The Moment Archive

The Moment is LFJ’s online editorial column, which contains articles and content to address what is happening in social justice education—and society—right now.
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Halloween 2019

Every year, we hear of students and educators whose Halloween costumes reinforce stereotypes, bolster systems of oppression or even make light of hate. In these cases, a simple conversation might have prevented a lot of harm. We hope you'll take the time to talk with your students about their Halloween costume choices this year—and think carefully about your own. Here's a place to start.

Teaching in the Wake of Police Violence

Yesterday, the police officer who shot Atatiana Jefferson inside her home during a wellness check was charged with murder. But the grief and righteous anger at her killing continue today. How will you talk with your students about injustice, police violence and the fact that black lives matter? Here are a few places to begin.

Indigenous Peoples' Day 2019

Indigenous Peoples’ Day—still observed as Columbus Day on the federal level—is October 14. These resources can help you celebrate the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples and Native nations. We hope you’ll make space in your classroom for these important lessons this Monday and throughout the year.

Mental Illness Awareness Week

This Mental Illness Awareness Week, we call on educators to see their vital role in removing stigmas that surround mental health issues, normalizing open conversations and recognizing the unique needs of students with historically marginalized identities or invisible disabilities. With these resources, we hope you and your students can take steps toward a world where—like Max at the end of our story "Washed Away"—you feel a little less alone and more prepared to face tough times alongside people who care.

Celebrate LGBTQ History Month

LGBTQ history is American history, and all of our students deserve to know that. This October, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating LGBTQ History Month. Here are a few of our favorite resources for learning and teaching about the contributions of LGBTQ people, including lessons, posters, articles and our podcast, Queer America, devoted exclusively to recovering this understudied history.