Equity Update
November
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Happy fall everyone!
Email: sivadasana@isssaquah.wednet.edu
Website: https://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/equity
Phone: (425) 837-7122
Facebook: facebook.com/IssaquahSchoolDistrictFamilyPartnership
Building Trusting Relationships with students
"In terms of relationships, I've been struck many times by the language that students use when describing the teachers they trust. They'll say things like: "I don't do Ms. So-and So's work, but I do my work in Mrs. So-and So's class..." What has been increasingly clear to me in my experiences in schools and with students- which also bears out in the research- is that students exposed to the risk factors most predictive of academic underperformance are much more likely than their less-impacted peers to use language which indicates that they learn for their teachers as much as they from them. For them, relationships are the channel through which their investment in school is personalized."
*(Source- Culturally Responsive Education in the classroom-Adeyemi Stembridge)
In all the equity and culturally responsive training we receive, we know that the foundation is always Relationships.
History Months
Native American Heritage Month
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and rejoice in the rich culture, history, traditions and contributions of the Native Americans. This month, especially, and every month, we should take the time to educate ourselves on the historical and present day lives of the tribal citizens in our immediate local area and throughout the United States. The theme for 2021 is “Resilient and Enduring: We are Native People.”
Here are links for more information, webinars and webcasts.
https://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/
https://www.ncai.org/initiatives/native-american-heritage-month
Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty in WA State
Some may be wondering what does Since Time Immemorial mean and what does Tribal Sovereignty mean? Basic definitions have been provided below.
- Since Time Immemorial: Time so long past as to be indefinite in history or tradition (Merriam Webster).
- Tribal Sovereignty: Tribal sovereignty encompasses legal, cultural, political, and historical traditions that are a complex mix of both European and Indigenous approaches to governance. There are three types of sovereign governments in the United States: the federal government, state governments, and tribal governments. Even as the members of the tribes are U.S. citizens, their tribal heritage, culture and identity are considered distinct and are federally recognized. This sovereignty recognizes a tribe's claim to independent identity and citizenship
Beginning in 2016 the Issaquah School District began a partnership with the Snoqualmie Tribe to address Since Time Immemorial and Tribal Sovereignty. Specifically, the Snoqualmie tribe partnered with us to provide support and guidance around our Elementary Social Studies curriculum adoption, with a creation of a Land Acknowledgement for our school district to use, and have facilitated professional development on Tribal Sovereignty for elementary teachers and content level TOSAS.
Land Acknowledgement is crucial to the foundational understanding of Since Time Immemorial and Tribal Sovereignty. It is one way to increase the visibility of Native Peoples and combat the erasure of Native peoples. As a result of erasure, many Americans do not believe Native people exist today. Land Acknowledgement is a good first step to building more substantial relationships and partnerships with Native people and communities. These acknowledgements are often also an opportunity to recognize Native peoples in the present day. Native peoples continue to protect our land and water, maintain cultural traditions and practices, and contribute in immeasurable ways to society today.
A Land Acknowledgement is an intentional well-researched and formal statement that acknowledges:
- The indigenous peoples who have traditionally stewarded the land you occupy
- The history of the how that land was taken
- The present Indigenous stewards of the land
- The contributions of contemporary Indigenous peoples
Source – IllumiNative nonprofit initiative designed to increase the visibility of Natives in American Society.
Issaquah School District Proclamation of Snoqualmie Tribe Ancestral Lands
In partnership with the Snoqualmie Tribe, the Issaquah School District has made a commitment through education and awareness to students and staff of the Snoqualmie Tribe Ancestral Lands Movement. The Ancestral Lands Movement seeks to spread awareness of the Snoqualmie people who have lived in the southern Salish Sea region since time immemorial and share the significance of these lands and provide information on how people can help the Tribe in respecting, restoring, and protecting these lands. You can learn more here.
The Issaquah School District has pledged to support the Snoqualmie Tribe Ancestral Lands Movement as a partner. The Snoqualmie Tribe Ancestral Lands Proclamation was signed by the Issaquah School District School Board at the School Board meeting on 10/28/21. You can read the proclamation below.
Whereas, the Snoqualmie Tribe as a sovereign tribal nation signed the Treaty of Point Elliott on January 22, 1855. By signing this Treaty, the United States government affirmed and recognized the Snoqualmie’s inalienable, inherent status as a separate sovereign nation that has existed since time Immemorial. In return for extensive concessions by the Snoqualmie People, the United States recognized and promised to respect and protect the Snoqualmie Tribe’s reserved rights, including the ability to fish, hunt, and gather in their ancestral homelands as they had done for thousands of years before.
