of our world is beyond sad, scary, and heartbreaking. Hearing the children speak encourages me to continue to rise up, build my cultural literacy so I can empower myself, my children, my students, and use my space to be a better activist educator.
Children must see themselves reflected in the books they read, their curiosity must be nourished, confidence in their own voices must be encouraged and when students are a minority group within a minority group the responsibility must not land on their shoulders to be the bridge builders and spokesperson for their culture/race it is the responsibility of the educator to learn and support children with feeling safe in their learning environment. Also, saying we are colorblind is dismissing portions of who we are and the assets we bring with us to our learning; skin color, culture, ethnic background are valuable assets we must celebrate and acknowledge not dismiss to force assimilation, these are some of the characteristics that make our human quilt so rich and diverse and our learning experiences unique and worthwhile.

first I am encouraged by their courage to share their honest thoughts and feelings. I liked what the girl said about advice on speaking out. She said to ask oneself how much they know about the situation, to educate before speaking out. She is also the same student that is trying to get more books into schools about children of color. Giving students opportunities to read these books and have discussions is important.

2020-07-29 18:46:24 UTC

Inspired

2020-07-29 18:46:32 UTC

I am in awe of their strength and courage. I am inspired to see what I can do to contribute to social justice and change.

So Pure

2020-07-29 18:46:38 UTC

I love hearing from kids because they are so honest and see the world as it should be. I believe in offering diverse experiences and exposing them to different cultures. This will allow them not only to celebrate and appreciate their own culture but others as well.

As teachers, we need to make all students feel like they are our personal children

2020-07-29 18:46:41 UTC

When I walk into a classroom I am always amazed at the beautiful faces in front of me. They have so much of life ahead of them. My goal is to teach them as I want to be taught, treat them like they are my own child, mentor them as if they will someday rule the world, and make them have an experience that is a positive memory and a learning success. My kids are the world's next leaders and we should NEVER forget this. The hair incident made think of when I first started teaching. The girls would always come to share lunch with me in the classroom. They were girls of all races, and some not even my students, but students from other classes. One day a little girl wanted to touch my hair to see what it felt like. So I said ok. She expressed how soft it felt, and then all the girls wanted to touch it. One said, Miss, we have never felt a white person's hair before. I just chuckled. We discussed this for many lunches afterwards and they were so glad to have this experience. I was glad they felt comfortable to ask.

Brings me hope that with a new generation comes new attitudes and tolerance for others. The LA area is so diverse that we must continue to take advantage of our ability to expose students to a variety of cultures in an open minded and inclusive way.

2020-07-29 18:46:58 UTC

2020-07-29 18:46:59 UTC

Racism is learned - and so often it's because of the environment and the culture we grew up, and the societal systems that promote it. These students can see the truth because their opinions haven't been clouded by everything else and they demand that we, as the adults and participants in the systems, make the necessary changes to improve life for all people.

sad

2020-07-29 18:47:03 UTC

it broke my heart to hear the boy say that people clutch their bags as he walks by, he's so young to be experiencing that type of racial bias

R. De La OThese children amazed me with their maturity regarding this topic. To help our students we must begin by valuing them, their families and their experiences in general. We should provide many opportunities where they can express themselves in various topics and in different platforms.

2020-07-29 18:47:04 UTC

Real-Life Exper

2020-07-29 18:47:18 UTC

2020-07-29 18:47:25 UTC

So moving I wanted to cry. I young people need a safe place to have these types of discussions where they won’t feel judged by their peers

One Size Does Not Fit All

2020-07-29 18:47:26 UTC

This video highlights the innate intelligence that our students walk into our classrooms with. However, it also provides educators insight into the many thoughts and ideas that are running through their heads. In secondary education, we often become so overwhelmed with imparting our subject matter knowledge, that we forget that these kids have a lot on their minds, particularly in these uncertain times. I feel that incorporating a safe discussion forum is crucial in all classrooms, irrespectable to the content being taught. Moreover, we need to continuously seek opportunities to tap into our students prior knowledge and experiences on a daily basis in our classroom.

It is amazing what we are able to learn from children when we give them the opportunity.

2020-07-29 18:47:39 UTC

Voice 4 change: i mean they are aware of what’s going on, so it’s necessary to acknowledge and talk about. But they’re of privelege, and their perspective is secondary, even though they have had unpleasant experiences. Nonetheless, they speak truth.

2020-07-29 18:47:44 UTC

#1

axb5385 — 2020-07-29 18:47:55 UTC

The student that was harassed by others because of her hair was heartbreaking. I know how difficult it is to feel different from others, but to have your peers
scrutinize you about your physical appearance can be devastating. She talked about, so I know that there must still be some pain there.

jdg0364 — 2020-07-29 18:48:04 UTC

We need to understand that not everyone is always treated fairly and it is important that there is equality and a safe environment for everyone inside the schools and in the community.

2020-07-29 18:48:06 UTC

Ethnic Pedagogy Vs Reality Pedagogy

Jose Preciado, Coordinator

2020-07-29 18:48:41 UTC

I was very impressed by how all the kids were knowledgeable of the situations that are going on in our country and how they are able to give their opinion and come up with solutions.

Student Voices

2020-07-29 18:48:48 UTC

We need to honor our student's voices. They need to express how they are feeling about BLM. How we can support eachother and how we come together to create change in our classrooms and communities.

I feel hopeful that students were comfortable sharing their stories and had knowledge about the situation. I feel that students should have opportunities in the classroom to have open discussions on these topics where they feel safe to express their opinions.

2020-07-29 18:49:15 UTC

Zika, Kathleen, Beckford Charter

2020-07-29 18:49:38 UTC

When I hear children saying things like it's "scary and disappointing that people like me are being attacked," "I feel endangered, hunted by being different, it's unacceptable," "my hair was dirty and took up too much space," it makes me realize that children are suffering greatly and change must happen.

2020-07-29 18:49:45 UTC

Watching the video I had a range of emotions going through. It was very inspiring hearing these children and at the same time it is frustrating how so much hate and racism is continuing to happen in our world.
I think our students need to continue to have a voice and give their opinions. Through guidance and support, our students can explore situations that are currently happening. Students need to be heard.

2020-07-29 18:50:00 UTC

Students need to be provided with opportunities to learn about other cultures, to share from their own, and to affect the general public. So all students need to be encouraged, and supported, and loved, so they feel confident in who they are.

Reflection

2020-07-29 18:50:08 UTC

1) It is heartbreaking to hear what these children are feeling and experiencing. It is so much for their young minds to process.

2) I feel that students need an outlet to talk about what they are feeling and experiencing. It’s important to provide various forms of methods for students to express themselves. Students can have a writing assignment, they can use art, create a presentation etc.

2020-07-29 18:50:10 UTC

We need to give students voices.

exposure

2020-07-29 18:50:15 UTC

it is important to expose our students to books showing people of color doing normal story book things, in order to make it normal and accepted in their minds. education is the key

A positive take on diversity needs to be explicitly taught through our curriculum, whatever the subject we teach. It is everyone's job.

CarlosVizcarra — 2020-07-29 18:50:15 UTC

Opportunities

2020-07-29 18:50:21 UTC

It is important that our students' voices are heard. This was an amazing opportunity for these young people to express in a safe environment. I believe students need to be exposed to the world around them and be able to feel safe.

gvo4497 — 2020-07-29 18:50:34 UTC

We need to create safe opportunities in the classroom where students can discuss experiences and feelings openly and without judgement. By being vulnerable, they will also learn from each other and learn more about themselves.

We need to create more opportunities where students feel comfortable sharing their experiences of bias. They can relate to each other or put themselves in someone else's shoes to better understand that everyone has different experiences which can be painful.

2020-07-29 18:50:37 UTC

Exposure

2020-07-29 18:50:41 UTC

We need to expose students to the real world and stimulate them to think how they can improve the world around them

Safe Space

ixg6003 — 2020-07-29 18:50:47 UTC

I truly believe that a safe space is what we need to provide our students. They need to feel safe in expressing and sharing how they feel about the world around them. If young people are not provided with a safe space, we will make very little progress towards a just world/society. I also find that providing them with sentence starters and key vocabulary so that they can feel comfortable about what they want to share is key.

Reflection

2020-07-29 18:50:55 UTC

1)It gave me hope for the future. T
hese upcoming generations will get it right. The children are inspiring and the have wonderful insight.
2)Children need to know how to express themselves and how to debate and have conversations. They need to know history as it was not just the one sided history that is presented in most schools these days. And mostly, children need to know/believe/understand that their opinions count and their ideas can be an agent of change.
-Kate Lewis

I had a strong emotional reaction of happiness. There are many students who do not see racial differences between us. We can continue to provide lessons such as this one to support a world full of unity and peace. The awareness is important around knowing there are more people that believe in unity than there are people that believe in racism and division.

2020-07-29 18:50:55 UTC

hope

2020-07-29 18:50:58 UTC

out of the mouth of babes, there is hope for the future

GFlores Title III

2020-07-29 18:51:02 UTC

Teachers need to provide the following types of opportunities | Ethnic Pedagogy Vs Reality Pedagogy

The involvement of young people at such a young age is amazing. They must have amazing parents who foster their engagement. The BLM movement has helped create a force that in a few years they will have the power to change how people view race. I saw this happening with our high school students. They were deeply affected and were energized to make a difference. We are going to see huge changes in our culture very soon and it will be for the better or our society and the world. This is not a USA movement; it is a global movement. Hurrah for our young people and their parents, family, and friends.

