Stenhouse is committed to amplifying the voices of Black educators who bring a unique perspective to anti-racism work. Two educators we’re working with published insightful blogs this week in which they dig in to the meaning of racism.
Finding the Courage to Be Specific About Systemic Racism in Education by Matthew R. Kay
Writing on ASCD’s InService blog this week, Stenhouse author Matthew R. Kay called on readers to be specific when referring to systemic racism and he demonstrates the point by citing high-stakes standardized tests as an example of a racist system. “The more specific the conversation gets, the more we move from the comfort of a crowd to the complexity of a commitment to action,” Kay explains.
What is Racism? Unpacking the Seven I's by David E. Kirkland
In an essay on his own blog, NYU professor Dr. David Kirkland identifies seven types of racism. “As the world pauses, reflects upon, and comes to terms with the reality of racism, it’s important, however, to struggle to understand what racism really is, how complex it is, and how it is far more pervasive than some may think,” writes Kirkland, who is partnering with Stenhouse editor Maureen Barbieri on an upcoming book project.
Look for more resources in the coming weeks and months on our website, biweekly newsletter, blog page, and various social media channels as we resolve to shine a light on the important work of Black educators.
About Matthew R. Kay
Matthew R. Kay is the author of Not Light, But Fire: How to Have Meaningful Race Conversations in the Classroom. He is a proud product of Philadelphia’s public schools and a founding teacher at Science Leadership Academy (SLA). He is a graduate of West Chester University and holds a Masters in Educational Leadership with a Principals’ Certificate from California University of Pennsylvania. Follow him on Twitter @MattRKay.
About David E. Kirkland
David E. Kirkland is a professor of urban education at New York University. He serves as the executive director of The Metropolitan Center for Research on Equity and the Transformation of Schools. He can be reached at: davidekirkland@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @davidekirkland.
