The 2 Article Summaries I chose for my Teach-Out Project:

1. Lisa Delpit: The Silenced Dialogue: Power and Pedagogy in Educating Other People’s Children

The article written by Lisa Delpit discusses the concept of the "culture of power" and how this awareness (or lack thereof) of the privilege that those in power (in this case, White people) possess can impact social changes needed to create a more equitable and empathetic society. The silenced dialogue she speaks of is this notion that Black people feel so unheard and dismissed by White people when trying to speak their perspective or deliver an explanation/message, that they are then pushed to remain silent about it instead, since it is just easier than attempting to explain what they mean. Delpit goes on to propose the 5 aspects of this culture of power, with the last one explicitly stating: "Those with power are frequently least aware of--or least willing to acknowledge--its existence. Those with less power are often most aware of its existence." She stresses that this awareness should drive all educators to research and practice pedagogy to address these issues of power, and break the harmful cycle. Creating access and knowledge bases for POC who are not in this particular culture is beneficial for them to learn how. Providing the tools to be successful rather than setting up people for failure is the mindset shift people, especially educators need to make, to effect real change. 

*My Children's Book would address in its message this powerful desire for all folks to feel welcomed to express themselves, curiously explore and appreciate each other's differences, and celebrate diversity all around them as a close community of love and deep respect!

2. Armstrong and Wildman: "Colorblindness Is The New Racism"

In the article written by Armstrong and Wildman, they discuss the dynamic shift from the former terminology, racism to this newer trend of colorblindness that speaks volumes in terms of how modern day society has not evolved their cultural shortcomings, even since the Civil Rights movement. Colorblindness is interpreted initially as though one chooses not to see race or "skin color" as a significant factor or topic of discussion, so it is avoided in conversations and creative expressions entirely. This approach to choose to be "blind" to another's differences, such as their demographic background, interests or culture truly puts a strain on building a sense of community and appreciation for all diversity and is seen as demoralizing even. Armstrong and Wildman were stressing that this in turn, perpetuates the status-quo since those above the "power line" aren't thinking about their Whiteness or privilege, and aren't intentionally trying to make waves that would level the playing field. They propose that having "color insight" is the route to take, where we all DO acknowledge race and investigate the changes it needs. Those educators in power must be transitioned from blindness to conscious awareness, and be intentional in their delivery and practice to celebrate all backgrounds and races. 

*As mentioned above, the Children's Book would certainly address this desire for a celebration of diversity, and promote children to be open-minded and willing to seek out knowledge and appreciation of classmates who look differently than them.