Teacher Truth Perspectives - Educator Reflections
“TEACHER TRUTH IS ANCHORED IN THE IDEA OF HUMANIZING RESEARCH…
AND HONORING STORY AND VOICE.” - DR. TAMEKA MCGLAW
In the words of Teacher Truth researcher, Dr. Britte Cheng, “We want to take leadership to help folks think about how to support those self-formed communities in educational systems so that we can actually provide successful, sustained supports for Black educators.” To that end, we’re sharing out resonant reflections from the people at the core of the work. Whether or not you were in attendance at our 3rd annual Perspectives event, and whether or not you’re a Black educator yourself, we hope you’ll find value in these reflections.
REFLECTIONS FROM ABDUL-HAQQ KHALIFAH, ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Resistance is necessary, but it's not enough. The other component is going on the offensive, where you're dictating terms and not just responding. If you're constantly responding and resisting. it's hard to create because you're combating things that's coming at you.
So for me, how do I go on the offensive and create? My parents have always taught us that nobody can stop you but you, so I move with that offensive mentality. A lot of times we have unrealistic expectations. And so it's not those folks letting us down; it's just we have expectations sometimes that are not realistic of who we’re dealing with. I might not agree with it, I might not like it, but I accept it. And I've learned those are two different things. To accept reality, you don't have to agree with it, but you'll be better off so you can move and navigate. Even a challenge is an opportunity to grow.
