RARE Newsletter March 2022
Documentary Film Sparks Discussions Throughout Seattle Area
Multiple high schools, places of worship, and community groups are all using RARE’s new documentary film as a basis for productive discussions about race, equity, and education in Seattle. Groups range in size from fewer than 10 to more than 50. So far all discussions have been on-line but we expect this to change in coming months. We are interested in tracking these discussions. Please let us know if your group has plans or has already done so.
Cherry McGee Banks To Join Open Discussion on March 28
Educator Cherry McGee Banks will talk about Lift Every Voice and Sing, also known as the Black National Anthem, at RARE’s March 31 Open Discussion Session. The online event starts at 7 p.m. RARE’s monthly Open Discussion sessions are free and open to the public.
All-city PTSA Discusses “Beyond Black & White”
The Seattle Council Parent Teacher Student Association (SCPTSA) viewed the documentary and followed it with a discussion that included staff, parents, and students. Read our blog article to learn about the interesting reactions to the film.
The Roosevelt News Covers the Film
RHS student Katy Lau wrote an excellent article for The Roosevelt News on the documentary film. She describes the making of the film, summarizes many of its messages, and explains the potential impact of the film at Roosevelt and beyond. We recommend reading it!
Connections Team Plans Pilot Activities
Now with a team of several volunteers, we are reaching out to youth programs around Seattle. The concept of the Connections program is to promote fun and interesting activities where students of different races and ethnicities can get to know one another as individuals. We’re planning 2 or 3 one-day pilots this spring and more in the fall. Are you interested in helping? Please contact us through our volunteer page!
How You Can Help
Yes, you can do something! There are many ways you can help RARE improve racial equity in Seattle schools and beyond.
NEW FOCUS
As souls upon this earth
Our focus is askew
In healing one, it begins
To shift collective view
We’re programmed to see right and wrong
To judge what’s good and bad
Instead of as perspective
Based on the life we’ve had
Our emotions and reactions
Just happen without thought
With awareness And a choice
Could we change them when they’re caught?
I can be right and so can you
Although we disagree
As I stand at the tail of nine
And a six is what you see
Even standing with you,
My nine looks upside down
And when you stand on my side, your six is on its crown
Can we change our focus from who’s wrong or right
And ask each other questions
That help us to unite
What were your experiences
That helped you form your lens?
We may find commonalities
That make those foes, now friends
It takes intentionality
And practice every day
For us to change our focus
And create a whole new way
By Kim Leatherman © 2022, with permission