Lisa D., week 7

This week the group came together and  compiled all the information that was collected from the three focus groups. The group themselves and the two high school classes. There was a lot of wonderful information that came through. There was also repetitive  thoughts and opinions that came from each focus group.

When asked the questions of:

What are the gaps or challenges you face?  Response:  Lack of cultural awareness, being forced to fit in, lack of knowledge and communication form others, stereotypes and fear of difference, white privilege, blind racism, preconceived notions, Teachers expecting you to know everything about your country and culture, teachers lack knowledge and drop the ball, and lack of minority representation.

How can we bridge these gaps? Response: Mutual investment in minority groups and stake holders, Educators & administration open to growth with genuine listening, taking in change, and reform,More training programs on implicit bias, awareness and education on cultural competency, Principals, guidance counselors and teachers learn how to make better connections with parents, Teachers engaging in different environments outside a school setting to experience other aspects of culture and diverseness, Letting teachers know to not make assumptions (needing help on school work),undervalue minorities instead asking students if they are comfortable sharing about their experiences in their country or their culture.

What are barriers  and hopes in bridging these gaps? Response for barriers: Fear of being harmed, lack of resources, misunderstandings, lack of white allies, lack of mentors who are of color,stereo types and being told to “stop acting black”Internalized self hatred and fear of making change. Response for Hopes: Restoring culture, knowing that you are not alone, continuing to celebrate what is not being celebrated by the dominant race, Our own cultural celebrations and keeping the human spirit alive.

How can we create change? Response: Cannot be a bystander, continue to create programs that truly involve all people of all cultures, Keep a balance of ongoing dialog,awareness and action, be yourself, be part of writing bill at the state level and knowing history, no judgment, having a voice, question everything,be a good person, mentor, friend, family member and partner and lastly to “THINK LOVE, SPEAK LOVE, BE LOVED!