I feel cold

A couple days ago I shared that my area, along with so many others, is embroiled in debate about incorporating a resolution to support equity, inclusion, and anti-racist teaching in our local public school system. 

As intended, I attended and spoke for my 3 minutes at the board meeting for the area public schools on Monday evening.  I was one of the last of the nearly 3 hours worth of comments in the first comment period.  I didn't count, but my experience and impression was that about 70-80% of the attendees and comments were against the resolution.

Signs and comments focused on perceiving the resolution as an intention to "indoctrinate students", as unnecessary, as Marxist, as promoting equity (which was framed as something negative and aversive), and especially, and repeatedly, as a way to sneak Critical Race Theory teachings into the schools.

I haven't stopped processing, there was so much food for thought in how people are perceiving and feeling about these issues.  

To be honest, it was also extremely crushing.  It's one thing to know these misgivings and misinformation is out there, and believed by so many.  It's another visceral experience to witness and breath it in with a room full of neighbors enraged over how integrating equality and affirmation of diverse perspectives will poison their children.  (Yes, poison was a literal word used in the comments).

There's a lot more to put together, which I will do in the coming weeks with information and talking points you can use for these conversations in your own life.  

In the meantime, let's share ideas for connecting in these conversations. Watch my 3 minute attempt from Monday night.  Then, please reply and share your thoughts.  I'd love to hear your feedback.  

You matter.  You can make a difference.  I'm so thankful you're here.