2020-07-29 18:51:11 UTC

Elsa

I was in awe to see such young leaders feel comfortable to share their thoughts to the world. Very inspirational!

mxl2025 — 2020-07-29 18:51:18 UTC

Brenda Rizo

2020-07-29 18:51:20 UTC

It is amazing to see these young children being able to express themselves so well.

We need to create to nurture students and provide them with a safe environment. It's important to check-in with students to find out their mental state and support them if they are in need.

alejandraayala2 — 2020-07-29 18:51:22 UTC

Good Start

2020-07-29 18:51:28 UTC

As a black woman in america, this conversation was a good start and this is a great opportunity to address the "we are the same" comment. We aren't really all the same and we can help our white allies gather some actions steps for how to lift up black lives.

It's sad to know that our colored children don't feel safe in their communities.

2020-07-29 18:51:31 UTC

Juan Garcia

2020-07-29 18:51:47 UTC

I enjoyed hearing the student's stories. They see social issues partly through their lenses but as well as lenses from other adults in their lives.
I think we need to provide students with a safe environment. At the safe time we need to provide students opportunities to develop and accept other cultural and race backgrounds.

Brenda Gonzalez

2020-07-29 18:51:51 UTC

I'ts important that students have a space where they can share their ideas and feelings. It's important to also acknowledge and validate their feelings.

Children in the classroom.

2020-07-29 18:52:08 UTC

Children need to be allowed to talk, ask questions, share their feelings, and know that they have a voice. Children need to be told that they can make a difference and what they say matters. Children need a safe environment where they can feel trust and love!

axb5385 — 2020-07-29 18:52:34 UTC

The student that was harassed by others because of her hair was heartbreaking. I know how difficult it is to feel different from others, but to have your peers scrutinize you about your physical appearance can be devastating. She talked about, so I know that there must still be some pain there.

My response

2020-07-29 18:52:39 UTC

Giving opportunities for students to share their experiences and feelings.

Students sharing are very smart and aware... we need to give them lots of credit.

Question 2

jam5838 — 2020-07-29 18:52:58 UTC

We need to provide open ended questions (sometimes in the form of PBLs) that allow students to take what they know (their experiences/ background), add new learning to create something new.

I love that they felt safe and supported to share their feelings. That while they may not understand everyone's perspective that they are challenging ideas and asking questions.

2020-07-29 18:53:00 UTC

Opportunity

lxa6347 — 2020-07-29 18:53:27 UTC

Providing students with a safe platform to discuss what they are feeling and also talk about what they can do to be active problem solvers.

Asynchronous Day 1

baf58021_1 — 2020-07-29 18:53:33 UTC

1. I found kids confused and frustrated and still unclear about the reasons for police brutality.

2.Create a safe student’s environment where their student voice is respected and valued. Also, teach awareness review history with a factual timeline of events that led to this unfortunate event and protests.

I was very surprise to see how aware of what we are currently going through. The solutions provided are so simple to do but challenging to accomplish.

2020-07-29 18:53:36 UTC

It was amazing to hear the perspectives and confidence of these children. They are the future!

2020-07-29 18:53:41 UTC

I was touched by the students simple way to explain their thoughts on racism yet they were also so deep in sharing their experiences. As educators we need to provide a safe platform for students to share their thoughts and experiences on some of these hard topics .

2020-07-29 18:53:49 UTC

Children are perfectly aware of what is going on in society and around them. They need to be validated and heard by providing a means to express themselves and opportunities to address their concerns by offering solutions and become part of the conversation.

2020-07-29 18:53:51 UTC

M. Mancia

2020-07-29 18:53:51 UTC

Watching this video

Hopeful of the future, disappointed that it's come to this point

2020-07-29 18:53:56 UTC

1. I really loved seeing how these students are so passionate and upright in their beliefs, and wish them the best. I do find it disappointing that literal children are being expected to help end this issue--this should've been resolved.

2. Multiculturalism can't just end with briefly touching upon different cultures. We need to implement different ways to help students understand that differences should be celebrated.

Kids understand the problem, they want to do something about it. I think schools/teachers should allow students to openly discuss these topics. Student voices need to be heard and they need to learn that they can openly discuss topics.

els2158 — 2020-07-29 18:54:21 UTC

I do really agree that it can be so simple - we're all human beings. We're all different, but we can all care about each other.

2020-07-29 18:54:21 UTC

I felt so many emotions watching our youth express their feelings about the injustices our BIPOC students and their families feel everyday walking down the street, going to the market, driving their cars. The children shared their honest experiences as BIPOC children and students who see the injustice around them. What they must endure daily just to survive and be heard and accepted. We, as educators, need to reevaluate how and what we teach. We need to BE better and DO better for our students especially now when the equity gap is growing due to the pandemic. We need to sit in the uncomfortable conversations to allow everyone a forum to speak and share.

exl2949 — 2020-07-29 18:54:24 UTC

exg2944 — 2020-07-29 18:54:33 UTC

Students expressed the things they witnessed and experiences.

We need to expose students to literature and information about injustices and inequality in the world we live in.

It's promising to hear these kids..our future.

2020-07-29 18:54:34 UTC

We need to continue to have these hard conversations with our families and friends. Talking about racism should not be a taboo subject anymore

2020-07-29 18:54:47 UTC

When listening to the students, I was saddened by what some students have had to endure in their lives. I was also inspired and encouraged by the students resiliency and positive outlooks to keep working to make our world a just and equal society for all. All of the students are awesome and truly inspired me. As educators, we need to provide opportunities for our students to share their life experiences, and we need to actively listen to learn from our students about to work together to improve the world.

mriver5 — 2020-07-29 18:55:04 UTC

I was blown away by the kids responses. It's such a reality for so many. I think we must provide opportunities to share their experiences so others can learn.

2020-07-29 18:55:05 UTC

2020-07-29 18:55:06 UTC

Saddened that such young children have already experienced racial injustice, but at the same time enlightened that these young children have such knowledge and gain power as they voice their thoughts and experiences.

I think programs like RJ and Harmony give teachers a starting place to build community and responsibility in their classrooms. Kids need a safe place to try life on.

2020-07-29 18:55:07 UTC

We need to provide a safe space for kids to discuss their feelings and ideas.

2020-07-29 18:55:10 UTC

The children on the video are smart and wonderful!! At their young age, they understand the idea that regardless of the color of our skin and the language that we speak at home, we are all the SAME. We are all HUMAN beings and it's not okay to be hurting and killing each other for no reason. It is obvious that someone at school or at home has been talking to these children and instilling in them the ideas of self-worth, acceptance, respect, equality, diversity, and social justice.

ragui8 — 2020-07-29 18:55:17 UTC

Reflection

2020-07-29 18:55:20 UTC

There is HOPE! We need to listen to students more on their concerns and create safe spaces to have open discussions.

I was inspired. Some of the stories were sad and it is horrible that African Americans are mistreated in these ways. But this is our future and I am hopeful that they will be the change that we so desperately need. In our classrooms we need to provide safe environments with structure and protocols. Where students know how to actively listen, respectfully disagree and support their opinions.

2020-07-29 18:55:25 UTC

Inspired

Mrs_Duarte — 2020-07-29 18:55:36 UTC

It inspires me as an educator to know the generations we teach can have an impact in our world.

I appreciate that conversations are being encouraged and that thought provoking conversations are being had. Benito Juarez, the first indigenous president of Mexico said " Among individuals, as among nations, respect for the rights of others is peace." As human beings we all have certain rights. Also as Ms. Hammond expressed we need rigor in thought and in what we present to our students. That is why I believe it is crucial to present all sides of the issues and the perspective of all people involved. Then based on experiences in all our learning environments have conversations and propose solutions and evaluate those solutions. We may not agree, but we need to listen and participate in conversation.

emh7441 — 2020-07-29 18:55:40 UTC

I felt very proud of these kids expressing themselves about a very sensitive matter. As a foreigner, I got surprised when I came here to see how racism is still a huge part of the American society. I consider 2020 a milestone in the fight against racism. The response to the murder of George Floyd was and is very necessary to educate people and change this society. As I said, I feel very proud of these kids. All they need is to have a chance to express themselves and have a voice in the streets and at school.

2020-07-29 18:55:46 UTC

Question 2- Students need to be able to share their experiences orally and in writing.

2020-07-29 18:55:56 UTC

Carolina Martin

2020-07-29 18:56:02 UTC

I was very proud of their knowledge and what they shared. In the classrooms we need to provide ample opportunities were students can feel safe and free to speak about the events that take place in and out of their lives. As a teacher it begins by establishing and nurturing a safe, welcoming environment since the first day of school and continue to nurture that environment. Establishing a safe and welcoming environment does not happen overnight, it takes time.

Students need to have culturally and linguistically learning environment that promotes these types of conversations.

2020-07-29 18:56:03 UTC

I feel hopeful

2020-07-29 18:56:10 UTC

It was a heart moving to watch these young children talking their personal experiences and their own approaches to situation.

2020-07-29 18:56:16 UTC

2020-07-29 18:56:59 UTC

Thank you

2020-07-29 18:57:04 UTC

It amazes me that at such a young age they are aware of what's going on and how they see eachother as being the same. Students should be given the opportunity to voice their opinions in a safe and loving environment!

