We are angry and heartbroken about the continued hatred and violence toward Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders. March 16th’s horrific events in Atlanta have heightened fears and further traumatized AAPI communities. TCRWP stands in solidarity with the AAPI community, and we encourage educators not to stay silent in the face of these racist attacks and white supremacy. Instead, it is critical that we are in dialogue with one another, with our families, friends, and particularly our students. When we remain silent, we enable racism and xenophobia to flourish.
There are several things educators can do to address racism toward Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders. Too often Asian culture and peoples are presented as a monolith. An essential place to start is by learning about AAPI communities and helping students to learn about and recognize the broad diversity of experiences, cultures, language, values, that exist across the Asian diaspora. Also, we need to address anti-Asian language directly and teach students about allyship so all students can be safe in educational spaces and thrive. Further, educators can audit our classroom libraries and teaching materials to ensure that they are inclusive of authentic AAPI identities and voices. Such inclusion increases visibility, affirms AAPI students, and helps all students to recognize AAPI as integral in society.
The following resources can be helpful to become more informed about the surge of anti-Asian hate that has occurred throughout the pandemic. Further, these resources can provide ways to take action to support AAPI colleagues and students.
This is not a comprehensive list of resources, and it is important that educators determine which will be particularly helpful in a specific, local context. As educators, activists, and leaders continue to develop resources, let's share these efforts and work together to make a difference.
Learning For Justice Responding to Anti-Asian Violence and Georgia Shootings Addressing Anti-Asian Bias After Atlanta: Teaching About Asian American Identity and History
Embrace Race 16 ways to help children become thoughtful, informed, and BRAVE about race
Fighting Anti-Asian Violence Resources Anti-Asian Violence Resource Card
PBS Daily News Lesson: Asian Americans face a wave of discrimination during the pandemic