Dear Barbara,
I am a 35 year old white mother of 2 biracial children (ages 5 and 7). We live in a predominantly white area and I'm worried that the children are not getting enough exposure
to other cultures. Should I speak to the school? What can I do to make sure they are exposed to both sides of their heritage (black and white)?
Signed,
Under-exposed
Dear Under-Exposed
While practicing and teaching cultural diversity is something we should all expect in the institutions we work, learn, shop and dine in in our daily lives, the ultimate responsibility in your situation is unfortunately resting with you. Speaking to the school may introduce dialogue and programs that may be long overdue and well needed, however it may backfire if you are threatening the safety zone maintained by your school system as it pertains to matters of cultural diversity. Often, schools and workplaces believe that a reference in a monthly newsletter about Hispanic Heritage Month, or Black HIstory Month demonstrates that they are embracing a  multicultural environment. While this is a start, the real work happens when persons like yourself are allowed to form committees and cirriculums to actually dialogue about differences, rather than just pointing them out. Plan to meet with the classroom teacher and follow the chain of command all the way to the superintendent if necessary. In the meantime, begin your own education with your children by exposing them to events, people, and places in order to teach them about their diverse heritage.
