Good evening CSUS parents and caregivers,
As many in the CSUS community know, I have two young sons who will turn two and four this summer. We devoted time this past week and weekend to continuing our family’s discussions around racism, white supremacy, and allyship. I was awed and humbled, the way I often am when working with our scholars at Cambridge Street, by children’s ability to wrestle with, comprehend, and challenge ideas that are complex, frustrating, and heartbreaking. I am grateful for the profound support, caring, and knowledge of my colleagues at CSUS and Mr. Fernandez’ leadership of our staff and community.
It is not my intent to make assumptions about how families are processing this week’s events in the larger context of this nation’s long and disappointing history of violence toward and systemic oppression of people of color and other marginalized communities. I know you are having these conversations with your children; I also know that these conversations are hard, and that ‘it takes a village’ to raise and educate the next generation.
Mr Fernandez and I are sharing the links below in hopes that you may find a resource that supports you and your family’s conversations about race, systemic oppression, and active antiracism. I know CSUS teachers are sharing resources as well.
We hope your family is able to find what it needs to hope and heal, and/or to stand up and answer the call to action. If you are looking for additional support or resources of any kind, do not hesitate to reach out.
Stay safe and well, everyone.
In solidarity and hope,
Christen
Related links:
Wee the People - An excellent organization with information, resources, and events to help involve children in conversations about race, racism, and activism. My boys and I joined many families in their
“Wee Chalk the Walk” A Family Day of Action last weekend.
How to talk to kids about racism, racial violence and police brutality
How White Parents Can Talk To Their Kids About Race | HuffPost Life