2020-07-29 18:57:05 UTC

I really found the last comment a perfect ending to the discussion!

2020-07-29 18:57:09 UTC

Many of our students have the same sorts of experiences shared by the kids Hoda Kotb interviewed. But these young people show how identifying a problem and articulating solutions around it is empowering. We can’t disregard our students’ everyday reality, in fact, those realities are often a starting point for real-life problem-solving project-based learning.

Kids are in tune with thier thoughts and aware of what we can do to address the issues. They are fearless and I feel hope for our world hearing them.

2020-07-29 18:57:11 UTC

It's great to see young people think the way they do. We need to teach children to have empathy for others.

2020-07-29 18:57:35 UTC

1. "We are all poeple."

2020-07-29 18:57:37 UTC

2. I feel more time needs to given to students to discuss current situations that impact their lives.

2020-07-29 18:57:54 UTC

It was refreshing to hear these young voices. Parents and/or adults having conversations with their child about these issues was evident.

Just listening to the kids gives me hope for the future. I used to do a lesson in the classroom with eggs, showing students that the outside may look different, but they are all the same on the inside. So, when the kids were saying, "we are all the same", it made me think of this. Yes, we are all human, but it is important to also understand that we are different and that our differences need to be acknowledged and celebrated. We need to allow that space for our students to share who they are and not be afraid to share what they think and feel.

2020-07-29 18:58:05 UTC

it was good to hear what the children had to say and the experiences they have had.

2020-07-29 18:58:07 UTC

Thankfully, kids are much more empowered and in tune with what's going on in the world today and speaking out and teaching each other. We need to help them learn about the differences in the world and how being different is part of life and not to be shamed or punished for.

2020-07-29 18:58:11 UTC

I think it is great to see the youth taking initiative to enact change. it gives me hope!

2020-07-29 18:58:21 UTC

In the classroom, students need to be provided with opportunities to express their ideas, concerns, etc. They need time to collaborate with others to share ideas, or discuss differences. They need access to multicultural books, heroes, pics, etc.

These kids are amazing, as are the kids we teach. Our students need to be given opportunities to read books with characters that look like them, hear from mentors of all backgrounds, and be given opportunities to express how they feel. Right now, we must make this a priority. Kids want to make a difference, and we need to give them opportunities through active projects.

2020-07-29 18:58:22 UTC

AMAZING!!!

2020-07-29 18:58:24 UTC

These kids inspire hope for the future of mankind.<3

2020-07-29 18:58:34 UTC

I am touched with how the students are so well informed about the matter.

Children’s Perspective

2020-07-29 18:58:37 UTC

Stakeholders should always consider the thoughts of children they are direct and are honest responders to any given question.

My reaction to the video is that it proves the belief that children see no color. As adults and as educators we must provide for more opportunities where students can engage in multicultural experiences where they can learn to respect each other's culture.

2020-07-29 18:58:50 UTC

2020-07-29 18:58:52 UTC

I love their involvement with the current events. They need opportunities to voice their opinions and learn about different cultures and biases.

M. Ornelas

2020-07-29 18:59:03 UTC

Children must have safe platforms they can voice their concerns, thoughts, ideas etc. Last year I completed my admin program at CSUDH, and the professor emphasized and encouraged us to speak up to have conversations with our colleagues. As educators we need to let our students know we are aware of what is going on and we are there for them to fight for their rights.

The youth will lead us!

2020-07-29 18:59:21 UTC

Although it is painful to hear young people having these kinds of experiences, I do feel hopeful that they embrace and do not shy away the growing pains we are collectively experiencing, perhaps in ways that many older people cannot.

Exposure to others perspectives is key. This video demonstrates that we are more alike than we are different.

2020-07-29 18:59:41 UTC

Bertha S.

2020-07-29 18:59:41 UTC

I hope that these children and many others learn from their adversities and that they become great, fair, and kind leaders that will change the way society sees people of color.

Children know more than we usually give them an opportunity to share.

2020-07-29 18:59:52 UTC

My reaction is that kids are more aware and knowledgeable then they may be given credit for. Students need opportunities to share and express themselves, especially since they are living in the making of history.

2020-07-29 18:59:56 UTC

Us educators need to provide the outlets for students to explore what they are experiencing and be able to share their viewpoints.
Iliana Palencia

Hope

2020-07-29 19:00:02 UTC

Its sad to see whats currently going on. In spite of the situation these kids have a positive attitude and agreat perspective for the future.

Voice

2020-07-29 19:00:13 UTC

We don't have enough opportunities for students to authentically share their voices. When we find those spaces, we see how much there is still to learn.

It is evident that children are pure in heart. I think it's important to provide them with a safe space to discuss and share their experiences.

sao3368 — 2020-07-29 19:00:19 UTC

Children tr

2020-07-29 19:00:31 UTC

I really enjoyed the video. I think activities like this where our students are prompted to express their opinions are definitely enriching and actually needed to shape the expected outcome of what common sense and empathy should communicate : racism still exits and we need to work to build a future society that is actually color-blind.

2020-07-29 19:00:40 UTC

Carmen San Juan

am in awe of these kids, to be aware of what’s going in our society. They were able to speak about their experiences and offer solutions and problems. I hope that other kids are given the opportunity to hear their message.

2020-07-29 19:00:56 UTC

R. Vega

2020-07-29 19:01:06 UTC

I think there were 2 parts the interview that were the most telling for me. The first is how upset I was when I heard that a young child feels unsafe walking his dog in the evening. The second was the impactful statement the father gave to the boy to just imagine what it is like to walk a mile in his shoes.

Positive Children - Murray Macpherson

2020-07-29 19:01:20 UTC

I liked the positive nature of the children. I think that positivity and kindness will be the foundation of change.

Video Response

2020-07-29 19:01:38 UTC

My reaction is that of hope. It is so refreshing to hear these kids have such a level head and maturity to engage in these serious topics.

We need to be able to expose children to the experiences of others so that they can make connections to their own lives and reflect on what we value as a society and if that is currently being reflected. Students should then be able to offer solutions or opinions/advice.

I think that we need to give our students tools to become global collaborators and activities like these for them to start building discussion tools that they will need in their further education.

2020-07-29 19:01:53 UTC

2020-07-29 19:02:06 UTC

It was very encouraging

Guardedly optimistic because I know these kids are special and hope they can become the majority someday.

2020-07-29 19:02:13 UTC

Include current events in your lessons and given opportunities to share experiences, reactions, and to ask questions to help them understand they have a role in the outcomes.

Veronica Ciafone

2020-07-29 19:02:14 UTC

Having these difficult conversations are necessary.

Young Minds Matter

2020-07-29 19:02:31 UTC

My reaction to the stories shared by the students in the interview is one of sadness and hope. Its disheartening to see that African American children are viewing the lens that has historically been placed on their culture. Unacceptable. It's hopefully in that they know that is not their reality.
The experiences that need to be provided to help them thrive is multiple. Experiences like what is being modeled today is just basic. They need to see themselves included respectfully in curriculum. Additionally, they need to see themselves represented in the administration and leadership. Finally, they will need systemic policy addressing the generational effects of institutional racism.

Janee W

2020-07-29 19:02:51 UTC

I'm glad that the young lady was confident enough to speak up and get books of students that looked like her in her school. She recognizes that who she is should not be undercut. I felt the hostess asked loaded questions.

Tawanna Harrison

2020-07-29 19:02:53 UTC

I can definitely relate to the young lady who spoke about her hair.

It is important to give our students opportunity to engage in these difficult conversations

2020-07-29 19:03:01 UTC

2020-07-29 19:03:08 UTC

Students need to feel safe, respected and embraced for their differences.

Veronica Ciafone

2020-07-29 19:03:13 UTC

We need to allow these types of safe places and allow students to express how they feel.

I was very impressed with the way the children were able to express themselves. I feel that we need to give our students the opportunity to share their thoughts and be heard. We also need to provide them with opportunities to interact with a variety of people so they become more open minded and accepting of others.

2020-07-29 19:03:16 UTC

2020-07-29 19:03:34 UTC

My reaction is that of hope. It is so refreshing to hear these kids have such a level head and maturity to engage in these serious topics.

Sharon LDNE

2020-07-29 19:03:37 UTC

Classrooms need to be a place where all learners are respected. Respect needs to be modeled from the adults on staff and emphasized in the classroom among peers.
Incorporating books, videos where students see diversity and collaboration among all as the norm and not rare or isolated occurrences.

It is important to ask children how the feel and think about what is happening in the world around us today. Their voices need to be herd and we need to know how different situation affect them personally.

2020-07-29 19:03:46 UTC

1. It made me feel positive to hear the students share-out because they are coming to the table with innocence, yet- are able to understand some of the harsh realities we are faced with.

2020-07-29 19:03:46 UTC

Tawanna H.

2020-07-29 19:03:53 UTC

Students need opportunities to share their thoughts and their questions.

It's important to have these conversations with our students. If we expect to see change, it will only happen if we start with them.

2020-07-29 19:04:03 UTC

2020-07-29 19:04:13 UTC

Nice to see young kids sharing their experiences so that folks get a fresh perspective. We would all be better off if we took the time to listen to each other in earnest.

children need to be immersed in diverse situations and learn how to respect differences in beliefs and ideas.

