Celebration Over Acceptance.

It’s time we take it one step further from “accepting,” difference and diversity to “celebrating.”

I have always been passionate about creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for our students. However, in recent years, I have come to realize that the term "acceptance" often used in education circles, still carries a negative connotation.

When we talk about "accepting" differences and diversity, it implies that there is something wrong or undesirable about being different. This is not the message we want to send to our young students. Instead, we should be celebrating and embracing differences and diversity.

One way to do this is through storytelling and experiences. Children are naturally curious and eager to learn about the world around them. By providing them with a wide range of stories and experiences that highlight different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life, we can help them develop a deep level of understanding and appreciation for diversity.

For example, at our school, we regularly invite guest speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and experiences with our students. We also incorporate cultural festivals and celebrations into our curriculum, such as Diwali, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. These activities not only help children learn about different cultures and traditions, but they also foster a sense of belonging and community among our students.

Another way to celebrate difference and diversity is through inclusive classroom practices. This means creating an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. It's important to recognize that each child has their own unique strengths and challenges, and to provide them with the support they need to succeed.

We should be striving for more than just "acceptance" when it comes to differences and diversity in our schools. We should be actively celebrating and embracing them. By providing children with a wide range of stories and experiences, and creating inclusive classroom practices, we can help them develop a deep level of understanding and appreciation for diversity. This will not only benefit them now but will also prepare them for a more inclusive and equitable future.