Hairitage at The Mission Grammer School for Black History Month
See full video here: https://www.wcvb.com/article/elmentary-school-students-in-boston-get-lesson-embracing-cultural-differences/6379941
BOSTON —
In honor of Black History Month, a Boston elementary school is getting a lesson in embracing cultural differences.
She reads to them from her books, “Zara’s Wash Day” and “Zion’s Crown,” books she said are written to educate and inspire young people of color.
“I hope they see themselves in the characters of these books, and I hope that something resonated with them where now they look at their wash day, their days at the barbershops a little differently, and really see that the styles that they wear every day is inspired and has some connection to history that we can all be proud of,” Walker said.
The visit is the culmination of a carefully curated cultural curriculum.
“We’re super excited to, like, amplify the voices of – specifically Black voices – and share it with our scholars,” teacher Marnie Walsh said.
“Marnie and I have really been planning — I lead the social-emotional learning group, and Marnie leads the DEI group for our school — and together, we collaborated about a whole month of activities and special days for the scholars to really enjoy and embrace their heritage,” teacher Emma Caffey
Students were asked what they learned from the books.
“What did you learn from the book?”
“That it really doesn’t matter what type of hair you have,” student Aamara Harris said.
“You should love your hair even when you have locks,” student Haven Petithomme said.
Students are now beginning February vacation with the kind of pride that comes with a fresh haircut — deeply rooted in a proud history and culture.
