“Learn how to be an advocate.”
“Don’t be a coward.”
These are two Dr. Gallow quotes I have in my notes from last week. Being brave and being an advocate is important, and I struggle with with it. A big problem I have being an advocate is operating from a stance of “No one is trying to be a bad guy.” When I think someone who is letting their bigotry show is A Bad Guy, sometimes I just get hot under the collar and I go off on them. Then we’re just yelling at each other and getting no where. But if I’m going to operate as a teacher from a stance of “All students can succeed”, I should probably extend a similar courtesy to adults, right? I mean, I’m not done learning either and I would want someone to give me the benefit of the doubt when I do or say something bigoted.
I’m also beginning to see that being a teacher advocate has a broader scope than I originally perceived. It isn’t just about having difficult conversations with peers and colleagues about racism or transphobia, it includes caring enough about my students education to really put in work to best support their learning. There is this great list “8 Ways Not To Be An ‘Ally’: A Non-Comprehensive List” by Mia McKenzie that comes to mind as I’m writing this blog. Here is #6:
“6. Challenge oppression in personal situations but not in systemic ways.
It’s enough that you said something when your Grandma used the T-word. The fact that you go to work everyday at a queer organization where none of the fifty employees are trans* women and you never say nothing about it is beside the point. You’re battling interpersonal “isms” and that’s what really matters. Except…you know…not really. Transphobia, ableism, racism, and all those other phobias/isms aren’t just interpersonal issues. They are hella systemic. And checking your grandma isn’t going to fix them. Think bigger, k?”
I think as a teacher I have an opportunity to challenge oppression is systemic ways. I can practice restorative justice instead of using punitive discipline. I can use research based strategies to best support English Language Learners. I can make school a positive experience for students of color and maybe they will want to go into teaching. I can challenge all of my students academically and help them graduate with a full toolbox. And I can find respectful, effective ways to call out homophobia in the teacher’s lounge. Being an ally is a lifelong practice, so here’s to keeping it up.
What does being an advocate or an ally in your school or your classroom mean to you?
What does being an advocate or an ally in your school or your classroom mean to you?
People keep saying that know matter how hard things get, to always advocate for your students. I can't stop thinking of what Kim said, how she was bullied by the other teachers because she wasn't afraid to stand up for what she thought was right, even if that meant going against her colleagues. I feel like I frequently find myself in a position to do or say something, but I don't have the guts to actually do anything about it. I guess Dr. Gallow know what she's saying when she says "Don't be a coward." I want to be able to fight and stand up for my students, even if that means standing alone.
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