Welcome to the Education page! The purpose of this page is to present relevant and important topics from various perspectives. Eventually, I will host podcasts with various guests. Viewers will be invited to submit questions and comments about our conversations to enhance the overall learning experience.
Current Topic: Diversity
An important topic that needs to be addressed is Diversity in the America. Broadly, the USA prides itself on its cultural and ethnic variation. This pride is reflected in the changing complexion of various institutions in the US. For example, a 15-year study out of Baylor University and Northern Park University in Chicago suggests that the percentage of multiracial congregations and the amount of racial/ethnic diversity in US churches has increased; mostly in protestant churches (Dougherty & Emerson, 2018). The study also suggests that churches still remain more segregated than society.
US Census Bureau data report "some progress has been made toward increasing diversity in higher education and improving educational opportunities for individuals in certain groups." School segregation and educational inequity are closely related to this trend. For example, The New York Times ". . .reports more than 50% of schoolchildren in the U.S. are in racially concentrated districts. Some districts are also segregated by income. These factors intensify the diversity gaps in higher education. Some ". . . causes for these gaps include structural inequalities, disparities in access to resources, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. A deeper dive into these issues is a critical step in creating more equity in education." For additional information on The Diversity Gaps in Higher Education, visit:
https://www.ucda.com/journal/diversity-in-higher-education/
Now, before we can honestly understand these and other related issues, it is important to understand our own beliefs about diversity.
Crossing Your Own Familiar Borders: Understanding Your Own Beliefs About Diversity
Lately, the terms Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have been popping up a lot in the media, and for some, they might feel a bit overwhelming or unfamiliar. But at its core, DEI is about making sure everyone feels and is valued, respected, and included, no matter their background.
In just a few weeks, we'll be coming together to at the Oak Creek Performing Arts & Education Center. This free, family-friendly event will feature inspiring performances from local youth artists and a powerful panel discussion with Daniel Terrio, Milwaukee County's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. This event will offer a chance for us to have an open, meaningful conversation about how we can create a stronger, more unified Oak Creek.
Before we gather on February 16th, let's take a moment to reflect on what DEI means to us personally and as a community. We want to hear your thoughts, ideas, and reflections as we build toward a more inclusive, united community. Here are a few questions to consider:
Feel free to share your thoughts below or just take some time to think about them before the event!
1) In what ways can we, as a community, actively support diversity and inclusion on a daily basis, beyond just attending events?
2). What steps can we take together to create a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and celebrated, regardless of their background?
During future podcasts, guests and I will share the origins of our own ideas about diversity. We will then reflect on our ideas about diversity and determine if they are accurate/justifiable. Lastly, we will decide and share whether our ideas about diversity will enhance our lives and the lives of those we encounter.
Call to Action:
If you can attend "Let's Talk Heart 2 Heart - Oak Creek, please register here: https://www.zeffy.com/.../lets-talk-heart-2-heart-oak-creek
Also, I encourage you to slow down and take some time to talk with people; especially across cultural and ethnic backgrounds. You may be surprised at how a small act like this will make your day and enhance someone’s life for years to come.
