Video of Competency #9
Written version of Competency #9
Welcome to Leading-Within Wednesdays. Every other Wednesday, I will share a little bit about one of the 10 competencies introduced in the book, Leading Wihin Systems of Inequity in Education: A Liberation Guide for Leaders of Color.
Today….
Take a Stand in Pursuit of a Liberatory Education System Even If It’s Unpopular.
As I have the privilege of sharing this book with many different audiences, I often speak about this competency. I emphasize that this competency is a personal and professional choice that may change over time.
I also like to clarify that taking a stand is not a singular act of heroism but a coordinated effort where everyone is playing a different role.
What I have been struck by when hearing reactions to this competency is the stories of leaders of color who have recently elected to walk away from a job that may have served them career-wise but wasn’t serving them mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Standing up for what you believe is not always an easy choice and it may result in walking away. However, if you do elect to take a stand by walking away, it is important that you know that there is someone that will pick up the torch behind you.
Some reflections questions to help you think about this competency:
What does taking a stand look like for you this week?
Who are you collaborating with to take a stand together?
More explanation of this competency, how to practice it, and additional reflection questions and resources are in Chapter 7 of the book. I also take a deep dive into this competency in a recent ASCD blog post.
In closing…
If you started reading the book, here are a few ways you can spread the word:
Go to Amazon and rate or review the book there! Reviews are a great way for others to see that this book is worth the time to read.
Post about the book on social media using the hashtag #leadingwithin. Even better if it includes a picture of you WITH the book!
Host a book club with your affinity/ERG group. Two study guides are also available on the ASCD website - one for leaders of color and one for white co-conspirators that are perfect to start a group conversation. For book clubs with participants who have purchased and committed to reading the book, please reach out to me so I can support your journey!
Connect with me to speak to your organization or group about topics covered in the book, like ‘practicing love and rage’, ‘building a coalition’, and ‘taking a stand’.
Final Ask!
Take my year one-anniversary survey! It’s only 5 questions.
Thank YOU so much for all of your support!
See you next time when I give a brief preview of Competency #10: Act to change systemic racism every day.
If this is your first time reading, please go back and read my Introductions post.
Thanks for stopping by! Let me know what you think. If you like it, please share it with your network!