In the current global state, and in our work with children and families, it is important that we create safe spaces to respectfully discuss race, racism, and reconciliation. As stated by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (n.d.), “Remaining passive is no longer an option. Engaging in difficult or uncomfortable conversations is the new expectation.”

In an effort to promote positive social change within our community, we welcome you to join Heather Dennhardt, Alex Malachowski, Megan Brown, and Jodi Corbett in taking action to examine and transform our racial knowledge and anti-racist identities.

Some of the ideas that we explored during our first gathering include:

• How can we explore anti-racism with very young children in an organic way?
• Examining white privilege… for example, why are international foods separated at the grocery store?
• “it’s not only what you do, it’s also what you don’t do that teaches…”
• Could  anti-racist pedagogy be embedded into legislation (similar to outside time)

For our second gathering, we will continue our conversation about the article, Exploring anti-racism in early childhood education: Teacher identity and classroom practices. Together, we can continue to unpack Escayg’s messages, including:

• The idea that race is a social construct,
• The difference between anti-bias and anti-racist education, and
• What is the difference between race and culture?

To participate in this conversation, take a few minutes to read the article and e-mail early.years@tbdssab.ca to register.

Rules of Engagement: Creating a Safe Space for Dialogue

(read the full Inclusive Workplace Guide here: https://ccdi.ca/media/2316/20200819-ccdi-inclusive-workplace-guide-creating-a-safe-space-for-dialogue-on-antiracism-final.pdf)

» Assume positive intent; we are all doing our best, to the best of our abilities, with the knowledge that we have.

» It is okay to make mistakes; be humble if you do make a mistake.

» Recognize and value the experiences, abilities, and knowledge each person brings to

the discussion.

» Practice active listening – listen to understand, not to respond. Ask clarifying questions.

» Avoid interrupting.

» Pause and think through your comments before you make them.

» Never make derogatory comments toward another member or make sexist, racist, homophobic, ableist or victim-blaming comments

» Challenge ideas not people. Never demean or embarrass a person.

» Be open to being challenged or confronted on your ideas or prejudices.

(Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, n.d.)