Ringing in 2021 Reflectively
As we joyously ring in 2021, whether virtual or in-person, FXW remains committed to providing our students with the best educational experience bar none. Embedded within this commitment is our responsibility to take a stand and make a difference on important societal issues, which includes championing social justice and racial equality. Coming together as a community on December 9, our virtual audience had the good fortune of listening to and learning from Dr. Derrick Gay and Dr. Amanda Lewis as they led our Maggie Daley Speaker Series’ Community Conversation on Race, helping us gain valuable perspective on what we can do—at home, in our classrooms, and in our communities.
One white colleague reflected about the Conversation, “I’m glad they are addressing what white people should do and what People of Color can do…“Just because we (FXW) have diversity doesn’t mean we have inclusion. It isn’t sufficient to impacting one’s mindset. Exposure doesn’t equal open mindedness without intentionality.’ It’s powerful to hear Dr. Gay say this.”
At FXW, diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to our values. From the moment our families, faculty, and staff walk in the door, we can deepen our knowledge and understanding of developing a Culture of Belonging and everyone’s role in advancing it. As such, we have taken concrete steps to positively impact organizational and, eventually, societal change through FXW’s Equity and Justice Forum. We know we need to Do More as an institution, and second, we must act intentionally and purposefully to do our part to dismantle systemic inequality in our hallways and in society. Ultimately the goal of the Equity and Justice Forum is to take a systemic approach to help FXW engage a more diverse workforce and student body; bolster inclusive leadership capabilities; foster a culture of belonging; and integrate equity and inclusion across every aspect of community life.
We understand it will take a lot of work and dedicated effort over time, but we are fully invested and unwaveringly committed. As we take specific actions, we will share thorough, timely updates on our progress. On February 16, members of the Forum and School Leadership will provide opportunity to hear more specifically about the work that has been done since the EJF’s inception this summer. Now is the time to be bold and challenge ourselves to be at the forefront of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
If you did not have the opportunity to view the Maggie Daley Speaker Series Community Conversation in Race webinar, click here. For a list of resources from Dr. Gay and Dr. Lewis, click here.
—Kendall Mallette, Director of Mission Integration
