What Can Schools and Congregations Do About Racism?

1.         Multiculturalize learning materials

Curriculum review is a big issue for schools and school districts.  Learning materials should include the culture and history of all racial groups.  A curriculum screening committee can be trained detect bias and to help individual teachers as well as students to detect the bias themselves.  Poster, A-V materials and libraries (school and congregation) provide wonderful opportunities to celebrate a multicultural world.

2.         Evaluate hiring practices

A multicultural staff makes a strong statement to members of a congregation or to students and their parents.  In the broadest sense, this includes full and part-time employees, volunteers and outside speakers.  National congregation offices for racial and cultural affairs, minority business councils, African American and Hispanic newspapers, and African American college placement offices are often aids in this kind of recruitment.

3.         Offer educational events that deal with racial justice

Schools and congregations need to have school assemblies, adult and children’s educational events, film festivals, etc.. that focus on racism, prejudice, and the effects of racism and economic injustice.  In-service staff development sessions for faculties are crucial for ongoing education.

4.         Look at business practices

Suppliers of products and services can be evaluated in terms of their concern for racial and economic justice.  Doing business with firms owned and operated by people of color or firms that have a good track record in affirmative action makes a statement to the entire congregation or school community.

5.        Multiculturalize worship

The music, prayers, children’s devotions, visuals, content of services of reconciliation, etc. that are part of the worship life of the congregation can reflect the heritage of a variety of races and cultures.