ABOUT GIRLS
HELP KIDS TAKE ACTION Against Racism
W
henever we see injustice, we all have a responsibility to confront it. Every day, no matter our background or our age, every single one of us has a role to play in taking on an unfair system while working to build a new one that truly works for all. Guiding girls in learning to recognize and challenge structures and practices that fuel inequality and cause harm helps them play an active role in creating the positive change they want to see. It may be tempting to avoid the topic of race and racism altogether—especially for those who were taught it’s something that isn’t polite to discuss—but statistics show that justice, health, and education systems aren’t fair in fundamental ways that can negatively affect a girl’s life on a foundational level. Her family, education, safety, and well-being make these conversations a must for those who support a just and equal world for all girls. Having honest discussions about race is vital for all families, and it’s crucial to have them regularly, even if you find it uncomfortable or you think your kids already know about racism and understand right from wrong. Yet while discussion is excellent, it’s only one part of it. It’s also important to look at how your girl’s life is structured and lived every day. So, how do you begin?
Be straightforward, ask questions, and listen to her. For starters, don’t avoid the topic. Pressing mute can make your girl think that talking about race and racism is off-limits or that the status quo is acceptable when a real conversation on these topics is actually what she needs most and what will help you both be part of the solution.
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GIRL SCOUT
Connections
In fact, "choosing" whether to talk to your kids about racism and its consequences is not a decision every family gets to make. It’s often a necessary, even life-saving, conversation from the earliest ages, especially for black families and other families of color. You don’t need a big speech. Ask what she’s seen and heard and listen to what she says. Let her know that whatever she’s feeling is OK, including if she’s scared, uncomfortable, or angry. You might think she’ll feel more afraid if you admit you don’t have all the answers, but kids feel comforted and better supported when they’re met with honesty and emotion.
Teach her to identify racism. To make the discussion about race and racism a part of "normal" conversation in your home, start when your kids are young. According to Dr. Erin N. Winkler, who studies talking with children about race, it’s never too early to start. Young children begin to reflect the bias prevalent in their
FALL 2020
