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
Looking to the Future
We have worked hard to finally see a woman of color address this country as the future Vice President. It was incredible to experience this with my daughter. She gets to see herself reflected in the leadership of this country.
Solidarity Necessitates Reciprocity
The moral debt that the United States owes to Indigenous peoples is one of the largest moral debts that the country has incurred.
Wake the F$#k Up
When I first started writing this piece, it began as a vent that I softened up with humor to make tolerable for the white colleagues that I care about.
Our Liberation Is Bound Together
“If you have come here to help me you are wasting your time, but if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” ― Lilla Watson In this piece, you will see three distinct parts written to distinct audiences.
Social Solidarity: Embracing Equity During Times of Coronavirus Uncertainty
The work of truly embracing equity requires us to slow down in the midst of a crisis and carefully reflect and act in the interest of justice.
My Climb Towards Liberation
Esther Barela Bemis reflects on her lived experience as a Woman of Color engaging in conversations about identity, racism, and privilege during the Coronavirus pandemic — as well as how she is reclaiming her healing, power and support.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Join our community for access to exclusive webinars, inspiring resources, and tools for transformation.
