Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/1209300
To develop a structure for the work ahead, Maajid has partnered with Dr. Derrick Gay, a thought leader and educational consultant who has worked in independent schools, businesses and universities in 17 countries across six continents for more than 20 years. In every country, schools are asking a similar question … what are their responsibilities for educating students so that they can be critical thinkers and develop an open mindset for navigating an increasingly complex world comprised of people from various backgrounds? Before diving into the complexities, Gay likes to begin with language. As it turns out, definitions are important. Take the term "diversity" which Gay notes is often misunderstood. "Most people understand it as an identity; for example, a historically marginalized group, like women, people of color, LGBTQ+ or non-Christians." But according to Gay, "diversity" is really a neutral term that means differences, not different. "We need to reframe 'diversity' from referring to a particular person to meaning differences. We are all different to other people. It is both an ideological and semantic shift," he said. "When you redefine it this way, everyone feels included and can contribute to and benefit from diversity efforts." In addition to hosting dialogues and workshops with faculty, staff, parents and trustees, much of Gay's work at Latin has been focused on coaching faculty and staff on framing diversity in alignment with the mission of the school. "We need to prepare students for the knowledge, skills and competencies that they need to flourish and be successful in this interconnected, global world," said Gay. He believes that everything in schools—from literature to curriculum—needs to be a mirror or a window, a metaphor coined by Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop, a professor and researcher at e Ohio State University. "Children need to be able to see themselves—the mirror. But we also need to create spaces where children feel included and can learn about others in meaningful ways—the window. In this way, we can cultivate empathy, which is simply understanding and caring about the feelings of others." "We need to prepare students for the knowledge, skills and competencies that they need to flourish and be successful in this interconnected, global world." Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Eleannor Maajid has created a space for teachers, staff and students to come for support and counsel. 22 22