Tuesday, December 3, 2013
The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression
When thinking about an incident of witnessing a bias, prejudice, or oppression, a little girl within my school comes to mind. She is biracial and is being raised by two women who are living an alternative lifestyle. She is a precious little girl who is often made fun of because she is mixed and has two mothers. When she is questioned about her situation by other children, I feel very sad for her. When this happens, in my presence, I am able to rescue her by changing the subject or removing her from the scene. I think the more time teachers and others invest in her life and help build her self-esteem, she will flourish and become a very successful young lady.
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Hi Amy,
ReplyDeleteIt is very sad that a little girl at such a young age must struggle with her personal identity. Although it is great that you care and look out for her well being, I don't think changing the subject and removing her from friends is going to help much. If she is going to be in this classroom all year, maybe you should look in to bringing awareness and understanding to her family dynamic. There are books such as 'Heather has two mommies', and 'Oh the things Mommies do!: What could be better than having two?', that may relate to this child as well as inform the rest of the students about different family situations and lifestyles. Thanks for sharing.
Stephanie
Amy,
DeleteThis little girl is lucky to have you in her life! Maybe her moms would be willing to brainstorm with you ways that their family culture might be reflected in the care environment. Maybe they would be willing to send in some family photos or visit the center to have lunch with the group and get to know the other children.
Lisa
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry that the student has to experience that judgment at such a young age. I agree that it may be helpful to teach the students about different lifestyles and families so that they can understand that not all families are the same. You can post family photos of your families around the classroom and note that every student in the class is different, but is an important part of the class family.
Tiffany
Amy,
ReplyDeleteNo child should be made to feel uncomfortable. While I probably tried to protect her from the situation, I do feel it is important to not only educate the children but also the parents about the different types of families. I love Tiffany's idea of using family photos.
Thanks! Christina
Amy,
ReplyDeleteMaybe talking about families and how they are different will make the difference in this child's life. I think by just introducing all types of families and letting the children know that as long as there is love from those families then this is all that matters.
I agree with you Amy. It is sad how children make fun of other children because of the life their parents live. I have no problem with two women raising a child as long as that child get the love and care they need, what is the problem. In today's Society, children are very mean and do not care what comes out of their mouth, but that is good that you take her away from the scene because she does not need children making fun of her
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