2020-07-29 19:04:26 UTC

R.Vega

2020-07-29 19:04:33 UTC

I think that classrooms should provide spaces for students to learn critical thinking that gets to the root of issues instead of just reacting to events. It's also important to teach empathy through active listening and paraphrasing and lastly, to allow kids to explore solutions to problems they feel are significant and need fixing.

Interesting. It's important that students think about what is happening in this world

2020-07-29 19:04:50 UTC

J. Kosoy

2020-07-29 19:05:00 UTC

It is wonderful to see our youth show such respect and kindness. I think we need to focus more on how we are similar as opposed to how we are different. Differences should be celebrated, but in the end we are all human. This is what we need to focus on in the classroom. We need our children to feel like they are save to be who they are. We are all the same, because we are all different.

PAUSE & REFLECT!!

2020-07-29 19:05:00 UTC

Loved the way the young lady said she could have said something but it would have made it worse. We need to teach our kids to PAUSE and REFLECT!

2020-07-29 19:05:02 UTC

This was very inspiring yet sad because it is the year 2020 and these young children are still having these experiences and conversations. In the classroom we need to bring in diversity and culture so that everyone can connect to their learning one way or another.

Children's Voices

2020-07-29 19:05:03 UTC

These kids are pretty inspiring but I feel sad that they need to consider all of these things. I wonder what we can do now so another generation doesn't need to be doing this again.

2020-07-29 19:05:07 UTC

My reaction to the videos was hope. These children provide us with hope of what our future will look like. We need everyone to think like them and be accepting of all colors. We need to have these conversations with our students, so they can hear each other and other students in our country.

I love

2020-07-29 19:05:08 UTC

this was good

2020-07-29 19:05:19 UTC

I loved hearing how aware they are of whats going on and how positive they are about how we should all seeing one another.

2020-07-29 19:05:33 UTC

Exposure to other groups, literature, pbl. music etc.

As a POC I feel saddened that many of these children feel like victims and believe the false narrative that is being fed to them from all angles. i think we need to provide time for them to have open and honest discussions, however we need to provide factual information, such as the real statistics of police encounters, as well as keep our political opinions out of the classroom. We need to make ALL students feel empowered and not made to feel like victims.

2020-07-29 19:05:37 UTC

I am hopeful for the future. I want everyone to be realistic in their assessment of the situation. We did not get into this mess in one day or with one person so it will take time to change. Do not dismiss another person's experience simply because you have no personal knowledge. I feel that happening to me all the time.

Student Voice

2020-07-29 19:05:39 UTC

My first reaction was what a beautiful and uplifting segment. As a teacher I would want to probe these ideas further. For example, Hoda talked about the students being "color blind." I would really want to deconstruct that word and talk about that school of thought. What does that mean? Are we really color blind? Is there another word that would be a better description? We aren't blind to the color of our skin. Should we be blind to their skin...or their experience? Also, Hoda mentioned how they kept talking about how they felt they were the same. What does that mean? While we are human, and important to recognize our sameness, it's also important to celebrate our diversity. The most treacherous acts in human history begin with fear. The fear of what is different than our own experience. Therefore, I would teach students that understanding and appreciating differences is important as well. When we learn, we need to learn through human diversity.

This just reminds me of why I became an educator. I experienced so many inequities and never felt like I had a voice. It is important to guide and empower our students to speak and advocate for themselves. This beautiful group of diverse students brings hope and light during these very difficult times.

2020-07-29 19:05:46 UTC

Students need to be taught the history of our country, the importance of people that have stood along side the Civil rights movement throughout our country's history.

2020-07-29 19:06:05 UTC

Ofelia Ochoa

2020-07-29 19:06:25 UTC

Students need safe opportunities to speak their thoughts, feelings, fears, understandings. They need to be given opportunities to show/know that their voices are important.

The Unheard Voices

2020-07-29 19:06:25 UTC

This was such a beautiful clip to watch. As a parent, it gave me hope for the future of my own kids being part of the BIPOC group.

We need to provide a safe space for students, teachers, staff, and everyone to have those conversations and work collaboratively in ensuring we all do our part to end racism period.

2020-07-29 19:07:00 UTC

2020-07-29 19:07:07 UTC

I agree with one of the young ladies, it’s important to speak up. Sometimes we choose to stay quiet to avoid conflict. It’s important to speak up when we see injustices and we should also encourage our students to do that in a peaceful way.

I feel encouraged that those students understand that we have "humanity" which counts more that color or race. And that it's important to advocate for everyone to be treated fairly.

2020-07-29 19:07:32 UTC

Young students are aware of inequities and brutality and need a way to express themselves constructively. Our classrooms can be forums for students to discuss and express themselves about these injustices in order to make sense of them.

2020-07-29 19:07:53 UTC

Teachers must provide more real-world examples to use as conversation starters. "Ripped from the headlines" as it were. Things that they see and experience; it is important to provide a safe space for digesting, discussing, and sharing ideas and providing feedback or a different narrative - aside from the subjective points of view perpetuated by the media.

2020-07-29 19:07:55 UTC

Hopeful! We have to have these types of conversations with our children and students.

2020-07-29 19:07:56 UTC

As I listened to these students, it made me think that if we teach respect, acceptance of others, and dignity we could make a drastic change in society. These students all mentioned that we are all the same and if we all work together and make little changes than we will begin to see a better future for other generations.In a classroom, students should be allowed to share their opinion respectfully and accept others’ points of view and come to a consensus of what will make that classroom in which they are in safe place for nurturing relationships.

lrc7414 — 2020-07-29 19:07:58 UTC

Surprisingly, I shed tears at the end of this interview. These kids are innocent and honest about their experiences.

dfn6361 — 2020-07-29 19:08:00 UTC

2. Students needs Culturally relevant academic and social experiences to learn to value their own culture as well as other cultural groups.

I think these kids are understand that we are going through some difficulty in this country when it comes to racism. As educators we need to provide a safe platform for them to discuss their feelings and ideas, and to feel free to ask questions about things they don't understand.

slr7366 — 2020-07-29 19:08:45 UTC

As educators, we need to provide opportunities for students to express their thoughts and ideas about resolving racial issues. They can set the example for others who struggle with it.

2020-07-29 19:09:02 UTC

Hope for the Future

aaa0723 — 2020-07-29 19:09:08 UTC

The students in the video generated hope that the future is definitely going to get better. The students were very articulate and they expressed themselves in a comfortable manner. They thought of everyone as the human race.
This points to the fact that we need to let our students express who they are and how they feel on issues. Students have a lot to offer if we recognize their strength and not instill or force our own values on them. They have a voice that does resonate. Their thoughts, feelings and fears are real. We need to continue to let them use their voice.

2020-07-29 19:09:09 UTC

The students verbal in what they have experienced so far in their lives. At school we need to provide as much literature and discussions.

Degma Guzman part 2: the types of experiences we need to create in the classroom is Restorative Justice protocols, like harm circles.

2020-07-29 19:09:14 UTC

There needs to be a space in this national conversation about racism for voices and experiences of kids

2020-07-29 19:09:53 UTC

Virginia Oropeza

2020-07-29 19:10:16 UTC

All children are smart. All children can learn. All children have a voice. It most definitely depends on how they choose to share that voice, and as long as we provide them with the resources to do just that the possibilities are endless. Children are resilient. If they know that we are there to support them, in all, and everything, they will be amazing. This video is evidence of Vygotsky’s quote at the beginning of the training.

I think that these children see the injustices that has been bestowed on African Americans and they have a pure understanding that it is wrong. There are lots of ways how we as educators can provide age appropriate discussion about race, by reading books, articles like Kids Time Magaizine, etc

2020-07-29 19:10:42 UTC

It is great to see student understanding of a change without violence.

2020-07-29 19:10:48 UTC

Aware of whats going on.

2020-07-29 19:11:12 UTC

I think the opinions expressed by these young teens indicates their awareness of what is going on in this world at this time. I am amazed at the knowledge they have about the issues. The types of experiences needed in the classroom are more open conversations where students can freely express their feelings and opinions. We need to create safe and comfortable environments for all students.

2020-07-29 19:11:16 UTC

It's so important that the adults in childrens' lives are capable of recognizing their own biases, and the biases of others. Adults need to consistently work with children on treating others with respect and dignity. These students have had adults in their lives that have ignited that learning and understanding.

Language and Race

2020-07-29 19:11:21 UTC

1) Here is an example of young people who are being encouraged to interrogate, share and discuss their experiences with race and racism in the world. They're developing the language to do it. 2) Young people need to listen to each others' stories. They need the opportunity to interact and share in a way that builds empathy. They need adults who model how to talk and listen in a way that creates safety and values our students' lived experiences. They need to see their classroom work as connected to their lived experiences. They need to experience a greater sense of belonging, connectedness and agency through their classroom work.

2020-07-29 19:11:26 UTC

Hearing from those 5 students brings me hope for the future. As educators, we need to provide students with platforms to engage in these conversations. We need to create safe spaces for students to feel comfortable to speak their truths and grow from each other’s experiences.

Reflection - Viridiana Siordia, Gage MS

2020-07-29 19:11:38 UTC

1. It makes me happy to see all these youth being activists.
2. I think it's important for students to experience having conversations about these issues openly without judgement so they can learn more. It's also important to expose students to different cultures and traditions so they are more well rounded and able to understand and empathize with others. If they can find similarities between each other, they can begin to understand and appreciate others and their experiences.

