You’re passionate about exploring Social Justice issues in the classroom. But you’re worried about being accused of Pushing An Agenda. Here’s some Tips.
Show Guest – Rusul Alrubail
I teach students that writing is power. I believe in kindness & empathy as a motivator for our actions: they lead to a path of peace and happiness.
Episode Summary
If you’re passionate about social justice and ‘making a difference’ in students’ lives – you’re probably familiar with a few choice accusations that can cause educators to withdraw, self-censor, tone it down, or shut-up.
The accusations? That they’re not objective or neutral, that they’re pushing an agenda, or pushing their bandwagon.
In This Episode: Navigating social justice issues in the classroom.
- How do you encourage open discussion when you’re worried about accusations of pushing a bandwagon?
- What do you do if there’s conflict between students – about the issues?
There’s also the Lightning Round where courage, fear, and vulnerability are up for scrutiny. And to take us out: Standing up for your agenda. I’ve got a few What Ifs for you.
Episode Highlights
- What makes Rusul tick? (1:29)
- How Passion drives Rusul (2:23)
- How to navigate accusations of pushing an agenda or being seen as single issue (3:40 and 8:27)
- How to navigate differences of view in the classroom (6:50)
- The Lightning Round – Voice – Courage – Pushing The Edge – Vulnerability – Passion – The Power of Writing (10:34)
- Vulnerability and How to put yourself out there as a blogger (11:23)
- Standing Up for Your Agenda – Greg Curran (13:52)
Links for People and Issues Mentioned in this Episode
- Ray Rice – Rusul mentioned discussing the ‘Ray Rice Incident’ in her classroom
- Starr Sackstein – Starr was influential in Rusul overcoming her fear of writing online
Social Justice Issues – Links & Resources
- Connect with Rusul Alrubail on Twitter
- Listen to Two Social Justice Infused episodes of Pushing The Edge Podcast
- Read: How to get buy-in for the Social Justice Issues you’re passionate about. My Post inspired by chats with Rusul Alrubail and Matt Parker.
- Read – How to Make Change Happen – My Top Posts and Resources relating to driving Social Justice-related Change.
Thanks for Listening
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@GregBCurran great job on your recent episode w/ @RusulAlrubail timely topic, also wonderful strategies for engaging Ss in meaningful convos
— Jasper Fox Sr. (@jasperfoxsr) February 25, 2015
@GregBCurran @RusulAlrubail Fantastic, honest interview by an outstanding educator and advocate for all students and teachers. 🙂
— Sandy King (@sandeeteach) February 25, 2015