Evaluating Impacts on Professional Practice

Some way or the other we will or have experience “ism(s)” in our life, either through racism, classism, sexism, or other.  I get so angry and feel rejected when I feel as though I’m being discriminated against. Living and growing up in the South, there are always days when you are discriminated against, in the grocery store, mall, or work.  About three months ago, around the holidays I was helping out at a local day care center in which black and white children attend.  I was a fill in for a lady that was out sick, I overheard one white lady say “who is that?” and “I hope she don’t be here all the time?” as she brought her grandchild to the center.  That kind of statement made me feel as though I was in the wrong place and around the wrong type of people.  I know it’s hard to deal with certain situations, but it’s also hard trying to hold your tongue in your mouth; she didn’t know me and I didn’t know her.  I had to stop and think and bring myself back to reality, not knowing that many people intentionally say things to hurt people feelings.  I did bring it to the attention of the supervisor that was on duty at the time and she spoke with the lady. 

 I look at us as being all equal, but some look at us as being less worthy and this can affect our sense of self.

As stated in the text, young children also show signs of absorbing whatever societal norms, stereotypes, and biases surround them concerning various aspects of their own and others’ identities (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010).  So let’s be mindful and careful about what comes out of our mouth, remember children do listen.

                                                   Reference:

Derman-Sparks, L. & Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and

Ourselves, NAEYC. Washington, DC.