What was the highlight on induction 1?
For me, the highlight was talking with likeminded colleagues and listening to their experiences and point of view. The context was deep and thought provoking. Having the peer group was useful to explore the themes.
Reflecting on the racial identity development models that were presented…
What resonated with you? (in your personal and professional life)
Lots of the course material resonated with me. It was good to hear that I am on the right path in my journey. As Clare Harker said, you are always learning – you don’t reach the end of your journey. This is very true. Self improvement doesn’t have an end goal.
What do you find challenging?
Truly moving from IMMERSION, where the person makes a genuine attempt to connect to their own White identity and to be anti-racist: This stage is usually accompanied by deep concern with understanding and connecting to other Whites who are or have been dealing with issues of racism, to AUTONOMY: The last stage is reached when an individual has a clear
understanding of and positive connection to their White racial identity while also actively pursuing social justice. I want to make a genuine difference in my teaching practice and not a tokenistic nod to antiracist education.
How might these models support you with racial dialogue?
Further reading on the model has helped improve my understanding of the different levels and allowed me to speak to other colleagues in the EAL service, International Education and school.
Summary of Stages of Racial Identity Development
