Kaleidoscope’s Post

As a Higher Ed practitioner, I see firsthand the significance of giving. Many of our students do not complete their degrees due to financial barriers that impede on their ability to be successful. As we enter Black History Month, consider investing in our future generations by giving to Jackson State University’s 40 Under 40 Endowed Scholarship Fund. To learn more about JSU https://lnkd.in/eDdZaQzF

University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education So looking forward to this! If you are interested in improving your Teaching Black History skills please come to this informational session. #teachingblackhistory #blackhistorymatters

Black History is a constant happening. An everyday occurrence, and when history we made, we celebrate it. Why? Because to not celebrate our history is to accept the place we stand in it. As we continue to celebrate and honor those history makers, let us not only embrace the lessons of our past but also acknowledge the imperative need to learn from history, empower the present, and sculpt a future where equity and justice are intrinsic to every individual's existence. This is something we strive for at Urban League of Philadelphia beyond programming and community efforts. So Today we would like to highlight Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis who became the first Black Lt. Governor in the state of #pennsylvania in January of 2023. He also became the youngest person to serve in his position in the United States. Since then, Davis has vowed to sow hope and opportunity for the ignored, forgotten and to further advance the cause of social and economic justice for all, “especially Black and brown young people.” Whether it be advocating for after school programs, supporting minority-owned businesses, seeking to end gun violence, or speaking out for those unhoused, unprotected, and un-alived; Davis has been sure to keep his promise. Urban League works tirelessly each day to serve Greater Philadelphia, it is because of community partners and leaders like Lt. Gov Davis in the fight toward equity who help us get the job done and make history. Let's continue doing both. #MakingBlackHistory #afterschoolprograms #UrbanLeagueImpact #MovingForwardTogether #ShapeTheFuture #LegacyOfHope #endgunviolence #urbanleaguephila Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro

I was just doing some research about diversity in the US government, which led me to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) website. I reviewed their official membership and calculated the number of GOP or conservative members. That number is: ZERO. Every single member of the CBC is a Democrat. That is roughly 100%. Something about that seems, well, less than diverse. But I could be wrong. https://lnkd.in/dYzuveg8 In my research, I found that the CBC advocates for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). From the CBC website: "The CBC has always prioritized securing funding and federal support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which have always been agents of equity, access, and excellence in education – especially for students of color." It is reasonable to assume then that a person of color who wishes to matriculate at an HBCU would 1) be admitted, and 2) receive a quality education. I fully support HBCU's because one of our most basic rights is freedom of association. One can freely choose whom to associate with, unless that results in discrimination, right? (See the latest info about HBCU's in my next comment below). American colleges and universities have been criticized lately for their mostly White administrations and their overt and covert discrimination against persons of color. In fact, most US colleges and universities consist of a majority of White faculty, staff and students, but that is generally reflective of the demographics of the US. But by that same 'standard', should the CBC and HBCU's be criticized for exactly the same things - in reverse? Or should there be some allowance for a Congressional White Caucus (CWC) or Historically White Colleges and Universities (HWCU)? Here's my point. I believe that it is both unproductive - and dumb - to judge or select anyone based purely on external characteristics like race, skin color, gender, age or physical appearance. Instead, a person's actual clearly defined qualifications should be the determinants in every situation. For example, if I am looking for a plumber or a surgeon, I want someone who is good at plumbing or surgery. We don't see a lot of high school dropouts working as aerospace engineers, either. Too simple? I look forward to your thoughtful, civil comments and perspectives which are supported by data and facts.

Check out my latest article in Diverse: Issues In Higher Education.

On February 2, 1959, seventeen courageous Black students stepped forward to integrate the all-white schools of Norfolk, Virginia, amidst vehement opposition and societal challenges. This act of bravery came after the historic Brown v. Board of Education decision but was met with resistance, including the closure of public schools by the state to prevent integration. The Norfolk 17 faced daunting obstacles, from hostile crowds to isolation within their new schools. Yet, their resilience and determination paved the way for future generations to enjoy a more inclusive and equitable education system. Their story is not just a testament to their individual courage but also a critical chapter in the broader civil rights movement, highlighting the enduring struggle for justice and equality in America. Today, we honor the Norfolk 17, not only for their role in desegregating schools but also for their contribution to the ongoing journey toward civil rights and social justice. Their legacy reminds us of the power of perseverance, the importance of education, and the impact a group of determined individuals can have on shaping a more just society. Let's take a moment to reflect on their journey, discuss their impact, and continue to be inspired by their bravery. The road to equality is long and fraught with challenges, but the Norfolk 17 remind us that change is possible when we stand up for what is right. #Norfolk17 #BlackHistoryMonth #CivilRights #EducationEquality #HamptonRoadsHistory #SocialJustice

Happy Black History Month! As we reflect on the trailblazers, the movements, and the culture, we also consider the 70th anniversary of Brown vs Board of Education, how far we have come as a nation, and the distance still to travel. In 1954, the historic Brown vs. Board of Education court case deemed school segregation unconstitutional and concluded that segregation in public education created inherently unequal conditions, which violated the 14th Amendment. As we have continued to learn since Brown, equitable access and opportunities are essential for strong learning outcomes, positive well-being, and successful communities. So, what does equity mean to state educational agencies (SEAs) when they’re developing policies that impact districts, schools, and students? By defining the term, SEAs can lessen the ambiguity and ensure more aspects of education are aligning to equity. Find out which SEAs currently have definitions for equity in Designing for Equity: A Nationwide Education Policy Scan: https://lnkd.in/eSSW7WYG #blackhistorymonth

This comprehensive workshop will equip counselors with the knowledge to effectively guide students considering Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). https://ow.ly/mElv50Q1G39 Explore the rich history, culture, and significance of #HBCUs and debunk misconceptions.

One of our organizational values is Justice, and on Juneteenth we'd like to recognize the meaning of justice within our organization: “We are well aware that the social, political, and financial biases of humans make the balance of justice easy for some and very difficult for many. The scales of justice, be it legal or social, have a heavy human hand on one side of the scale that many do not have the resources to gain the supportive weight needed to offset the preconceived attitudes toward them. We see the shelter and its staff as the balancing force needed to help people get the fairness they deserve.” As you commemorate, celebrate, or reflect upon the significance of Juneteenth today, we want to recognize our team for their devotion to all our values, and our mission. They are on the frontlines of so many social and spiritual issues at St. John’s Ministries, and it is important to slow down and consider how all this weaves into the greater moral issues of our time.

As we begin Black History Month, it is important for me to discuss how some states across the country have banned this topic from being taught in schools, which is not only detrimental to students of color, but all students. When it comes to history, past becomes prologue, so it is important that all students have the ability to learn about the rich contributions of Black Americans and the many obstacles we have overcome as a historically marginalized group. In no way is teaching Black history about guilting anyone, but instead it is focused on ensuring today’s youth know the shortcomings of this country’s past so they can avoid repeating them when they become our leaders of tomorrow. “While representation matters for Black students, it is also good for non-Black students. We can reduce stereotypes, eliminate prejudice and get rid of bias if kids who are not Black begin to hear affirming, positive stories about Black people, Black history and Black culture. So much misinformation exists, and that misinformation can lead to stereotyping, prejudice, racism or acts of discrimination.” – Tyrone Howard, UCLA Pritzker Family Professor of Education Ultimately, we must no longer segregate Black history to only one month a year when we acknowledge and celebrate it because Black history is American history. I encourage everyone to view the resources available from the Center for Racial Justice in Education in the link below and to share them with others in celebration of Black History Month. https://lnkd.in/eeAW53k9