On Wednesday, June 1st, SRI Board Members Pete Bermudez and Raquel Diaz joined SRI affiliates Valerie Mendez Farinas and Sharon Jones to host a Dream Big for Equity Event at John A. Ferguson High School in Miami, Florida. Members of the audience included, PreK-12th grade teachers, college professors, and college students. Participants watched a screening of Cracking the code: The system of racial inequity. Following the film, members of the group engaged in reflective writing, constructivist listening, and small group discussions. Conversations helped participants capture what stood out for them as they viewed the film and what actions they could take to help ensure excellence and equity across the community.
General Comments from participants after the event included:
“I am not as aware as I thought.”
“This system of racial equity is somewhat of a new concept (sort of speak) for me. I was able to relate to some of the topics or issues discussed. However, what has changed for me is to see people in a broader light and to give people the benefit of the doubt without being confrontational but being calm in unforeseen situations when expressing feelings or thoughts.”
“I know that race is something that will not go away and as my boys get older they will get judged for the color of their skin and not what they know.”
“I am thinking more in terms of structural inequity. I have the opportunity to interact within and across several institutions, which means that I can effect structural change.”
As a result of the experience, participants committed to the following:
“Keep examining myself to be more careful and aware of my own beliefs.”
“Engage stakeholders to engage in difficult conversations regarding racial inequity.”
“I will be more mindful or open-minded about people in general. I think it’s important to think before speaking.”
A majority of participants expressed an interest in attending future sessions to continue conversations around race. We are considering hosting similar events in other communities in Miami and around the state of Florida.
