S2:E35 The Gathering of Educators - Part 1 of “Being and Becoming Asian in Educational Contexts, Communities, and Families”

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Summary Dr. Tairan Qui joins me as co-host for this conversation that explores the personal and professional experiences of educators, Laura Ouk and Amy Okimoto, focusing on their cultural identities, the importance of community, the necessity of advocating for Asian American history in education, and the role of personal experiences in shaping the educational practices of Asian American educators. They also highlight legislative efforts to include Asian American history in school curricula as well as the challenges posed by the current political climate. They discuss the challenges faced in the education system, the significance of affinity groups, and the need for culturally responsive teaching. In this conversation, educators, Laura Ouk and Amy Okimoto, also emphasize the need for cross-cultural education, the significance of the Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum, the role of educators as activists in advocating for truth, inclusivity in education, and the collaborative efforts to create inclusive educational resources. They believe that integrating Asian American stories enriches the curriculum. Furthermore, they argue that educators must navigate political challenges to teach truth because teaching history is a form of resistance against oppression. The conversation concludes with reflections on hope and the future of Asian American students and teachers.

Takeaways

• Personal experiences shape educators' approaches to teaching.
• Cultural identity plays a significant role in advocacy work.
• Asian affinity groups provide essential support for educators.
• Legislative changes can drive educational reform.
• Creating inclusive curriculum is necessary for representation.
• Integrating Asian American stories enriches the curriculum.
• Public access to resources fosters inclusivity in education.
• Cross-cultural education helps unite diverse communities.
• The Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum is groundbreaking.
• Educators must navigate political challenges to teach truth.
• Teaching history is a form of resistance against oppression.

Legislation, Books, and Teacher Resources Mentioned:

• TEAACH Act (Teaching Equitable Asian American Community History)
• Watercress by Andrea Wang
• Front Desk Book Collection by Kelly Yang
• Social Studies for a Better World: A Guide for Elementary Educators by Noreen Naseem Rodríguez and Katy Swalwell
• The Asian American Education Project – lesson plans and professional development

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