Relationships. Cohesion. Equity. Positivity. These are just four of the many goals that student activists often have. Student activism is about creating positive changes, such as social, political, economic, or environmental, to better the lives of citizens. However, students will not just instantly know how to make these changes. Therefore, character education lessons are so important in order to teach students how to be role models in their community.
What is Social Justice?
Social justice involves everyone deserving equal rights, opportunities, and treatment. Now, this is not everyone receiving the same exact help. Instead, it is about people having equal opportunities, which results in different amounts of help. Thus, people are not limited due to issues outside of their control, such as discrimination or racism.
Unfortunately, people in the greatest need often face closed doors for these equal rights. For example, voting rights, healthcare access, and food insecurity are all examples of ways people have been unjustly treated. However, people are often hesitant to speak up or scared of the consequences and judgment that may result. For instance, this fear is increasingly common in the LGBTQ+ community. Therefore, a focus on social justice is vital in order to help students understand the importance of helping each individual.
Black History in the Making Writing Prompts: FREE!
In order for students to understand why change is important, they need to see past injustices. To do this, they can study past events that involve racism, segregation, and unequal rights. By doing this, students will see how groups of people have been treated poorly in the past. Additionally, they will begin to see how a single person can begin to make great changes.
“We Won’t Wear the Name”: Often, students wear t-shirts with their school name on the front. It is great to be proud of the school, but it is important to know the meaning behind it. In this story, student activists are working to eliminate Confederate names and statues from schools. By doing this, they are standing against systemic racism. After reading about this powerful fight for change, students can reflect on a variety of writing prompts.
Vocabulary: In order to identify disparities and become an activist, students need to know what the words mean. Hence, there is a vocabulary list included with words students need to know. After learning them or seeing the definitions, students can dive into powerful discussions.
Writing Prompts: The FREE resource contains several writing prompts in order to get students thinking about the past, present, and future. For example, students will explain how it would feel to be a member of a school named after a Confederate soldier. Also, students will examine equity and equality and understand how each person has different needs. Furthermore, students will examine their own lives and see what changes would be beneficial in their school. By using these prompts, students will be thinking on a deeper level while making personal connections!
Creative Activities: In order to tie in the creative side of students, they will also be able to name a school. However, this part works to show how challenging it can be to select a name that everyone supports. Students will have to identify different guidelines to follow before developing names.
Right now, students are making history. Whether they are sitting in the classroom or speaking on the frontlines, they are a part of it. Therefore, it is vital to show students how to be an activist and make positive changes. By doing this, students will gain the courage and confidence needed to be strong leaders.
If you do not want to miss any of the upcoming units, join my email list to be notified of all the interactive lessons coming up! By joining the email list, you will also receive freebies for blog exclusive subscribers!