Consequences of Racial (Il)literacy: The Importance of Discussing Race and Racism in School

Abstract

Despite a recent rise in hostility to the incorporation of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in education, school administrators should not shy away from encouraging developmentally appropriate discussions about race, racism, ethnicity, and culture in the classroom for several reasons. First, research shows that most children of color report experiencing school-based racial discrimination. These experiences have a psychological, physical, and academic achievement cost that must be addressed by teachers and school administrators through fostering positive intergroup interactions. Second, talking about race and racism can have positive impacts on both children of color and White children. For children of color, conversations about race and racism can foster a positive sense of self and build efficacy to confront injustice through civic engagement. For White children, these conversations can improve attitudes toward their marginalized peers and increase their desire for a more just future. Thus, while it may be easiest to ignore race in the classroom to avoid public scrutiny, this is in fact the time to stand for the best interests of children whose futures educators help shape.