Week 8's Farewell Blog--6357

One hope that you have when you think about working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds (any format and any length): One hope that I have is that people who come into contact with famillies who are different will welcome them with open arms. I am not naive to think that everyone will do this but this is a desire that I have. I know, with help, that many people will overcome their fears and discomfort. Taking this course has allowed me to do this as well. One goal you would like to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice (any format and any length): After studying the subject matter that pertains to this class, the goal that I have set for myself is to become more open-minded. When dealing with different people, I know that there are going to be a bit of culture shock. By me being open to all races of people, it will prepare me for the a more modern classroom. I know that there will a time when not everyone will get along, but that is the beauty of it, we don't all have to. The idea should be to have respect for all people involved. A brief note of thanks to your colleagues: I have truly enjoyed reading and responding to my colleagues and professor. I would like to thank each and every one of you for assisting in my growth as an individual. I am sure to remember you always.

In Response to Harro's Cycle of Liberation

As I was reading Harro's Cycle of Liberation, I wanted to explore the self-love aspect of the cycle because I do believe that before we can properly love anyone--students, friends, or significant others, we must first learn to love ourselves. This is a must. The poem that I have listed below is one that was inspired by all of the natural, African-American women out there who have liberated themselves and are not living inside of their own personal jail cells which can include their hair, high fashions and what other people consider to be beautiful. I got my permed hair cut off and I have only been natural for about a month but I love it. The poem is called "Hair Chronicles." Here it is: With every clip of the scissors, I feel myself growing weak. Weakness radiating from outside in, My tears provide solace after this event is over. On my golden locks, I can no longer depend. It feels that I have lost a piece of me. One essential piece--without it, I can no longer function. Looking within myself for an answer, No answer will come so I sink into a depression. My hair used to be my life, I think, as I try to find a new form of expression. I run my fingers through my little fro. And I become excited about my curls, I wonder, if this is what acceptance feels like When a misfits finally succeeds at joining forces with the popular girls. I smile inspite of all that has transpired. I am no longer bound to what I thought beauty was. I am beautiful. I am admired. I am a work of art--One that seeks to inspire

Response to "We Don't Say Those Words in Class!"

I can recall one time in particular that I used to point at the neighbor's daughter and ask why her eyes were that way. My mother, after spanking me, told me not to point and ask those questions because it was rude. The message that my mother sent to me was that I shouldn't ask questions nor she I express any type of curiosity towards people who weren't like me. Had anti-bias education been around, she could have used this as a teachable moment and taught me things about diversity and the differences that we shared as human beings. I would have loved to have known about my neighbor's daughter; I could have gotten to know her and we could have become friends.