Whereas, the Snoqualmie Tribe has launched the Ancestral Lands Movement, where through education and awareness, individuals can integrate land acknowledgement and respect for the Snoqualmie Tribe into their recreational practices and experiences. The Ancestral Lands Movement seeks to spread awareness of the Snoqualmie people who have lived in the southern Salish Sea region since time immemorial and share the significance of these lands and provide information on how people can help the Tribe in respecting, restoring, and protecting these lands.
Whereas, the Salish Sea region has grown in population, the Snoqualmie Tribe’s ancestral lands have been heavily impacted by recreation and where increased visitation has resulted in a degradation of land.
Whereas, the Issaquah School District pledges to support the Snoqualmie’s Tribe Ancestral Lands Movement and demonstrate respect for the Snoqualmie Tribe’s ancestral lands by helping to protect and restore these lands for generations to come.
Upcoming Professional Development
Optional ISD PD - Communicating with our Parents at Parent Teacher Conferences
The Equity Department will provide an optional PD opportunity to support teachers prepare for the upcoming Parent-Teacher conferences. Participants will learn some culturally responsive tips and information to help with conferences with our culturally and linguistically diverse families. We will do a practice Language Line call and go over the Alboum website with tips on how to request Zoom interpreters. We will discuss pros and cons for in person vs. Zoom interpreters for parent meetings.
Participants will receive 1-hour Cultural Competency Clock Hours. Time: Nov 18th 4 pm to 5 pm and Nov. 23rd 4 pm to 5 pm Register here.
Upcoming Religious Holidays that may impact student learning
El Día de los Muertos
The Day of the Dead is celebrated primarily in Mexico (the central and southern regions).. It became a national holiday in the 1960s and is widely celebrated on November 1st and 2nd to remember family members and friends who have passed away. November 1st is dedicated to children and Nov 2nd to adults who have passed away. They are remembered with displays of colorful altars or “ofrendas” with their favorite food, favorite drinks, flowers (marigolds), candles to guide the sprits and “pan de muerto”. This tradition is part of the Mexican belief of the life, death and rebirth continuum. Other countries in Central and South America also observe the “Day of the Dead” but their observance of the day looks different. As in Mexico, gravesites are decorated with flowers but the celebration is on a smaller scale and mainly a family day.
Students and families of Mexican heritage may be participating in community or family celebrations on Nov. 2nd evening and unable to attend evening events.
Diwali: November 4
Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. It is the biggest holiday in India and like Christmas, all schools are closed for the week during Diwali.
It has also been compared to Christmas with fireworks. Families and friends gather and lots of celebrations occur at homes and in the community. Celebrations include religious rituals such as puja. Homes are decorated with rangolis and diyas (earthen lamps). Gifts are exchanged and yummy sweets consumed by all celebrating.
This year, as Diwali was from Tuesday to Saturday, many families may have the big celebration on Friday and/or Saturday. Some families may also have family and smaller celebrations throughout the Diwali days depending on their family traditions and how Diwali is celebrated in their region. How Diwali is celebrated may vary based on family traditions, regional traditional and specific Hindu sects.
Please be aware that Diwali celebrations may impact the student for test or assignment preparation that week. Also, families of Indian heritage may not be able to participate in evening activities that week (especially Friday night).
Upcoming Baha’i Holy Days in November
There are a total of nine Baha’i Holy Days in the year and they are observed from sunset to sunset and Baha’is suspend work in that duration. Four of these days fall in the month of November this year which means they will start from 4-5 pm the day before to 4-5 pm of the date listed below, depending on the time sunsets. It is important to note also that these observation dates may vary slightly from year to year as they are determined based on the lunar calendar. Although three of the four days coincide with weekends, your students are still impacted as they participate in community observances. Please be advised that your Baha’i students may request an extension on any homework assigned that would fall over these dates.
Please see below for a short explanation of each Holy Day and a link to find more information. (What do Baha’is believe?)
Together, the Birth of the Bab and the Birth of Baha’u’llah are referred to as the Twin Holy Days.
Birth of the Bab – Saturday, 11/6
The Baha’i celebrate the birth of Siyyid ‘Alí-Muhammad Shirazi, the Bab. The Bab’s message inspired hope and exactment at a time of turmoil in Iran. With His call for spiritual and moral reformation, and His attention to improving the position of women and the lot of the poor, the Báb’s prescription for spiritual renewal was revolutionary.
Birth of Baha’u’llah – Sunday, 11/7
Mirza Husayn-Ali, who is known to the world by His title, Baha’u’llah (Glory of God). Born in Tehran, He was the son of a government minister and grew up amongst noblemen and courtiers. Although He was encouraged and able to follow in His father’s footsteps and live the life of material comfort, He chose to instead dedicate His life to the betterment of humanity.
