This blog article focuses on how to talk about what happened on January 6, 2021, when a crowd of pro-President Trump demonstrators invaded the U.S. Capitol.
Many of the considerations expressed here are also worth considering in relation to how we adults talk to those we disagree with, so that we avoid isolating ourselves in our own bubbles. Democracy cannot survive anywhere without democratic conversations.
”How should schools teach kids about what happened at the US Capitol on Jan. 6? We asked 6 education experts” Read the whole article here
"Don’t avoid the topic
... Educators may worry they don’t know the right thing to say and will unnecessarily upset students. But saying nothing can say a lot to children that adults are unaware, unconcerned, unable or unwilling to provide support in difficult times. ...
Especially in the midst of a pandemic, when children and adults are worried about illness and death and many families are dealing with financial concerns and other sources of stress, it’s not a time for teachers to introduce their personal take on what elected officials did right or wrong or to speculate about potential future dangers. ..."
"No business as usual
... When engaging in this work, teachers must not treat the question, “Did Joe Biden legitimately win the 2020 election?” as open to interpretation. He most definitely did. ...
The question, “Should President Trump be impeached again?” is, however, open for interpretation. ...
This moment is an opportunity for everyone to deepen their understanding about democracy. And social studies teachers should not let it slip away. ..."
"Focus on white supremacy
White supremacy has always been violent, and upheld in America’s institutions. This is well documented and we must teach it. The world witnessed yet another example on Jan. 6, 2021. ...
Teachers also must resist the urge to view what I consider a coup attempt as an isolated incident. Instead, they should place it in a historical context.
"Kids are, sadly, familiar with violence
... Children and teens are no strangers to disagreement, questions of fairness and, unfortunately, scenes of violence like those we saw in the Capitol. ...
For example, schools commonly have active-shooter drills that can leave children feeling confused, scared or angry. ....
In a truly democratic society, students are not only taught about democracy but are encouraged to practice it. ...
That is, students are empowered to use what they have learned to engage in civic life outside of the classroom walls. ..."
"Connect events to the past and the future
... Most students today have never seen our elected leaders and political systems work well, let alone live up to America’s constitutional ideals. Many are confused by what they’ve seen, if not angry and traumatized. It’s important for teachers to communicate that all kinds of emotional reactions are valid...
Let students express and process what they feel safely. Do not dehumanize any student because of their opinion – but teach them to always consider the intent and impact of their response. If appropriate, encourage methods like journaling that allow for reflection without sharing. ...
Even with younger students, I don’t believe educators should shy away from the fact that some people violated not just social norms but their professional, political and moral duties – and why their actions threaten the health of our republic."
"Explain what ‘dissent’ is
... teachers should help students distinguish justified protest from the violent siege that occurred at the Capitol. They should explain how good dissent seeks to understand problems, critiques injustice, sparks discussion between people with different views, bases claims on evidence and employs democratic processes. ..."
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| Read the whole article here |
Listen
This teacher, who makes a weekly video on YouTube, argues that one must listen without having a plan in advance about where the conversation will lead. Otherwise one is not listening carefully. "Your attention is more important than your advice".
J. C. Reynolds (January 2021): ”Talking to Students About Capitol Invasion” (5 min., video) klik
Last words
These considerations also apply to talking with children and young people about many other disturbing events around the world.
Finally, many of the considerations expressed here also apply to how we adults talk to each other.
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A supplementing blogpost:
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