How to Stop Racism in School

Racism can be highly detrimental to the development of a mutually respectful education setting. To reduce the likelihood that this issue presents a problem in your school, work to stop it all together. Because racism is often rooted in long-held prejudices, overcoming the challenge can prove difficult; however, because the individuals you are trying to rid of this are not as set in their ways as older people may be, you may overcome the issue a little more effectively than you otherwise could have.

Educate students on race-related issues of the past. Show students the impact that racism can have by studying the civil rights movement as well as issues of racism in other countries, such as the Nazi regime of World War II. Use engaging teaching methods to drive home the points you are presenting, showing students pictures and videos so they can truly understand the evils of racism.

Integrate multicultural literature into English classes. Instead of reading only works featuring one race, mix it up, selecting books that include African American, Hispanic and Asian protagonists. As students read these works and learn more about different cultures, they may become less likely to discriminate.

Take a firm stance against racism. If students exhibit racist behavior, deal with it immediately. By not taking swift and immediate action, you send the message that racism is acceptable, the opposite of what you want students to think.

Form a group of interested students to start a club related to the issue. Some pupils may have a vested interest in stopping racism and, as such, may be able to work to help bring an end to racist practices. Allow them to do so by creating an after school club or similar school-related group dedicated specifically to reducing racism. Have this group prepare information assemblies and create posters and handouts related to racism.