This Read Across America Week, we hope you’ll continue introducing diverse texts to all of your students. We also encourage you to incorporate inclusive young readers’ editions in your curricula and organize social justice reading groups to discuss a diverse range of stories and critical topics alongside students and caregivers.
January 6 marks the first anniversary of a violent, primarily white mob storming the U.S. Capitol. Rooted in misinformation, the insurrection didn’t exist in a vacuum—and the ramifications of the attack are ongoing. These LFJ resources can help you have critical conversations with your students about the insurrection and teach young people digital literacy skills to stop the spread of more misinformation.
Racial oppression plays a significant part in American history, and it’s critical our students learn about it. But this February, we're encouraging educators to reflect on their own practice and ensure that the Black history they’re teaching—this month and year-round—isn’t limited to narratives of trauma. To support that learning, this week we’ll be sharing some of our favorite resources for celebrating the diversity of Black history, identity and experience.
As we remember the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom of 1963, it’s critical not to whitewash this history. Contextualize the campaign and the struggle associated with it, including the impact of the march’s organizer, Bayard Rustin—an openly gay Black man. That also includes complicating the event’s most iconic figure, Dr. Martin Luther King, and his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. These resources can help.