Dear Community
As we navigate these overwhelming times I want to assure you that you have love and support from your Cherish family. I personally, am a firm believer in the good of humanity & that it is the good, that will ultimately win.
As a school, we are taking this space to acknowledge the systemic and institutional racism that continues to harm communities of color. Our society must work to dismantle structural racism on every level. We will continue to examine ourselves, our curriculum and our processes to find ways to do better.
You’ve entrusted me with your children. As an educator, I am dedicated to core values that embody a “village mindset”. I begun this work in Early Education because as a social & systemic reform advocate, activist & community organizer… Early Education was still the ultimate avenue to create the positive change I want to see in the world. It can be hard to undo what is done, but if we give children the right foundation; planting seeds of love, responsibility to all life, right relationship with self and others… etc. the next generation will be prepared to do what needs to be done for future generations. This is getting ahead of it. I hope more preschools will be more intentional in that regard.
I will continue to uplift children and families of color, and to use our classrooms to model for our children; peace, respect, self love, and empower them to be their full precious and beautiful selves.
For some families, talking about race is a regular part of daily life. For others, it’s a subject that can be difficult to discuss.
I want to offer parents and guardians resources to address questions and concerns.
Resources
Books for Adults
White Kids: Growing Up with Privilege in a Racially Divided America (Critical Perspectives on Youth)
POST TRAUMATIC SLAVE SYNDROME
As a result of twelve years of quantitative and qualitative research Dr. DeGruy has developed her theory of Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome, and published her findings in the book Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome – America’s Legacy of Enduring Injury and Healing”. The book addresses the residual impacts of generations of slavery and opens up the discussion of how the black community can use the strengths we have gained in the past to heal in the present.
Books for Children
Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi (June 16, 2020)
This forthcoming story from National Book Award-winning author Ibram X. Kendi guides you and your little reader through nine easy steps that will help build a more equitable world. The cheerful and positive book is the tiny-tyke adaptation of Kendi's groundbreaking How To Be an Antiracist. Ages 3 and under. ($8.99)
Different Differenter: An Activity Book about Skin Color by Jyoti Gupta
Tackling the topics of identity and skin color, Gupta's activity book—which includes history lessons, art instructions, and recipes, among other things to do—approaches the subject in an easy way for children to digest. Ages 5–8. ($24.50)
Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel
There are lots of reasons why kids would put their hands up: Playing games, giving hugs, dancing, high fives! It's what you do when you ride a bike with no hands. It's also what you do when you're at a protest and you join your community to raise your hands in peace and in strength. Ages 4–8. ($17.99)
The Skin You Live In by Michael Tyler
This sweet picture book might be designed for little readers, but it tackles big messages, including the importance of acceptance, diversity and friendship. Through a showcase of children's activities from around the globe, youngsters learn to love the world around them for all of its similarities and differences. Ages 4–8. ($14.95)
Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o
Sulwe has darker skin than anyone she knows—her family, her classmates. She longs to be "bright," but one life-changing journey into the night sky proves how beautiful she is in her own skin. Ages 4–8. ($17.99)
The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander
A prose poem that celebrates African-American culture, The Undefeated is about the artists, athletes, martyrs, athletes, and everyday heroes who have shaped our country. Ages 6–9. ($17.99)
In Closing…
Please put self care high on your list. Our Kiddos are watching, feeling and even discerning with us. Guardians often believe their children are distracted and not picking up on the energies & conversation around them.
Practice critical conversations now, the conversations get easier. Your children are only “too young” to speak about things they CANT comprehend. Do not confuse things you are not ready for with things they are not ready for. Conversation is always about meeting people and children where they are at in a language they can understand. Children understand hurt, kindness, friendship and helping others.
You can shield your child from the challenge while educating them on the solutions. Continue to have conversations, experiences & do projects that affirm your families values.Books for Children
Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi (June 16, 2020)This forthcoming story from National Book Award-winning author Ibram X. Kendi guides you and your little reader through nine easy steps that will help build a more equitable world. The cheerful and positive book is the tiny-tyke adaptation of Kendi's groundbreaking How To Be an Antiracist. Ages 3 and under. ($8.99)Different Differenter: An Activity Book about Skin Color by Jyoti GuptaTackling the topics of identity and skin color, Gupta's activity book—which includes history lessons, art instructions, and recipes, among other things to do—
