Pan Africa Conference - Closing the Equity Gap in Education

 

What

 

I enrolled in HIST 490 and attended the 2022 Dr. Michael T. Fagin Pan African Conference on the theme “Closing the Equity Gap in Education,” centered on identifying best practices to advance equity beyond just discussing disparities. As a student, the sessions challenged me to think critically about how even well-intentioned school cultures, policies and curriculums can marginalize minority students.  

 

I aimed to expand my awareness of systemic inequities in education as a student. The sessions emphasized how discriminatory policies, lack of cultural representation in curriculums, and lower expectations for minority students perpetuate gaps. Speakers modeled vulnerability in addressing biases and shared innovative solutions focused on hiring diverse staff, sustaining cultural identities in teaching practices, and incorporating student voice in decision-making.

 

So What

 

As a student of color who grew up relatively privileged, hearing firsthand from other marginalized students was profoundly impactful. Their experiences confronting discrimination resonated with me in a way I had not grasped before. The data on ongoing achievement gaps shed light on the institutional barriers and systemic racism profoundly shaping the educational journeys of many of my peers of color. 

 

While I have been fortunate in my schooling, these issues impact students of color day-to-day in ways I am just beginning to fully comprehend. The sessions emphasized how even small, unconscious biases from well-intentioned educators and students can further marginalize minority youth.  

 

Attending this conference was eye-opening as it illuminated my previous lack of awareness stemming from my own relative position of privilege as a student of color. I have not had to face some of the same challenges or institutional barriers that significantly affect so many other talented students of color. This experience instilled in me a sense of personal responsibility to leverage my voice to advocate for positive change.

 

I left with a sense of hope and resolve to support efforts in my school community to implement some of the tangible solutions shared - diversifying staff, sustaining cultural identities, and incorporating student voice. By organizing and contributing my perspective to these initiatives, I aim to play a part in closing equity gaps and creating a more welcoming environment for all minority students. My privilege will not preclude me from being part of progress.

 

Now What

 

Having learned a great deal from this conference, I aim to apply these insights during my remaining time in student government and as a graduating senior by raising awareness on these issues and pushing for tangible changes in areas within my influence. 

 

Additionally, I intend to join future conversations, conferences, and workshops focused on educational equity to continue expanding my knowledge on achievable best practices for serving marginalized student populations. By participating in sessions on cultural awareness and restorative justice initiatives, I can bring further ideas back to my school community.

 

Moving forward in my college and professional paths, I aim to remain actively cognizant of my own privileges and biases while looking for opportunities large and small to promote equitable access and representation. My goal is to live out these learnings by advocating for and supporting policies, programs and organizations dedicated to closing systemic gaps for students of color should I become an educator myself or simply a concerned citizen.