It sad to hear that children have to feel this way. I know that I also have to tell my children that because they are boys and brown they have to always comply to a police officer because just being Mexican-Amer. and boys could put them in a bad situation. So I can only imagine how parents of African Amer. feel when raising their children. Glad that the children of today are openminded and embracing change.

2020-07-29 19:11:54 UTC

I am impressed with the courage that these children had in going on the news to discuss race. The video reminds me that we need to continue to provide safe spaces where students are able to talk about and share their perspectives. It's interesting that we hear the phrase that "we are all the same", when the reality is that race matters a whole lot in the systemic oppression of people in our country that has been going on for hundreds of years. By confronting and providing space for children to talk and make sense of these issues, the less it will be hidden, and the more that we will be able to do to challenge racist systems that are in place in society.

danielle_grasso — 2020-07-29 19:12:10 UTC

It's important to listen to their voices and experiences

2020-07-29 19:12:24 UTC

We need to be open, vulnerable, and have these conversations with our students. Have a space where they can be free to share their thoughts, and experiences. Students need to see this video as an example on how to have a healthy conversation.

2020-07-29 19:12:32 UTC

2020-07-29 19:12:47 UTC

The thoughts expressed by these young people give me hope that the US may begin to acknowledge the harm it has inflicted on people of color. It may find a way to reconcile the differences and begin to treat everyone as equals.

Students should be provided accurate historical information so that they con learn what their ancestors contributed to America. They must also have this information to prevent them from becoming apathetic and then become doomed to experience the horrors of the past. Students must also use the historical knowledge to derive strength and understanding of their own importance, stand in their own truth, and become the leaders they are destined to be. As educators it is up to us to guide students through the hurt and the pain they will experience so they come out on the other side ready to take up the mantle of their own greatness.

So Young, So Aware

2020-07-29 19:12:55 UTC

Teachers and students BOTH need to have conversations about the daily realities of black and brown (and other) students and how that affects being ready to learn. It's crucial that as hard as this topic is to discuss, that it makes it into Restorative Justice circles, writing activities, etc to understand and acknowledge these experiences so that they don't get swept under the rug. These experiences are not often talked about in the classroom and need to be in order to empower affected students and put what teachers might see as apathy in school into perspective. Working through these issues is crucial and as we find ourselves in a prolonged teachable moment about these issues, teachers need to be responsible leaders in these discussions.

Bright Future

rnr0607 — 2020-07-29 19:13:26 UTC

These children reminded me that everythig will be better in the future. They will will create a future that is less racist and inequitable. I am very hopeful. Thank you!

We must speak up when we are confronted with racism and must teach all of our students to speak up as well.

2020-07-29 19:13:50 UTC

They are aware of differences and they understand that our country is hurting now and want to speak out.

2020-07-29 19:14:12 UTC

2020-07-29 19:14:37 UTC

First, I was proud to see them being active and speaking out for change.
It was realistic but sad to hear how Aiden faces more dangers based on the color of his skin and having to keep a mental note on what no to do in order for society not to see him as a threat.
In class they need to be allowed to speak up and share more their point of view.

We need to provide opportunities for students and families to express their feelings, thoughts and experiences.

2020-07-29 19:15:07 UTC

Its a sad reality that parents have to speak to their minority children about "How to behave in public" 1. Be careful. 2. Know your rights. 3. Never disrespect a police officer. As teachers we need to empower our students by teaching their history, discussing racism, and ways to make a positive change without violence.

2020-07-29 19:15:19 UTC

"Endangered because I am different" , a very strong statement quoted from a young african american student. He is aware that racism exists and how it affects him.

2020-07-29 19:15:39 UTC

2020-07-29 19:16:26 UTC

It's encouraging to see youth have the ability to articulate such important ideas at such a young age. Life cannot be off limits in the classroom, rather it must be integrated.

Children are the Future

kterezon — 2020-07-29 19:17:19 UTC

I love the idea that students can see other children

Pam Enriquez

2020-07-29 19:17:45 UTC

Children are absorbing everything in their environment. It is nice to see parents get involved to help guide their children's uncertainties. Teachers also get involved by helping and guiding students understand what is happening. I feel that as educators, we need to embrace our differences and respect all. Allow for student discourse and discussions to allow for student to become advocates.

Classrooms need to be safe environments where students they are accepted. Part of this is providing students with a diverse set of books that reflects them and other multi-cultural perspectives.

2020-07-29 19:17:58 UTC

Gonzalo Ramirez

2020-07-29 19:18:14 UTC

We need to always provide a forum for students to present their feelings and anxieties and have them validated.

2020-07-29 19:18:28 UTC

Kids need a safe and intellectual envirionment where they can feel comfortable addressing issues, finding solutions, sharing personal beliefs, and being creative. Teachers also, need to be up to date with current events and and have somewhat of an idea of what students at their grade level are interested in so we know how to ingnite learning more effetively.

These students are incredibly inspiring, and it is heartening to know that they represent the future. Our students need exposure and sustained and meaningful interactions with others to build relationships. This is, of course, substantially more than seeing people who do not look like them, come into their communities to "help" them. Communities must broaden so that we all see ourselves as one - with a variety of valid and valuable contributions and perspectives.

2020-07-29 19:18:34 UTC

I was impressed with all these children but especially Marley. She was very poised and self aware. Racism does exist. In the classroom, we need to acknowledge that racism does exist. We need to allow students to ask questions and have discussions with their peers

2020-07-29 19:18:42 UTC

tt

2020-07-29 19:19:11 UTC

2020-07-29 19:19:49 UTC

1) It's amazing to hear kids speak about important issues that will affect their future.
2) We need to give children the opportunity to learn, listen, and discuss various topics that are relatable to them.

Lisette Curiel

2020-07-29 19:19:49 UTC

1. I’m glad children are speaking up and sharing their fears and hope for the future.
2. Being Culturally Responsive and understanding the student’s background and culture. It’s important to engage students in literacy that relates to them.

My reaction is one of sadness and pride. I'm sad because our children have to go through feeling endangered at a very young age. This systemic racism goes all the way back to when the slaves were freed. When they had to look down when they crossed paths with a white person, being call "boy" and "gal" as adults. It's hurtful. My pride comes in that the children of today don't see color. They want to learn about other races and be friends with them. They understand that this country is built with all cultures in mind and was established by people who were persecuted in their own country. The types of experiences in the classroom should focus on positive aspects of every culture. Visit these countries virtually and connect to other students around the world have Round Table discussions.

2020-07-29 19:20:33 UTC

Students are learning. As difficult as this may all seem it is groundbreaking and new path finding. We must see the new learning opportunities!!

2020-07-29 19:21:23 UTC

Students need to be exposed to what is

2020-07-29 19:22:06 UTC

A Mile in His Shoes

danicapogue — 2020-07-29 19:22:52 UTC

I'm proud of these kids who are interested in these injustices, learning how to speak up, and becoming politically active. I really liked how Rosalee received feedback from Marley about her response to injustice. It reaffirms my commitment to getting kids to share their ideas and experiences about social issues and learn from each other.

As I watched the video and listened to the youngsters, I felt a sense of optimism and hope for the future. However, this feeling was quickly confronted by the realization that this video did not address the sentiments, life experiences and opinions of so many other children who are also living in these unprecedented times. Where are their voices? When do they get to be heard? It is essential that all youngsters are offered the opportunities to contextualize, explore, discuss, and interpret their current worlds and feelings, not only in their homes but schools as well. I believe schools must create safe and respectful learning environments that do not shy away from uncomfortable topics but look at these as teachable moments that students will be able to recognize/apply in the real-world.

2020-07-29 19:22:55 UTC

Students need to be exposed to what is happening and allowed to share their thoughts/opinions.

2020-07-29 19:23:15 UTC

Virginia S Create connections that help young people thrive

2020-07-29 19:24:16 UTC

Relationships are the heart of what youth need to learn, grow and thrive. Relationships will contribute to development because young people discover who they are, develop their abilities to shape their own lives, and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them.

Genzy Garia

2020-07-29 19:25:08 UTC

Hearing these children speak on a topic that many educators are afraid to bring up in their own classroom was great. Their awareness to things we see everyday but a time s look the other way.
Racism exist and we need to come together and see that we are all people and its beautiful to have different cultures in our world.
The type of experiences that need to be provided in classrooms are a safe environment where students values are respected. Where they are able to share with no shame and feel valued for who they are and what they bring.

sxg4269 — 2020-07-29 19:27:05 UTC

1. My reaction to their stories is one of pride and admiration for their eagerness to speak out and do something about the injustices they see around them.

Cassandra Johnson, 112th Street Elementary Cassandra Johnson 112th Street Elementary Emotional, Proud, Hopeful

2020-07-29 19:28:23 UTC

Emotional, Proud, Hopeful

I think that children need to have a safe space to share their experiences. They need to have more factual knowledge about their own cultures history. We need to also have children find creative ways to find a solution to making a positive change in the way our country views race.

We should all really be one race, the human race.

Nancy Delgado HMS, LDE

2020-07-29 19:28:46 UTC

It's always great to hear students give their perspective on big issues. By providing our students a comfortable/safe learning environment it allows students to express themselves and also listen to others.

Mirna Tapanes

2020-07-29 19:29:01 UTC

These kids understand more about being a good human being than some adults. They are awesome! Racial inequality and discrimination must always be fought if we ever want a better world for all.

