banner reading 'Listen. Listen. Listen.'

Manifesto: It’s Time to Hear Me! I Mean Really Hear me!

Octavio Pimentel

Reality

By no means am I implying that if a teacher follows the aforesaid steps they will produce a critical culturally friendly anti-racist class that will always serve as a sanctuary space for students of color. Reaching this goal is often unattainable. This is especially true for White European American teachers who teach ethnically diverse students. For these teachers I want them to fully understand that students of color face racism on a daily basis and are often bamboozled by people they trust. That said, teachers should never insist that students of color trust them, but should always strive to earn that trust. When the teacher is worthy of trust, their students of color will give it to them. Until then, teachers should strive to be the most anti-racist teachers they can be. So now that I have provided you with the abovesaid suggestions, PLEASE now LISTEN and go take some ACTION. And this call out is for EVERYBODY, especially our WEA allies!!!