[RSCT] diversity resources

[Martha Matlaw]

Hi Bernadette-
	One place to start is to ask the kids about their own cultural
identities.  I know in my own classroom, if I have 23 white students,
there are usually 10-23 different cultural backgrounds represented among
them.    I've found that 7th graders often have a lot to say about their
roots-- the first part of their "hyphenated" ethnicities/identities: 
Irish-American, Italian-American, Norwegian-American, etc.  Talking about
those opens a door into their awareness of diversity.  
	To facilitate that learning, I've had students introduce themselves to
each other through objects from home that symbolize those identities. They
talk about their connection to their culture/s.  After that, I have them
write a paragraph detailing one cultural practice (even food!).    For
students who are completely dissociated from their cultural backgrounds, I
ask them to write about ANY family tradition.   Then, I have them write
about the same exact topic, but this time from the perspective of an
outsider- someone who knows nothing about that tradition.  They must,
again, use specific details and words to communicate this "outsider"
perspective.  Often, in addition to specific words which are usually
tinged with judgment, students will use words like "weird" and "unusual,"
etc.   It's always interesting to process the comparison between the two
paragraphs.
	I also have students read a short essay written by a girl who learns
about her White privilege at the age of 10.  It's one of the NPR "This I
Believe" essays and can be found at:
http://www.thisibelieve.org/dsp_ShowEssay.php?uid=13261&themelist=race&yval=0&start=10
 
	I hope this is helpful- good luck!
Martha  

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