I’m Trying to Teach Humanity Before It Disappears

Beyond Textbooks: Cultivating 'Freedom Dreaming' in Today's Classrooms

Imagine a classroom where the echoes of gunshots and the fear of displacement don't overshadow the pursuit of knowledge. For many educators, this isn't a hypothetical scenario but a daily reality, a tightrope walk between the profound hope of shaping young minds and the chilling fear of the world's encroaching darkness.

This delicate balance was acutely felt by one educator, a writer at heart, who found a powerful new lens through which to view their teaching practice. It was a journey that began with a fellowship focused on "Voices of Change," an experience that not only sharpened their writing but also gifted them the transformative concept of "freedom dreaming."

The Seeds of Freedom Dreaming

Freedom dreaming, in this context, is more than just wishful thinking; it's an active, intentional process of envisioning and working towards a more just and equitable world, starting within the school walls. It's about weaving joy and equity into the very fabric of the curriculum, building authentic relationships that foster a sense of belonging.

This educator, for instance, refers to their students as family, a sentiment beautifully captured by a Gwendolyn Brooks quote adorning their classroom door: "We are each other’s magnitude and bond." Photos of students are strategically placed around this powerful message, a constant visual reminder of their interconnectedness.

Reimagining World History

The educator's recent dive into teaching world history has proven to be a source of immense energy and a catalyst for revolutionizing how the subject is approached. The goal is to explore narratives and individuals often overlooked, to unearth stories that truly matter and resonate with the students' lived experiences.

This passion for a more inclusive history has been significantly shaped by resources that champion marginalized voices and challenge traditional historical interpretations. It’s about moving beyond a singular, often Eurocentric, perspective to embrace a richer, more multifaceted understanding of our shared past.

Navigating a Turbulent School Year

Despite the intellectual and emotional rewards of teaching history, the most recent school year presented unprecedented challenges. The educator, based in Minneapolis, witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of violence and injustice on their community. The school year began with a tragic mass shooting at a neighboring institution, a community with deep ties to their own school.

This was followed by the unsettling reality of ICE operations, which led to the removal of neighbors and family members, culminating in heartbreaking losses. On the most difficult days, the educator found themselves fighting back tears, striving to maintain a semblance of normalcy and provide instruction to students who were also grappling with fear and anxiety.

The pervasive atmosphere of fear and the constant distractions from external events tested the mental well-being of both students and staff. It felt as though a deliberate narrative was being constructed, one that sought to undermine the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by framing it as antithetical to academic rigor.

DEI: The Lifeblood of Learning

However, as a Spanish and history teacher, the educator firmly believes that DEI is not a detractor from learning but its very lifeblood. Centering the voices of women, honoring Indigenous histories, and celebrating Black and Afrolatine lives are not just additions to the curriculum; they are essential for creating dynamic lessons that offer richer, more complex perspectives.

This approach acknowledges that true understanding of the world requires grappling with its diverse narratives and experiences, fostering empathy and critical thinking in the process. It’s about ensuring that every student sees themselves reflected in the curriculum and feels empowered to contribute their unique insights.

Community Resilience and Classroom Action

Witnessing the unwavering resilience of neighbors and friends in the face of violence and injustice has been a profound source of motivation. This collective strength inspires the educator to actively combat the notion that hope is lost, channeling that energy into their classroom practice.

Together with their students, they work to dismantle the hate and inequity that threaten to infiltrate their lives. Freedom dreaming becomes the guiding principle, transforming the desired future world into tangible curriculum components.

Humanitarian Efforts in the Classroom

A powerful example of this integration is a Spanish class lesson titled "In Times of Crisis, Humanitarian Help." Students explored the devastation wrought by a major hurricane in Caribbean nations, but the focus remained on the inspiring work of organizations like World Central Kitchen and individuals like José Andrés. Their efforts to restore dignity and provide essential aid through food preparation after natural disasters offered a beacon of hope and a practical model of empathy in action.

Echoes of Peace in World History

In the world history classroom, a deliberate decision was made to dedicate extended time to the Mauryan Empire and Ashoka's legacy. The emphasis was placed on principles of peace, nonviolence, and respect for all living things, particularly as they relate to the spread of Buddhism. This deep dive into a historical period characterized by a commitment to compassion resonated deeply with students, with one student expressing a strong consideration of converting to Buddhism.

For the educator, these moments are crucial. They underscore the possibility of leading with peace, love, and fierce empathy, even when the broader political and societal landscape appears dominated by conflict. It’s about equipping students with the understanding that positive change is not only possible but actively being pursued by individuals and movements throughout history.

The Evolving Journey of a Writer-Educator

The educator's life as a writer and educator continues to be a journey of evolution and growth. Following the Voices of Change fellowship, their poetry earned a Pushcart Prize nomination in 2024, a testament to their developing craft and voice.

This recognition, coupled with the fellowship experience, has instilled a newfound confidence, leading to the pursuit and attainment of a summer writers' residency. This residency offers a dedicated space to further explore the intersection of their personal experiences, both within and beyond the classroom, and their commitment to writing about these often-challenging realities.

The Enduring Power of Connection

After more than two decades in education, one constant remains: the deliberate cultivation of moments filled with joy, humor, and genuine connection. While academic competencies are undeniably important, the ultimate goal extends far beyond the confines of school, aiming to equip students with the skills and resilience needed for life itself.

The aspiration is for each school day to be infused with the unwritten promise of freedom dreaming. This, in turn, fosters a belief, shared by students, educators, and the wider community, in the barrier-breaking power of unity and the profound importance of a world that thrives on dignity and respect for all its inhabitants.