Day of the Covenant – Thursday, 11/25
This is the day on which Baha’is celebrate the appointment of ‘Abdu’l-Baha as the Center of the Covenant of Baha’u’llah. One of the many titles He was given by His Father, Baha’u’llah, is “The Perfect Exemplar” meaning that He is the perfect exemplar of Baha’i ethics, virtues, and wisdom. However, the only title He ever used Himself was ‘Abdu’l-Baha meaning “Servant of Glory” in Arabic. He lived in exile and hardship, along with His illustrious Father and family from a very young age and grew up dedicating his life to the service of his family and humanity.
Ascension of ‘Abdul’-Baha – Saturday, 11/27
This year, 2021, marks the Centenary of the Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Baha who passed away in Israel (then Palestine) on November 28, 1921. His loss was keenly felt not only by the Baha’i community of the world but by the world at large due to his humanitarian work in Palestine during World War I.
Hanukkah – Nov. 28 (evening) to Dec. 5th (evening)
Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is the Festival of Lights. It is an eight day religious observance that remembers the Jewish people’s struggle for religious freedom in the Maccabean War and commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It will begin at sunset on Nov. 28th with special blessings. Many Jewish families will light the menorah, a type of candelabrum starting on the first day of Hanukkah and light a candle each day till the last day of Hanukkah. Hanukkah is celebrated over eight days to celebrate the miracle of the oil. After the destruction of the Jewish temple, only a small amount of oil could be found to relight the holy light, but it miraculously lasted for eight days allowing the Jewish people to make more and keep the eternal light burning. Many families of Jewish faith will celebrate by sharing special Hanukkah dishes such as potato latkes or jelly doughnuts and exchanging gifts. Families may celebrate and play with a dreidel and sing songs to celebrate.
Hanukkah is not considered a holy day where members of the Jewish community must take off from work and spend the morning in prayer. It is a home or family celebration.
For most students, it will not significantly impact their ability to engage with school-work such as homework or studying for exams. Please keep in mind families will not be able to attend evening events on these dates. Please avoid comparing it to Christmas.
Swastika – Cultural and historical representations
Swastika – Cultural and historical representations
One of the ancient holy symbols in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism is the swastika. It symbolizes luck and prosperity. It is often placed on or near the door to extend good wishes to all who enter the home. Unfortunately, the Nazi and Hitler use of it has created a negative impact on Hindus, Buddhists and Jains use of their traditional religious symbols. Families of Indian, Nepali or Bangladeshi heritage may feel hesitancy when celebrating their religious traditions. This symbol has different meanings for different people. To many people, it is a symbol of hate which represents anti-Semitism and is a reminder of the atrocities of WWII. To others, it is a symbol of luck and prosperity that is used for joyous celebrations such as weddings and Diwali.
Building awareness and understanding of the difference between the two symbols that to the untrained eye may look the same is important. The Nazi swastika was typically black on white, surrounded by red, on a 45-degree angle. Those of Eastern religions typically feature horizontal and vertical lines, sometimes with dots added and different color arrangements. Here is a resource with more information about the swastika from Hindu perspective.
Administrators of Color Affinity Group
A racial affinity group is a group that is organized and designed to support administrators of color, to help them find connection, support, and inspiration. The group is structured to create safe, structured, professional connection and conversation. If you would like to join please fill out the form below. Please contact Alaina Sivadasan at (SivadasanA@issaquah.wednet.edu)
if you have any questions.
INTEREST FORM: https://forms.gle/apc2ApV4fcvX6Nd48
While this group is designed specifically to reach administrators that racially identify as African, Black, Hispanic, LatinX, Native American, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Islander or mix of any, the group is open to all staff.
Educators of Color Affinity Group
A racial affinity group is a group that is organized and designed to support educators of color, to help them find connection, support, and inspiration. The group is structured to create safe, structured, professional connection and conversation. If you would like to join please fill out the form below. Please contact Sharon Roy at roys@issaquah.wednet.edu if you have any questions.
INTEREST FORM: https://forms.gle/AqeF3ePZtoVJfXoh8
While this group is designed specifically to reach staff that racially identify as African, Black, Hispanic, LatinX, Native American, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Islander or mix of any, the group is open to all staff.
Interpreter and Translation Information and Documents
Information vital to a student's success must be communicated with all families in a language they can understand. We cannot rely on friends, relatives, or students to interpret for their parents. The ISD serves a linguistically diverse community. There are over 25 languages currently listed as their preferred language of communication: Spanish and Chinese being the top two. A growing number of Korean, Vietnamese, Russian, Japanese, and Arabic speaking families also prefer communication with their schools in their native languages. The linked flowcharts for and Interpreters and Translations are a quick reference guide to follow when determining how and when to request services. You can find more detailed information on Staff Hub - Interpreter Information and Staff Hub - Translation of Documents. The Cultural and Family Partnership Team also provides tips and resources for communicating with families on their Staff Hub page.
Interpreter and Translation Services
Provided below are pre-recorded power points for how to use Language Line, Alboum and Google Voice (see below) *Please reach out to Lorna Gilmour if you want to schedule a training with her.