February marks the annual observance of Black History Month, a time to reflect on the profound contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. It's more than just a month; it's a reminder to celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments of our outstanding waymakers, together.
Why It Matters
Celebrating Black History Month with our Cardinals is an opportunity to broaden our understanding of history and diversity. It's a chance to inspire each other with stories of resilience, creativity, and leadership that have shaped our world.
- Family Activities: Consider watching documentaries or reading books about influential figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman. Visit local museums or cultural events that celebrate African American heritage.
- Open Dialogues: Use this month as a springboard for conversations about diversity, equality, and justice. Discuss current events and historical contexts, fostering an environment of learning and empathy.
A Lasting Impact: Celebrating Black History Month at home instills values of respect, understanding, and appreciation for diversity. It's about building a foundation that will stay with your children for a lifetime, helping them become compassionate and informed citizens of the world.
Remember, Black History Month is not just about looking back; it's about moving forward together, making every month an opportunity to learn and grow.
More importantly, as a people, we need to "Fight" the Good Fight.
We've all heard the age-old advice: "If someone hits you, hit them back." But as the leader of Pullman, I HAVE to lead our efforts with flipping the script. Instead of teaching our kids to throw a punch, or bring a weapon to school, we're arming them with something far more powerful – words, empathy, and the art of peaceful negotiation--especially as Black and Brown people. It wasn't too long ago when Black and Brown students couldn't even attend Pullman. When we were finally "allowed" to enroll, we occupied the basement classrooms only. And we want to come to school to fight each other instead of fighting WITH each other to win?
- Role Modeling: I'm committed to showing our students how to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. If you want leadership to encourage students to fight, and bring weapons to school without consequences of holding students accountable for their actions--we are not the school for you.
- Parental Guidance: We totally get it. Telling your child to defend themselves is a natural instinct. But let's channel that energy into teaching them to stand up for themselves with words, not fists. Encourage them to inform a staff member and/or find Principal Salter! I can't help with incidents of which I'm uninformed.
Together, We Stand: Our school is battling against a lot – from mastering multiplication to family trauma. Adding bathroom brawls to the mix? Not on my watch! Let's team up to create a safe, supportive environment where conflicts are resolved with respect and understanding. We're learning to stand tall in diversity, to speak up with kindness, and to listen with open hearts.
Remember, whether we're exploring history, mastering multiplication, writing essays or resolving conflicts, we're in this together – one community, one school, one big family. So, parents, let's lose the temper tantrum nonsense and help our kids become real-life heroes of kindness and conversation.
Peace out (literally),
It's Black History Month ALL YEAR. Principal Salter & Peace Advocate