The effects of global events reverberate in our schools just as they do throughout society. The past six months of conflict in Israel and Gaza have led to a dramatic increase in hate incidents targeting people who are—or are perceived to be—Jewish, Muslim or Arab, and this rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia extends to our schools, as well.

Learning for Justice’s newest article gives educators resources they can use to understand and address bigotry and proactively take measures to stop hate and emphasize inclusion. The article provides essential overviews of Islamophobia and antisemitism and context for how these forms of hate and bias can manifest in schools. The accompanying toolkit shares strategies and resources for countering bigotry and fostering safer and more inclusive culture in schools and communities. “Young people experience the same pain, anger and fear surrounding violence and wars as adults do, but they are still developing the cognitive and social emotional skills needed to understand these events,” the article reminds us. “That’s why we must all support young people in times of conflict.”

Teaching Toward Liberation With Love: Q&A With Author Jamilah Pitts

Toward Liberation—the first book from educator, writer, social entrepreneur and yoga teacher Jamilah Pitts—is full of practical information to help educators engage in continued professional development about how to achieve the book title's goal: how to “teach toward liberation.” In this new Q&A with LFJ, Pitts discusses her work and her hopes for the future.

Applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Supports Inclusive Education

Ensuring education is inclusive of young people with diverse needs and abilities takes intentional practice. This LFJ article and toolkit offers guidance on how the UDL framework can help educators change their learning environments to make them more accessible, creating equitable spaces that are more inclusive and provide immediate and practical benefits for everyone.

Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People and Families

All young people—including LGBTQ+ youth and children of LGBTQ+ families—should have the right to safe, affirming and inclusive schools. This LFJ resource page contains an up-to-date list of materials that educators, parents and caregivers, and other allies can use to support LGBTQ+ children and families—a responsibility that is especially important as more states move to marginalize LGBTQ+ people.

Teaching Mindful Media Creation (Webinar Recording)

Did you miss our March webinar, Teaching Mindful Media Creation? Never fear! You can watch a complete recording of the webinar—featuring a panel discussion with insight from the public radio experts at KQED of Northern California—on LFJ’s website, along with recordings of other previous webinars.