The NAEYC Advancing Equity position statement is important for all early childhood educators, but particularly for white educators, because it provides guidance and recommendations for addressing issues of systemic racism and oppression in early childhood education and that is our particular responsibility. As members of the dominant culture, white educators have a responsibility to actively work to promote equity and inclusion in their classrooms.

One of the key points of the position statement is that early childhood education can either perpetuate or disrupt systems of oppression. White educators, who hold significant power and influence in early childhood education, must recognize and address their own implicit biases and work to create an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environment that values and uplifts BIPOC children.
Furthermore, the position statement emphasizes the importance of promoting equity in early childhood education as a social justice issue. It recognizes that systemic racism and oppression can have a lasting impact on children's development and academic success, and that early childhood educators have a responsibility to work towards creating a more just and equitable society. We must speak up for our children's futures, and we must do the work now. As white educators, we need to recognize the critical role that we play in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
So, after reading the NAEYC Advancing Equity position statement, start by taking these actionable steps:

Engage in self-reflection: Educators should examine their own biases and beliefs and work to address any implicit biases they may hold. This can involve seeking out professional development opportunities to learn more about cultural responsiveness and anti-bias education.
Create an inclusive classroom environment: Educators should work to create a classroom environment that is inclusive and values and respects all cultures, languages, and abilities. This can involve incorporating diverse materials and perspectives into the curriculum, as well as creating opportunities for children to learn about and celebrate each other's cultures.
Use culturally responsive teaching practices: Educators should adapt their teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of each child, and incorporate cultural knowledge and practices into the curriculum. This can involve using children's home languages in the classroom, incorporating culturally relevant literature and materials, and engaging families and communities in the learning process.
Advocate for equity: Educators should be advocates for policies and practices that promote equity in early childhood education. This can involve advocating for increased funding for early childhood programs, promoting policies that support working families, and working to eliminate systemic barriers to education.
Build partnerships with families and communities: Educators should work to establish positive relationships with families and communities, recognizing that parents and caregivers are the experts on their own children. By building partnerships with families, educators can create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment for children.
We didn't start these systems of oppression, but we can end them, together.
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