#182: Should We Teach Race and Gender in the Classroom? Kaylene Stevens, Boston University

Racism and Gender issues are in the news and there is a hot debate whether all the nuances should be discussed

Why are Racism and Gender Issues So Taboo to Discuss in the Classroom?

Racism and gender issues can be taboo to discuss in the classroom for several reasons, including:

1. Fear of causing discomfort: Discussions of racism and gender issues can bring up uncomfortable feelings and memories for some students. Teachers may be hesitant to broach these topics for fear of making students feel upset or angry.
2. Lack of knowledge or training: Teachers may not feel equipped to lead discussions about racism and gender issues. They may not have received training on how to address these topics in a classroom setting, or they may not have a deep understanding of the issues themselves.
3. Concerns about controversy: Teachers may worry that discussing racism and gender issues will be controversial and may upset parents, administrators, or other stakeholders. This can lead them to avoid the topics altogether.
4. Time constraints: Teachers may feel like they do not have enough time to properly address these complex topics in the classroom. They may worry that they will not be able to cover the necessary material while also allowing time for discussion and reflection.

What are the Negative Consequences of Not Talking about Race and Gender in the Classroom?
Not talking about race and gender in the classroom can have several negative consequences, including:

1. Reinforcing stereotypes and biases: When race and gender are not discussed in the classroom, students may develop incomplete or inaccurate views of these topics based on the limited information they have access to. This can reinforce harmful stereotypes and biases that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.
2. Fostering ignorance and apathy: Without discussions about race and gender, students may lack the knowledge and understanding necessary to recognize and address issues of inequality and discrimination. This can lead to a sense of apathy or disengagement when it comes to social justice issues.
3. Creating discomfort and disengagement: When students from marginalized communities do not see themselves or their experiences represented in the classroom, they may feel uncomfortable or disengaged from the learning process. This can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from the academic community.
4. Missing opportunities for learning and growth: Discussions of race and gender can provide valuable opportunities for learning and growth. When these topics are not addressed in the classroom, students miss out on important opportunities to build empathy, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.