Without intentional disruption, our schools foster environments that perpetuate sexism and racism. Studies have shown that children of color as young as five years old are aware of and impacted by the negative stereotypes associated with their race. Evidence of these negative stereotypes are illustrated by school practices that demonize natural hairstyles and subjective dress code standards. Black girls, as young as age five, are seen as less innocent than White girls their age.. Black girls are five times more likely to be suspended or expelled than White girls. Yet, 82% of all juvenile sexual violence victims are girls. As advocates for our children we must do a better job protecting them, especially those that are most vulnerable.

We must be courageous enough to confront our own complicity. How does racial and gender bias show up in our schools and classroom? The disproportionately higher rates of childhood poverty, school suspension and incarceration are all troubling indicators that vividly illustrate the devastating impact that both racial and gender stereotypes have on Black girls. We must do more to dismantle these systems that so easily entangle our most vulnerable children. Educators can do this by evaluating hiring and teacher retention practices. Representation matters and school leadership should be reflective of the community the school serves. Schools can assess their discipline policies. Instead of turning to punitive disciplinary practices schools can employ restorative practices that foster belonging. Schools must also provide anti-bias education for teachers so that they can become more aware of the complex and often invisible ways our implicit beliefs reinforce sexism and racism in the classroom. Finally, let us listen to our children. Let us create spaces where they can be safe, brave and free to embrace the fullness of their identity.