Speaking for Ourselves Teaching Guide
As a member of the Speaking for Ourselves reading committee, it was an absolute honor to read and experience the stories of People of the Global Majority. Some of the pieces resonated with my own experience as a daughter of Mexican migrants, as a mama, and as an educator learning to navigate trauma-inducing, traditional K-12 spaces. All of the pieces in this book speak to the journey of liberation where we speak our truths, powerfully take up space, and create spaces that are truly equitable for all.
I give thanks to Daisy Han and Lorena Germán for bringing this anthology to life. They are forging a path that will make way for people of the global majority to be heard, seen, and valued. They are unapologetically carving out spaces for people, young and old, to tell the stories of those of us who have been historically shut out.
I give thanks to those who wrote down their truths and consented for it to be shared publicly. Their words are a gift to those of us who are seeking an end to white supremacy.
This lesson plan is an offering to the Speaking for Ourselves community, for K-12 educators & beyond who want to decolonize their classrooms by honoring the voices and experiences of the global majority. These stories speak to the beauty and resiliency of Black, Indigenous, Asian Pacific Islander and Latinx people.
Please adapt this lesson plan to fit the needs of your student community. Thank you for making the choice to disrupt centuries of inequitable, oppressive schooling by choosing to hold space for these conversations.
With Gratitude and Solidarity,
Maribel Valdez Gonzalez
Purchase the Speaking for Ourselves Book in the Embracing Equity Shop
Our Articles
New Mexico: Land of Enchantment, Beauty and Community
“When I first experienced Embracing Equity as an early childhood educator, it was like I finally found my place in the community, among a loving group of people who share a vision for what education can be. I want to spread this feeling of belonging to all educators in my home state.”
Working Motherhood: Postpartum Reflections on Paid Parental Leave
Current federal law under the 1993 Family and Medical Leave Act, requires 12 weeks of job-protected unpaid leave but stringent eligibility requirements mean that less than two-thirds of the U.S. workforce is eligible.
More than Money: The Time & Intention Behind Building a Learning Culture
When considering how to build a culture of learning - and even more importantly a culture of belonging to counteract educator turnover and disparate student outcomes - here are a few strategies to build momentum.
Anti-Racist Leadership: Why It Matters and How to Become One
Anti-racist leadership matters because it is the only way we will get to systemic change. It moves organizations and leaders beyond just momentary allyship and performative, temporary measures to deeper actions, commitment, and accountability.
Radical Nourishment
Communal self-care activities for People of the Global Majority to heal from white supremacy culture.
Celebrating Juneteenth AND Fighting the System All Year Long
Should we celebrate Juneteenth and how? To answer this question for myself, I went to my elders. I called my 93-year old grandmother, Mama Grace, and her 103 year old cousin, Cousin Robbie, to ask these strong women about the day and the celebration itself.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Join our community for access to exclusive webinars, inspiring resources, and tools for transformation.