Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing issues through the lens of race is essential because experiences and outcomes are significantly different across racial groups. Understanding these disparities helps in identifying and dismantling systemic racism.

Individual anecdotes do not negate the broader, systemic issues faced by Black people as a whole. While personal experiences may vary, societal patterns and data highlight inequities that need to be addressed.

While other cultures may have their own challenges, it is crucial to focus on the unique experiences and systemic injustices specifically affecting Black communities. Recognising these differences allows for more precise and effective solutions.

Being anti-racist involves actively opposing racism and promoting racial equity. This means not only holding non-discriminatory beliefs but also taking steps to challenge and dismantle racist practices, policies, and ideas.

Yes, remaining silent in the face of racism contributes to its perpetuation. Being an ally requires actively speaking and working against racism and supporting those who are oppressed.

Reflect on aspects of your identity, such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and more. Tools like positionality exercises can help identify the privileges you hold and the marginalized groups you may not be aware you are part of.

Race significantly impacts access to opportunities, treatment by institutions, and overall life experiences in America, particularly between White and Black people. Recognizing and addressing current and historical racial disparities is crucial for building a just and equitable society.

DO SOMETHING! Stop talking about it and do something about it instead. Educate yourself on issues affecting Black students and families, listen to their experiences, challenge your own biases, and take concrete actions to support racial equity both personally and in your community.

Yes, Black children frequently encounter systemic biases and prejudices early on, including being subjected to the adultification of Black children, influencing long-term disparities in educational and life outcomes.

What's the difference between saying "students of color" and "colored students"? Black people didn't like it then and still don't like it now. While this term is commonly used in academic and research settings, it undermines the Black community. Lumping Black people in with all other races is a disservice because the Black experience differs greatly from the rest. You’ll never hear a Black person refer to themselves as a person of color in regular conversation or settings.. Just say, “Black.” When referring to Black people, it’s okay to simply use the term "Black." Phrases like "the black," "the blacks, and any variation of the “n” word are not appropriate.

Let's start from the top- Asians are often referred to as the "model minority" meaning members from this group are perceived to be the role model or reference group for how the rest of us should act, especially Black people. Asians are viewed as exemplary law-abiding and productive citizens while Black people are criminals collecting welfare checks. Think about some of the metrics we use to measure success such as educational attainment, household income, homeownership, criminal activity etc. Where do Asians fall? They are at the top of everything good while Black people are at the top of everything bad. When have you ever heard someone refer to a Black person as a model anything... unless they were being used as a token? Ok next we have Pacific Islanders and Indigenous people who are often mislabeled and misidentified in special education due to the lack of cultural competence as well. The difference here is that Pacific Islanders have their islands and communities where they are the majority and Indigenous people have their tribal lands, communities, and government where they have autonomy over their affairs. Black people don't have that. Historically when Black people band together and create their own movements and communities they get murdered (Black Panthers) and burned down (Tulsa Race Massacre). Ok moving on let's talk about the Hispanic/Not Hispanic thing- a lot of people check yes to Hispanic being their ethnicity and then go down and choose white for their race- whether or not they actually are or not because of proximity to whiteness which includes the presumption of competence, intelligence, attractiveness, and friendliness. The closer you are to whiteness the more you can benefit from the privileges that come along with being white but Black people do not have that luxury - never have and never will.

The use of the "n" word is a complex and sensitive topic rooted in historical and cultural contexts. The "n" word has a deeply painful history, originating as a derogatory term used by White people to dehumanize and oppress Black people during slavery and segregation. This word carries the weight of centuries of racism, violence, and discrimination. Some Black people have reappropriated the word, using it within our communities in a way that subverts its original derogatory meaning. For us, it can be a term of camaraderie, solidarity, or even endearment, depending on the context and relationship between the speakers. And no you don’t get a pass because you grew up with Black people or know Black people. If you’re not Black don’t use it.

No, and never. The term "boy" has historically been derogatory and will continue to hold that connotation regardless of the context. Besides, no adult should be calling another adult ‘boy’ or ‘girl’ unless you want to FAFO.

Explore our resources page which includes definitions and explanations of key concepts such as anti-racism, Black culture, culturally responsive teaching, and critical race theory.