CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The state’s second largest school district plans to host a two-part virtual series on how to comfortably talk to your children about racism.
Motivational speaker and educator Robert Jackson will speak to Elgin District U-46 families on having that discussion with children of various ages, from pre-kindergarteners on up.
The first session will be offered on Tuesday, Oct. 20 and the second on Tuesday, Nov. 17, both from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
According to the district, Mr. Jackson said he wants to use the two-part series to address how parents and families can discuss racism comfortably with their children.
“Parenting can be tough as it is. Many kids are confused about where to place their emotions regarding the recent developments unfolding around racial injustice in our country,” he said. “Some parents and family members do not know where to begin with discussing racism with their children.”
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During Mr. Jackson’s teaching career in Indianapolis Public Schools, he refused to let his students feel sorry for themselves or let their circumstances define their futures. He speaks and teaches on topics of cultural diversity, restorative practices, socio-emotional learning, and how to retain troubled students in school. He challenges parents to take a more active role in their children’s education, and he works with students to overcome hardships through discipline and accountability, the district said.
Dr. Teresa Lance, District U-46 Assistant Superintendent of Equity and Innovation, said Jackson will also talk about "micro-aggressions", or what some might call backhanded compliments.
"You might say, 'Wow, Teresa, you have really good English', so you would infer that black folks or African-Americans can’t speak standard English, or what you would consider appropriate English," she said.
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Dr. Lance said Jackson will also talk about stressors involving racism and the coronavirus pandemic and offer specific tips on how to cope.
While Jackson will speak as part of a regular meeting of the council, the program is open to all members of the community. Register for the Zoom webinar at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85489572254 or call 312-626-6799.