Recognize and appreciate difference

2020-07-29 19:29:35 UTC

I think it's important to help young people understand that, while it may seem like the fair thing to see everyone as being the same, it's important to celebrate differences. These kids have good hearts and they want to accept everyone for who they are, which is where the idea that "everyone is the same" probably comes into play. They mean we're all people, we have things in common, we can get along. But as they mature, they will also be able to see...for example, the white boy will see that he doesn't have the same fear or anxiety about encountering law enforcement officers, or that people don't react to him in the same way as they do when he is with his Black friends. It's an ongoing learning process, and the more different kinds of people we know, they more open our minds are and the more we know about what it's like to walk in their shoes.

Reaction: Lately I have been thinking about the "other" side. These kids ideas have been shaped by the people around them that have a relationship with them or that have developed a relationship with them. Long ago it occurred to me that children rely on the people around them. In terms of the "other", there are also kids who believe the opposite. Although I am encouraged with these young people I cannot help but think that if we do not promote leadership among our diverse students or unless the future leadership reflects the diversity of our society we will have the exact same system of inequality that we fight against. It is important to investigate our systems as a collective because I believe we fight a system of oppression rather than each other.

2020-07-29 19:30:20 UTC

Surayyah Muhammad

2020-07-29 19:32:17 UTC

1. I was both saddened and hopeful after seeing these children interviewed. I am hurt that they even have to experience the evils of this world but I am glad that they have a better perspective than their predecessors.
2. Students need opportunities for discourse within the classroom. They need to be able to express their opinions so that they can learn to accept each other's differences.

2. Students need a safe and supportive environment where they can speak up, ask questions and share ideas with one another on any topic. We foster the actions of participation and engagement in the world right in our classrooms. We create environments where ideas are discussed and reasoned which will translate into confident, thoughtful and eloquent communicators as adults.

sxg4269 — 2020-07-29 19:32:19 UTC

These students are clearly affected by the racial tension that surrounds them. They can clearly express their experiences and all have been affected by upsetting racial events. However, I am bothered by the statement "we're all the same." This goes back to the idea of equity vs equality. We are not all the same. Acknowledging that we are not the same while celebrating our differences creates equity. We have to look at our differences to see how we can be equitable.

sheila_reid — 2020-07-29 19:32:26 UTC

Classrooms need to provide experiences that enable students to solve problems due to systematic racism. For example, student can research a community that has suffered economic losses due to systematic racism. Then develop a plan that provides an equitable solution. Students can then present that plan to community leaders in the form of a written proposal or a speech at a town hall meeting. They can see how getting involved in the community and political process works toward the benefit of others and themselves.

Hearing "Hunted because of different" resonated with me. These young people with the help of their parents are feeling the pressure from society and are learning to act accordingly. Giving them a safe space to not only address problems but discuss how they can solve them are helpful for them to relieve frustration as well as help their classmates with coping skills and ideas for addressing problems of behavior and interaction. -TJ

2020-07-29 19:33:00 UTC

Amazing to hear such young people speak so wisely. As educators we need to create opportunities for our students to voice their opinions and feel validated.

cec9290 — 2020-07-29 19:34:21 UTC

A diverse library of multicultural literature needs to be available so students can be exposed to different backgrounds and races.

jcreed2 — 2020-07-29 19:36:07 UTC

2020-07-29 19:38:42 UTC

1. I think it's wonderful that these kids are speaking up.
2. We need to continue to have these conversations with students.

Peggy Lew

2020-07-29 19:38:50 UTC

Students need to be heard. So having as many opportunities to share the mic and validate that they matter is so essential in the classroom. With remote learning, teachers have this great opportunity to use these tools that record individuals' voices in a powerful way.

Provide students with opportunities to share, validate, and value

2020-07-29 19:40:03 UTC

Microaggressions are real!

2020-07-29 19:41:48 UTC

These young people make me feel proud as a multiracial woman. They have learned about and/or experienced the harsh reality of living in Amerikkka. They experience or know people close to them who experience racial microaggressions, are actively being the change they wish to see in their worlds by seeking solutions and ways to combat racism. Bravo!

We need to expose our students to children all over the world and highlight their similarities based on actions not on skin color or looks.

2020-07-29 19:41:51 UTC

I think it's good for kids to share about talking to a parent or an adult - talking with one another is also important and we need to provide opportunities for that. I liked the advice given by the oldest, to pause before jumping in to a situation - ask some questions, get some information.

2020-07-29 19:44:30 UTC

I think narrative writing opportunities can support our efforts in helping students share and hear the experiences of others.

Terry O.

2020-07-29 19:46:15 UTC

1) I think students benefit when they see/have other students as role models. These children are role models in their courage to speak out on a sensitive topic (especially on TV) and in their ability to articulate their thoughts and experiences. I would love to show this video to my students to generate reactions, thoughts, and ideas from them.

2) I work at a school that is not very ethnically diverse. When I took my students to the Gene Autry Museum for a field trip and they saw other students from other schools, they saw students who did not look like them. At the field trip, they saw more diversity. I want to say they were in culture shock. My students did a lot of staring, err observing. Seeing people with different ethnic backgrounds interacting with one another was new to them. So for my students, field trips are vital so they can see what’s outside their neighborhood. Field trip opportunities can expose them to people, places, and events they have no/low experience with that can help them understand the world they live in and broaden their horizon. In addition, I believe having class discussions on current events are necessary to help our students understand what they see on TV (and hopefully, read in newspapers) as well as hear from other adults. I want my students to be informed of the issues and form their own opinions rather than just “copy” the thoughts of the people they hear. Furthermore, I think it is important to create a class where students take time to know themselves as well as know their peers. I think it is difficult to ask students to express their ideas if you don’t give them time to know what their ideas are by doing research and sharing personal experiences to be able to reflect, analyze, and synthesize their thoughts to make important connections. Moreover, I think giving time for students to know others (know their classmates) will help strengthen their own opinions and open their minds to other thoughts that they weren’t aware and knowledgeable about. Knowing what happened to others reshapes one’s ideas.

Learning Begins From Home.

2020-07-29 19:46:35 UTC

What you model at home is what young minds will see and emulate. Same goes for the classroom and school site. Educators need to be role models and ensure they are providing safe learning environments for all students.

These children have a strong self of identity and are not afraid to be themselves. Even if apprehensive to speak up, going to a trusted adult is moving forward. The children are so supportive of each other. I 'm encouraged by their knowledge and genuine and open nature.

2020-07-29 19:48:06 UTC

My reaction to the stories shared by the students include a sustained hope in our efforts for a more equitable society. Intentional discussions and activities that foster love through action.

sharon_alston1 — 2020-07-29 19:48:52 UTC

It was nice to see that they all have strong identities and they do not see color lines. They are all just people. We need to have constant conversations in our classrooms about societal issues and let students have a voice.

2020-07-29 19:50:36 UTC

Rey Munda

2020-07-29 19:50:54 UTC

We need to continue to motivate students like these to be change agents for their environment and society. We need to give them the tools to communicate and collaborate.

Children have a clearer picture of what it means to be judgement free.

2020-07-29 19:54:28 UTC

One of the comments that resonated with me was the 15 year old stating the other students are very young and still haven't seen how difficult it is for African Americans. I agree because it appears as these young minds grow, adults and peers in their environment create those ideas of hate that they might not of thought about before. It appears that the older you are, the concept of morality/fairness gets muddled up by negative input.

Sandra Larios

2020-07-29 19:56:28 UTC

One of the things that was very clear in the click is that young children are need to heard and valued, especially our children of color. Also the 15 year old pointed out something that needs to be repeated over and over, that being different is what makes each person special.

rch0271 — 2020-07-29 19:58:32 UTC

I'm always so blown away about how much courage and intelligence children have. I think that the only way to foster this type of inclusion and community is to continue to have diversity in our classrooms and curriculum. We have to provide time for our students to learn about one another in order for them to find commonalities.

The kids was very insightful to be so young and they were for injustice. We as educators can use age appropriate reading material to introduce what is racism and start a discussion of awareness and what we can do to try to educate people who have a mindset of racism. I don't believe racism will every disappear but we can at least have an open dialog so kids can see at a young age its a disgusting evil entity in our society.

2020-07-29 19:59:36 UTC

Voices of change

2020-07-29 20:00:50 UTC

The young people spoke with so much confidence and grace about a topic that is scary for most adults to engage with. We have to think critically about our curriculum and how it is being presented and the space we must create for marginalized voices and stories to be shared and valued. Their backgrounds, cultures and histories matter and it's up to us to make that known and felt from day 1. I think about our newcomer students and how important it is to celebrate the incredible diversity and range of experiences within that population. We bond over it and learn and grow together because of it.

Student Voices

2020-07-29 20:06:13 UTC

I think we, as instructional leaders, need to ensure that our teachers provide opportunities for students to find and cultivate their voice. Moreover, we need to celebrate and validate their experiences. The next level of impactful practices would be providing forums where they can display their work.

Flynn

2020-07-29 20:06:34 UTC

2020-07-29 20:07:17 UTC

It's makes me both sad, and hopeful. Sad that these children, especially the little boy, have to go through these experiences and feel the way they do; but I feel hopeful in that they can change the world. One mind, heart, person at a time.

We need to bring this type of real world visual text into the classrooms and have rich discussions. Have them learn to write, learn to read, while learning about things that really interest them and matter. So much of the text that we use is irrelevant and at the end of the day makes no difference. Let's start using text that has real world implications, CLR text, can lead to children that are engaged and thriving.

