Never Choose to Remain Silent

 I don’t know any educator who isn’t ready for Summer to start to take a deep breath. This year was a difficult one for different reasons than the 2020-2021 academic year. But we are ending the school year with chances to feed our passions and refuel our batteries. 

When we reflect on this year and previous years, I want us to focus on the enriching aspects of our work while knowing we need our students to help us improve our worlds. Of course, those of us in schools often look forward to May because the month is full of celebratory events and chances to consider the challenges and successes of a school year. There is a proverbial countdown that becomes more real in May and those are the numbers that we often become focused upon.

In the last couple of weeks, I wish the countdown of days were the only facts emblazoned in my head. Unfortunately, Buffalo, Laguna Woods, and Uvalde share a commonality over a ten-day span. Maybe your community offered a moment of silence, perhaps you posted your disgust to social media, or you were amazed that this happened again. And maybe it was the same or different from when Sandy Hook, Parkland, or a host of other examples occurred. There isn’t a correct emotional reaction because we come to these events from different perspectives and backgrounds.

Our devotion to social justice causes is at the heart of our responsibilities. They are taxing and require us to give so much of ourselves. But we do it because we love it. The days are not always easy, and the emotional commitments are expansive. Being civically engaged, innovating to address global challenges, and learning how to be a good person are complex and necessary. Let’s not assume that Uvalde, Sandy Hook, Parkland, and others are our normal and that we can offer our thoughts and prayers to create the necessary change. We need to use our voices and act and bring others to join us in committing to the changes we want…the changes we need.

Those of you who have participated in the Shanti Alliance program have probably not met most of each other. Our connections are limited, yet our passions are shared. Your commitments to a better world are vital and inspiring. And for that, I am grateful and in debt to all of you. Please know that in the moments when it becomes too much and you need others to remind you why this work must persevere, your Shanti Alliance community is here to give you a hug and lift you up until you’re able to resume and do the same for others.