Improving school staff knowledge and confidence around anti-racism

Knowledge of race and racism is also known as ‘racial literacy’. Being racially literate means that educators have the knowledge, skills, awareness and confidence to talk about race and racism in their setting.

Talking about race in an education setting can feel very challenging, and these conversations can often be difficult. However, it is crucial that school staff foster a supportive and safe environment where these vital discussions can take place.

Developing racial literacy should be thought of as a continuous process of learning and un-learning for educators.

Because it’s a continuous process, it isn’t about always being correct, but instead having a willingness to learn. By working on our racial literacy, we will feel more comfortable to be curious, ask questions, facilitate discussions and to learn from each other. 

In this resource, we’re sharing books, videos, articles and more that educators can use to explore and develop their racial literacy, and think more deeply about the impact of racism on mental health.