Diversity event viewed as a step in the right direction
By Jason Arndt
Editor
The Burlington Area School District attempted to foster better understanding of human diversity Tuesday during an event held in the BHS auditorium.
The event titled “An Evening of Understanding through Story” was held just a day after the School Board received reports from students and parents of racial prejudice, notably micro aggressions.
Superintendent Stephen Plank, who acknowledged the complaints at Monday’s School Board meeting, emphasized unity and cohesiveness during his closing remarks at the diversity event.
“Think before you speak. Remember that for us to make change in the world, we need to be the change we want to see,” he said. “This evening has been a beginning of us opening up to one another – and no matter what, regardless of your beliefs – we must be kind to another and respect each other.”
The diversity event featured stories shared by students and staff members who have been the subject of prejudice.
Other students showcased posters, which reflected micro aggressions they have received from peers.
Micro aggressions are described as a statement or action that may be showing intentional, or unintentional discrimination, towards a certain racial ethnic group.
For example, a black student showed a sign stating “…wait, never mind. You probably don’t know your Dad.”
Another black student indicated some students assumed she has done drugs because she is black.
Plank commended the students who shared their stories through an email sent on Wednesday.
“What made an impression on me, as a participant, was the courage students displayed in telling stories whether (it was) their own or on behalf of someone else.”
Student Dori O’Sullivan, who read on behalf of her peer Ana, shared Ana’s story about how she and her family overcame adversity as they arrived to the United States from Venezuela.
Plank, meanwhile, said the district remains committed to keeping students, regardless of background, safe in school and in the Burlington community.
“Hearing these stories coupled with the stories shared at Monday night’s board meeting bring prominence to the issue of students deserving to feel safe in the school and the Burlington community,” he wrote on Wednesday.
“The district is committed to being part of the conversation and movement to ensure everyone feels safe, respected, valued and supported.”
To read the entire story see the Feb. 27 edition of the Burlington Standard Press.
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