"From the mouth of babes"

2020-07-29 20:07:31 UTC

Once again, the youth has given me hope that things my in fact change. It is important that we as educators don't turn a blind eye when there is something uncomfortable happening in real life. We NEED to use those events to foster genuine learning and the genuine desire to learn. The diseases of racism, discrimination, bigotry will never be completely eradicated --but we can overshadow them and teach children how to rise up, embrace themselves and their voices, and help elevate those who have been oppressed.

Student Voices

pxg7807 — 2020-07-29 20:09:40 UTC

Students need an environment where they can feel safe and build confidence to be able to
thrive.

Young Leaders (Teresa)

2020-07-29 20:11:50 UTC

1. I think that many times we underestimate what our students are able to assimilate and comprehend. They understand complex issues and with guidance from adults they can have discussions and come up with possible solutions to moving forward.
2. I think it is important to have opportunities to engaged and collaborate in structured conversations around current issues that are relevant to students. Students have a voice and if we create an environment that allows for expression and freedom of speech in a respectful manner students will feel more inclined to engage in discussions. Children learn from the adults they are surrounded by; therefore, as educators we play a crucial role in allowing them to be inquisitive and grow in our classrooms.

karina_nichols — 2020-07-29 20:12:39 UTC

Recognize and highlight POC and contributions. Lead with excellence in all areas to change the negative narrative that they might encounter and they can form their own understanding. Black history does not start with slavery. We need to educate ourselves in order to educate our students.

2020-07-29 20:15:44 UTC

Hope for the future

2020-07-29 20:24:59 UTC

These children are amazing and so mature and insightful. All children need the type of environment in which to develop such confidence and empathy. Such qualities are needed, especially in leaders.

Listen

2020-07-29 20:25:03 UTC

It is important to give students a safe space to share their thoughts without judgement.

Terri Lee

2020-07-29 20:26:17 UTC

Children are very articulate. They are able to express their feelings and thoughts.
In the classrooms, teachers need to nurture students' thoughts and ideas. Teachers must provide a nurturing and safe environment for all students to share. We want all students, not just the ones that are great at sharing. Educators should encourage all students to share out their thoughts and have an intellectual conversation.

The students responses were quite profound and insightful about social justice and racism. As educators, we should provide opportunities for students to express their thoughts and ideas about social justice and racism. Furthermore, we should provide an environment that promotes equality and differences in culture.

mgamboa18 — 2020-07-29 20:29:27 UTC

I think their stories are powerful and believe that these students are examples of agents of change for young people in this country. I also think these students stories can be used to empower other students who are in similar situations. I believe that these students are leaders and lead by example.

2020-07-29 20:34:39 UTC

Javier Ramirez

2020-07-29 20:35:28 UTC

This really exemplifies how important our jobs are in inspiring and continuing to nurture our youth to be able to follow their passions and help them create the world they want to live in.

2) What types of of experiences need to be provided in classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the worlds they live in?

hxa0487 — 2020-07-29 20:35:50 UTC

Students need to feel they can trust their teacher and their classmates. This obviously takes time and well-developed social-emotional lessons that help the student feel a part of the class community. The teacher must facilitate with thought-provoking questions to engage their learners in meaningful and respectful discussions. Through sharing personal experiences, students hear what their peers are going through, and that bonds them together. Sharing joyful moments or some tears, bonds the students and teacher together as one. This builds trust over time, and allows for them to agree or respectfully disagree with others with the appropriate background knowledge.

Inspiring

2020-07-29 20:37:06 UTC

I was inspired by the knowledge and level of understanding displayed by the little ones.

OLGA ARAUJO These children bring hope to a troubled world. As educators it is our duty to combat racism and the inequities that exist in our society. One of the ways we can do this is by teaching culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy. We need to expose the students to multicultural literature, ethnic studies and project based learning so they can learn about and engage with people of diverse cultures. Our students need to learn the true history of our country from an early age, learn from our past mistakes and learn about the positive contributions from people of all races. Skype in the Classroom is another tool we can use to have our student engage in real world projects with students of diverse backgrounds. By learning about other races and having positive interactions with them we can begin to break down stereotypes and see each other with compassion, empathy and understanding.

2020-07-29 20:38:54 UTC

2020-07-29 20:40:22 UTC

Sometimes kids have a much clearer vision that adults especially regarding race. I wish we could really tap into this since they will one day be decision making adults.

We as adults could learn from kids how to treat one another. I love that they all have an open mind. One question I have is how do we help our kids/students circle of friends become diverse for those that still live in segregated communities due to economics?

2020-07-29 20:41:14 UTC

2020-07-29 20:42:05 UTC

We need to give kids relevant prompts and the freedom to work through them. We also need to provide them with current and accurate history which is SOOO lacking in the American education system

ecn7848 — 2020-07-29 20:42:46 UTC

The students were very articulate. Unfortunately, they have each had to experience racism in some way.
Our students need to be given many opportunities to share their experiences and ideas in the classroom.

Miriam Cano

2020-07-29 20:44:19 UTC

It is inspiring to hear younger students talking about these types of issues. I think they have a great head start on change that needs to happen. I love their open minds and appreciate that there are parents who are teaching their children by example.

I think it is great that these children are able to speak on the current issues. While I acknowledge it is essential for all students and people to be treated equally, we must also be able to acknowledge our differences and embrace them as assets.

2020-07-29 20:44:59 UTC

Rosie Romero

2020-07-29 20:46:13 UTC

Student voice is critical, especially during this time. We have many students who are hurting and this is the perfect time to hear their voices through their stories. Curriculum can now be organic and charged with thinking!

Julie Charbonneau

2020-07-29 20:47:48 UTC

It’s heartbreaking for me to hear that they feel frustrated and feel a sense of danger. I did appreciate the level of hope these students have for the future!!! I think it’s important to develop the skills to express how they are feeling about the world around them by ensuring clear expectations of speaking from the heart and from a place of kindness. It needs to be a safe environment and devoid of judgement.

Judy Quintanilla

2020-07-29 20:49:06 UTC

it's awesome to see students speaking up. As an educator, we need to give students opportunities to safely express themselves.

2020-07-29 20:57:59 UTC

I appreciated the young girl who wanted to say something to the group of campers, but didn't want to make the situation worse. Marley said she did the right thing because she didn't have all the information and that she was right to go to the camp counselor.
Our kids do need information and a safe place to process it. Knowledge and knowing what to do with it is powerful.

Vanessa Farrington-Zapata

2020-07-29 21:12:38 UTC

It is encouraging to see students this young have a strong sense and understanding of who they are. Setting a tone of acceptance and creating an environment that fosters empathy for all is key.

Lopez

2020-07-29 21:19:01 UTC

I truly respect this form of engagement where student’s voices are being heard.

Melodie Hong

2020-07-29 21:22:17 UTC

Empowering students to use their voice and form their ideas on how to evoke change is how we can start change in the right direction.

Catalina Silvestre

2020-07-29 21:26:00 UTC

The children in these videos represent not only diversity in culture, but also diversity in the way that they are able to think and create systematic change. Change start with people that want to change. Hearing the students speak about what they experience in society and the things that they have to worry about creates a disheartening feeling. However, these same children are able to smile. We as educators need to create safe environments where, understanding, trust, and acceptance pay a part in building the personalities and shape of our students. We need to know who our students are, what they desire to be and so many more components. We need to foster relationships.

It is amazing the insight that these students have regarding what is currently going on in our country and around the world. It was remarkable how well they articulated their ideas and experiences, but it is sad to hear that they have experienced injustices, at such a young age. Creating a forum for our students to discuss these views will empower them to make a difference for themselves and their communities.

2020-07-29 21:37:10 UTC

Courageous Conversations

hernesto_meza — 2020-07-29 21:57:28 UTC

Hearing the kids was really great. I think they however are defining a color blind society. While the idea of color blindness is a good one, it denies/does not give credit to the lives our students to face as people of color. Color blindness really only works if the whole system is colorblind which is what I feel the kids are referring to. The opportunities we can provide to students is exactly to do what they did in this video have conversations about what is happening and listening from a point of view of understanding and wanting to learn instead of from a perspective of defensiveness. having courageous conversations is key to really making change last. It is the only way that we can enact change.

2020-07-29 22:08:09 UTC

How can we move from "We are all the same" to embracing everyone's differences instead of pointing it out and using it as an excuse for racism, violence, and hate?

It takes courage to tell your story.

2020-07-29 23:10:35 UTC

Juan Magdaleno

2020-07-29 23:25:53 UTC

It is important to create safe classroom and online environments that allow such discussions, understandings, and friendships to occur.

Conversation Time!

aguill11 — 2020-07-30 00:34:02 UTC

What resonated with me was the student who shared his dad's experience as a black man. When he walks down the street people clench their purses or cross the street. He does not feel safe walking his dog after dark for fear of being stopped or targeted. It is the implicit bias that we talked about at last year's MPI. Fostering real life discussions, writing assignments, etc that are relevant to the students in my class. I have seen greater participation and engagement when the activities are relevant to the students. We can still address the standards and bring in social justice into our curriculum.

This is what I miss the most, hearing our youth. They are such important voices that need to be heard. I learn from them!

