Going Beyond The Heritage Months

One Love Cultured Kids’ mission is to amplify the existing diverse voices in our American story. We work with educators to promote inclusivity and understanding in the classroom. As a new school year begins and heritage months approach, we encourage educators to go beyond these months and include diverse voices in their everyday curriculum. The truth is limiting diversity to a heritage month is a tall order and importantly it’s a disservice to our young learners and everyone who calls America their home.

Here are a few ways you can include diverse voices:

Know Your Learners – At the beginning of the school year get to know the culture and family traditions of each young learner. Don’t forget to share your story with them! 

Your Daily Curriculum – Ensure that the curriculum includes a range of contemporary perspectives from the culture and histories. Balance historical facts with a contemporary perspective. For example if you have a lesson on electricity – you can include the lightbulb and connect it Edison and Latimer. When talking about Climate Change and renewable energy, you can incorporate the story of William Kamkwamba, the boy who harnessed the wind 

Use Inclusive Language – Encourage the use of inclusive language in the classroom to create a welcoming environment for all students. Avoid stereotypes, generalization and derogatory language; dispel myths. For example Latine vs Latino(a) vs Hispanic 

Invite Guest Speakers – Invite contemporary guest speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and insights on any subject, not just when it’s a Heritage month. Showcase role models from different cultures and backgrounds to inspire students 

Curate Diverse Books and Texts – Include a broad selection of literature in reading assignments and read aloud. Select books that feature the characters taking on “normal” everyday activities, not just dealing with a challenge like “their name being too long or hard to say”

Involve Caregiver and Community – Involve parents and the local community in discussions and events related to diversity and inclusion. Their support can enhance the educational experience 

Partner with One Love Cultured Kids – Collaborate with us! We are can support you with your classroom, curriculum, school and community events. We have the research and resources to assist you.

Celebrate Heritage Months – While it’s important to celebrate heritage months, integrate discussions and activities that highlight diversity into the curriculum year-round.