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Summary Dr. Tairan Qui joins me as co-host for this conversation that explores the personal and professional experiences of educators, Laura Ouk and Amy Okimoto, focusing on their cultural identities, the importance of community, the necessity of advocating for Asian American history in education, and the role of personal experiences in shaping the educational practices of Asian American educators. They also highlight legislative efforts to include Asian American history in school curricula as well as the challenges posed by the current political climate. They discuss the challenges faced in the education system, the significance of affinity groups, and the need for culturally responsive teaching. In this conversation, educators, Laura Ouk and Amy Okimoto, also emphasize the need for cross-cultural education, the significance of the Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum, the role of educators as activists in advocating for truth, inclusivity in education, and the collaborative efforts to create inclusive educational resources. They believe that integrating Asian American stories enriches the curriculum. Furthermore, they argue that educators must navigate political challenges to teach truth because teaching history is a form of resistance against oppression. The conversation concludes with reflections on hope and the future of Asian American students and teachers.

Takeaways

• Personal experiences shape educators' approaches to teaching.
• Cultural identity plays a significant role in advocacy work.
• Asian affinity groups provide essential support for educators.
• Legislative changes can drive educational reform.
• Creating inclusive curriculum is necessary for representation.
• Integrating Asian American stories enriches the curriculum.
• Public access to resources fosters inclusivity in education.
• Cross-cultural education helps unite diverse communities.
• The Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum is groundbreaking.
• Educators must navigate political challenges to teach truth.
• Teaching history is a form of resistance against oppression.

Legislation, Books, and Teacher Resources Mentioned:

• TEAACH Act (Teaching Equitable Asian American Community History)
• Watercress by Andrea Wang
• Front Desk Book Collection by Kelly Yang
• Social Studies for a Better World: A Guide for Elementary Educators by Noreen Naseem Rodríguez and Katy Swalwell
• The Asian American Education Project – lesson plans and professional development

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Summary

In this conversation, Tiffany Nyachae and Ruqayyah Simmons discuss the importance of literacy among Black boys and the initiatives taken through the nonprofit organization Black Boys Read Too, Inc. They explore their personal connections, the journey into education, and the significance of providing new books that reflect the experiences and identities of Black boys. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in literacy education and the need for representation and mentorship in fostering a love for reading. They discuss the challenges of literacy in education, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches that incorporate play and representation. They explore the significance of community engagement through programs like barbershop book clubs, which aim to create safe spaces for young boys to read and express themselves. The conversation also highlights the importance of celebrating joy in literacy and the ongoing efforts to change the narrative around reading for Black boys.

Takeaways

• The importance of community engagement in education.
• Black boys often lack access to engaging reading materials.
• New books with Black protagonists can inspire young readers.
• Representation in literature is crucial for identity formation.
• Community spaces like barbershops can promote literacy.
• The role of mentors in encouraging reading among boys.
• Intentionality in book selection is key to engagement.
• Literacy challenges often stem from systemic issues in education.
• The transition from learning to read to reading to learn is critical.
• Black boys deserve high-quality educational resources.
• Literacy challenges in education require systemic solutions.
• Incorporating play into literacy can enhance engagement.
• Representation in literacy materials is crucial for young readers.
• Innovative programs can inspire a love for reading.
• Creating safe spaces allows boys to express their literate identities.
• Celebrating joy in literacy fosters a positive learning environment.
• Community involvement is essential for literacy initiatives.
• Organizations can focus on both fixing problems and celebrating successes.
• Engagement through diverse activities can make reading more appealing.

Sound Bites

"Black boys deserve the best."

"We never want it to be just an afterthought."

"Books are a way for boys to see themselves."

"Play is kind of the backbone for learning."

"We wanted to change the narrative."

"We celebrate joy and have fun together."

"It's a passion project."

"Creating safe spaces for our boys to read."

Other Ways to Stay Connected and Support Black Boys Read Too, Inc.

• Black Boys Read Too Instagram
• Barbershop Book Club Video
• Amazon Wish List

Book Series and Book mentioned in this Episode:

• Future Hero Series by Remi Blackwood
• Future Hero: Race to Fire Mountain by Remi Blackwood

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Summary

For this episode, I am in conversation with fellows, Chris Hosey and Kaiyre Lewis, and Executive Director, Markus Flynn of the Minnesota-based organization, Black Men Teach, to explore the significance of Black male teachers in education, focusing on their experiences, challenges, and the support provided by the organization. My guests also share personal stories about their journeys into teaching, the importance of representation, and their beliefs about education as a means of liberation. They emphasize the need for supportive conditions that allow Black male teachers to thrive and the impact they have on their students and communities. Additionally, my guests discuss the transformative impact of Black Men Teach, emphasizing the importance of community support, addressing generational trauma, and defining what it means for Black male educators to thrive. They highlight the need for instructional coaching and support in educational environments, the challenges faced by Black male teachers, and the future vision for expanding the program's reach and impact.

Takeaways

• Black male teachers play a crucial role in education.
• Representation matters for both students and teachers.
• Education should be viewed as a liberating force.
• Supportive networks are essential for teacher retention.
• Joy and passion in teaching can transform classrooms.
• Black Men Teach provides mentorship and community support.
• Personal experiences shape teaching philosophies.
• Building relationships with students is key to success.
• The journey to becoming a teacher can be challenging but rewarding.
• Creating conditions for Black male teachers to thrive is vital.
• There's a strong sense of community and support within Black Men Teach.
• The program offers significant benefits, including financial support for education and home ownership.
• Generational trauma affects the comfort and safety of Black and Brown students in educational settings.
• Black male educators often face higher expectations and less support compared to their peers.
• Defining 'thriving' for Black male educators involves support in health, wellness, and belonging.
• Instructional coaching is essential for all teachers, and it should not be seen as a sign of failure.
• The retention of Black male educators is critical to addressing educational disparities.
• Black Men Teach aims to create a supportive environment for Black male educators.
• The future vision includes expanding the program to have a nationwide impact.

Sound Bites

"I love working in education."

"Education is liberation."

"This is a pipeline for Black male teachers."

"This is not a job to me."

"I enjoy doing this."

"I want to give all my kids the tools they need."

"I belong here."

"We need more Black male teachers."

"Failure with them is not an option."

"Receiving instructional coaching doesn't make you a failure."

"We need Black Men Teach everywhere."

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