2020-09-15 17:56:40 UTC

The kids were super insightful and really thought about what was going on around them

2020-09-15 17:57:06 UTC

Paula Eckert

2020-09-15 17:57:23 UTC

I miss my students . I learn from them and they learn from me. From the mouths of babes...

1. I feel so frustrated and helpless when I hear kids sharing their stories. I feel this way in a sense of not being able to help. I know that not all parents have conversations with their children. This is not because they don't care, but, because they do not have the knowledge or the ability. How are all the kids understand what is happening around them and why?

ixs5816 — 2020-09-15 17:57:24 UTC

2..We have the opportunity to work with our students and impact their lives not only in the classroom but also in their everyday lives. I am happy to know that I can incorporate certain issues into my teaching or support the teachers I work with their instruction. To make sure that the class time is not just delivering instruction based on the curriculum and standards. It is connecting with our students and taking every bit of time spent with them educating them about the world around them.

Voices of the future

2020-09-15 17:57:27 UTC

These kids are very insightful.

Hearing the voices of our future sounds very promising. I like the direction these youth are headed. Making everyone feel validated and heard in the classroom with snowball into them feeling validated in their communities and snowball into greater equitable things.

2020-09-15 17:57:29 UTC

So many times children reflect what they see and hear from the media and other adults. Sometimes their opinions are formed not based on truth or reality.

2020-09-15 17:57:41 UTC

2020-09-15 17:57:52 UTC

1. Even at such young ages, kids are seeing, feeling, experiencing judgement based on their color and appearance. WOW
2. Students need to provided with experiences to express how they feel and see things, can be during advisory.

Judy

2020-09-15 17:58:08 UTC

I think it is sad that children so young already feel unsafe and victimized because of their race. I also think that they are remarkable young people who will make a difference in the future. The message that they have is one of optimism and inclusion.

Reaction

2020-10-05 18:13:03 UTC

While I loved listening to these five children and their positivity, I think that as adults, we are not hearing all that our students have to say. I started following a "Dear ....." high school account this summer, in which students recounted their experiences with racism, homophobia and sexism from their peers and from their teachers. Some of them had reported what happened to them, but felt that nothing was done. Many of them had never reported what happened. Meantime, we, the parents, have been blithely believing that because it is a diverse high school with seemingly strong and independent students, that this stuff was not an issue. We need to have spaces in our schools where students can talk about these issues safely and we need to have these spaces when students are young, so that these discussions become part of their regular, overall habits. And we need to listen.

Reaction:

2020-10-05 18:16:39 UTC

I think, it is vital to step back and let the experiences and narratives of students frame the classroom. They are processing a world with 1-systemic/institutional racism and oppression, 2- are in a global pandemic and our jobs, as educators, is to help them grow and support them in their knowledge and curiosity
.

As educators we have to support identity development, address inequity and provide opportunities for social justice at school sites.

2020-10-05 18:24:25 UTC

We have to facilitate conversations around racism!

LISTEN TO THE CHILDREN

2020-10-05 18:38:52 UTC

We need to make time to listen to the students and children for them to share what they are seeing, feeling, hearing, experiencing, doing... so that we can get their point of view and hopefully act (make change)-it's their world and their future we need to improve on.

Jorge Parra Jr.

2020-12-07 19:58:49 UTC

It is powerful when we give our students a VOICE to express, share, and feel valued. It is frustrating that children feel scared because of how they look but it is up to us to empower them so they continue to speak up with us alongside them. We need to provide our students with opportunities to engage in conversations but with opportunities to learn how to research points of view.

2020-12-07 20:31:26 UTC

It was moving to hear these young educators talked about this sensitive subject that we as adults sometimes place on the back burner

2020-12-07 21:36:29 UTC

I am so happy to see that a network as big as NBC is interested in “hearing” about the experience of today’s youth, as we address the role race plays in the the inequities that still exist in our country. I thought Honda’s question about whether it’s time for us to make our circles bigger (so that we can learn about our common humanity) was poignant.

2020-12-07 21:44:14 UTC

Allowing students to collaborate/communicate can provide everyone with amazing insights. For example when the young lady mentioned her hair story. I can totally relate! Extended communication with other grade levels and other schools can help our students thrive. Teachers being a facilitator is key to student centered instruction.

S.Keaton

2020-12-07 21:51:19 UTC

2020-12-07 21:53:49 UTC

Hoda Kotb on TODAY show What is your reaction to the stories shared by any of the students in this interview? It made me hopeful to hear what the students had to say however I agree with Marley that the younger students probably hadn’t experienced many of the obstacles they would run into as they grew to adulthood. Saying we’re all the same people, is a nice sentiment, but it is important to be an anti-racist and to actively work to abolish racism by examining our practices as educators and our general attitude toward people of color. Institutionalized racism is alive and kicking so it is important to always be examining situations using anti-racism as one of the lenses. If racism is seen, it is important to call it out whether the racism be intentional or unintentional. What types of of experiences need to be provided in classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the worlds they live in? It seems that the first step to take is to actually talk with the students, poll them and involve them in several activities to hear their voice around what experiences they think they need to be provided. Then, as Jacqueline Woodson says, “In order to change the narrative, we need to know the narrative.” so after providing classroom experiences the students request, the next step might be to offer some lessons that focus on what is racism, some of the history of racism in the US, the history of racism around the world, the experiences of people of various races, and ways one might become an anti-racist.

sxk5031 — 2020-12-07 21:57:15 UTC

1.
I was initially hopeful to hear what the students had to say, however I agree with Marley that the younger students probably hadn’t experienced many of the obstacles they would run into as they grew to adulthood. Saying we’re all the same people, is a nice sentiment, but it is important to be an anti-racist and to actively work to abolish racism by examining our practices as educators and our general attitude toward people of color. Institutionalized racism is alive and kicking so it is important to always be examining situations using anti-racism as one of the lenses. If racism is seen, it is important to call it out whether the racism be intentional or unintentional.

2.

It seems that the first step to take in order to decide what types of experiences need to be provided in the classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the worlds they live in is to actually talk with the students, poll them and involve them in several activities to hear their voice around what experiences they think they need to be provided. Then, as Jacqueline Woodson says, “In order to change the narrative, we need to know the narrative.” so after providing classroom experiences the students request, the next step might be to offer some lessons that focus on what is racism, some of the history of racism in the US, the history of racism around the world, the experiences of people of various races, and ways one might become an anti-racist.

2020-12-07 21:58:04 UTC

It is important to give our students a voice. Our students should be given ample opportunities to share their experiences. We, as educators, should provide a safe environment and allow our students to discuss topics of interest.

Megan Mena- It was moving to hear these five kids speak. I was both saddened and hopeful after hearing what they had to say. Saddened that they had experienced these inequities at such a young age. And hopeful that they are using their voices to promote change. If our youth are this understanding of each other and willing to stand up for others, our future definitely looks bright! As adults we need to continue nurturing and promoting this kind of change.

2020-12-07 22:14:37 UTC

Future leaders of tomorrow, future leaders of our county. These are well spoken students. These students are change makers at a young age. It is never too young to educate our students about racism.

2020-12-07 23:03:52 UTC

It is sad to hear the student say he did not feel comfortable walking his dog at night.
We need to provide an opportunity for our own students to use their voices in the classroom. We need to make them feel comfortable in their environment and we need to prepare them for the culture shock that they might experience once they get to hight school or college. We need to provide our students an opportunity to meet other students from different nationalities and have conversations with one another and learn about different cultures. We need to open our students eyes to the truth about racism at an early age so that they don't developed biases as they grow.

It was amazing to hear these children speak!

lda4815 — 2020-12-07 23:15:45 UTC

As educators we need to provide our students a safe. and supportive environment were they can speak up with out any fear of being judge. They need to know that their voices matter!

Response to the Young Protesters

2020-12-07 23:16:56 UTC

It was eye opening to hear the young kids talk about the current situation. One of them made the point that it is hard to talk about something without all of the information. That is why I believe that giving all students a forum to express their concerns, doubts and opinions is the best way to approach addressing some of the
most difficult topics facing society.

CHildren

2020-12-08 01:27:30 UTC

As a parent, I know I try to shield my child of all the injustices that goes on in the world and we try to filter out the negativity to keep them innocent. But seeing these young people really opened my eyes. My daughter has her own experiences that she will go through. I hope that she will never experience the cruelty that exist in this world. But in case it does happen, I know that those experiences wll shape who she will be in the futre just like these young brilliant minds in this video.
It is important that we take student voice and there stories into account when we teach sensitive subjects in our classrooms.

Great kids, who see the world or have the awarness of racism and what we can do to sto it. They know that our diversity is an asset and to learn to accept each other differences makes our world place to live in. I bring this up because of our present situation by President Trump in how he has divided our country and states that the other people kkk are good people too?

sxd0230 — 2020-12-08 04:06:08 UTC

2. What types of experiences need to be provided in classrooms to help young people thrive and be able to express their ideas about the world they live in?

desireepalacios2 — 2020-12-08 13:52:51 UTC

Our students need classroom environments that focus on having rich experiences around cultural awareness. Classrooms that honor the very many different cultures that exist in our classrooms because of our diverse student population so students can see themselves and their families represented in what they read and write about to feel included in the narrative of the classroom and their education overall but also validated and honored. Through these types of activities, students will feel they can relate to the content increasing student engagement while creating opportunities for students to share their thoughts and ideas about the world they live in.

tlee140 — 2021-01-20 22:11:42 UTC