Our Fall issue has something for everyone. Whether you want to take action in support of undocumented students and families, update your understanding of white privilege, learn about a new lynching memorial’s haunting history lesson, or help your students identify as voters from a young age, these stories offer the background you need to get informed and involved in the issues that affect your students’ lives.
Last week, a 6-year-old black girl and another unidentified 6-year-old child were arrested at their Florida school. The girl was handcuffed and taken to a juvenile detention center. Her fingerprints and mugshot were taken, and she was charged with battery. No child deserves such treatment—and no school should excuse it. Here, we share resources for creating and supporting schools where all children feel safe to learn and grow.
Yesterday, students were pulled from their first day of classes to say goodbye to undocumented parents and guardians arrested by ICE. Our thoughts are with educators and families across Mississippi and with those dealing with this trauma in the aftermath of anti-immigrant violence in El Paso. Yesterday’s raid was the largest single-state raid in U.S. history, but we know that these raids will continue. We hope these resources help you support your students and their families.
Reading about and celebrating African and Indigenous histories and cultures can be among the powerful first steps for children to engage with and expand their understanding of the world around them. And discussing commonalities across cultures helps children develop a strong sense of self and identity while recognizing and honoring diversity. To support these conversations and learning experiences, LFJ offers parents, caregivers and educators talking points, activities and book recommendations.
Do you believe in strengthening our democracy? Do you support a more inclusive society? In responding to book bans, educational censorship and attempts at excluding some communities from public school spaces, Learning for Justice’s magazine and publications offer guidance and inspiration on critical issues in education.
Amid ongoing anti-trans legislation proposals, we urge you to acknowledge, uplift and teach about transgender women on this International Women’s Day—and throughout the year. This interview with transgender activist Hazel Edwards will help you reflect on ways to create a more inclusive environment for trans students. And displaying these One World posters featuring quotes by transgender women advocates will let your transgender students know you support them.
So far this year, more than 80 anti-transgender bills have been proposed at the state level, and much of this legislation targets trans children and youth. As anti-LGBTQ groups and lawmakers attack trans rights, schools must ensure trans students and educators are supported. Use these resources to build policy and help create a safer space for all students who could be harmed by policies that rigidly define and police gender norms.
As we grapple with the impact of violence following shootings in Atlanta and Boulder—and ongoing stressors surrounding the pandemic—it’s important to be mindful of students’ mental health needs and our own. Share resources like the Crisis Text Line with students, some of whom may need immediate support amidst a crisis. And use these webinars to help you respond to trauma, normalize talking about mental health and continue practicing good self-care.