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Here's a thread of Dr. Ladson Billings excellent points on the insurrection, paraphrased for early elementary age. https://twitter.com/MoserMadness/status/1347559326987284480
define racism first: With our kids I said racism a word we use for an unfair system that treats white people better than Black, brown, and indigenous people.
1) In our country, white people protesting are mostly treated like they are doing something that is allowed. White people who are angry and protesting are usually not treated like they are dangerous.
2) Part of how racism works in this country is that Black people are often treated like they are dangerous or scary just because they are Black. Black people protesting are treated as scary and dangerous, and sometimes the police or army try to stop or control the protest.
3) When this country was started, racism was part of it. Black people did not have the same rights as white people, and racism has tried to keep it this way
4) Because Black people are still not treated equally or fairly in many ways, racism still hurts people. The ways it hurts people change over time, and some times are better or worse than others. But it never goes away, and it is always wrong.
5) Racism means not treating people fairly. Our country will never really have a fair system for voting and making decisions when Black people are not treated equally.
6) Racism has made this country (and particular people in it) richer by stealing work and money from Black people.
7) Racism hurts our country (and particular people in it) because it stops people from learning, growing, and doing what they want to do in life.
8) Racism affects all of us in many ways. It can mean that white people get most of the best schools, housing, and jobs, or that their air and water is protected from pollution. It can mean that Black people are treated differently by police or by doctors and nurses.
9) Our country usually only helps Black people when white people will also get something - or get more.
10) I love you and I want to tell you the truth, even when it is hard. I know you are smart and strong and kind and want to make this world a better place.
