Compare And Contrast Multicultural And Antiracist Perspective

A multicultural perspective is an understanding of the similarities and differences across culture, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, and more. In short, it is a perspective that encapsulates an open-minded and yet holistic view of other individuals that limits (and hopefully eliminates) one’s own biases in their perception of others. The majority of students come from diverse backgrounds (culturally, ethnically, economically, etc.), and thus it is important to not only bring awareness of the dominant culture’s presence, but also make room for other cultures that are less dominant. With the constant stream of subliminal messages being sent to children, it is important to empower students who do not see their identities in popular culture. Even if children see their identities represented, it is often times a stereotypical representation which can perpetuate a negative sense of self. Additionally, a multicultural perspective is not only for children who are not part of the dominant culture. It is also essential for students

Having an antiracist perspective is having the ability to understand people from diverse backgrounds without discriminating against them. With racism still insidiously present in our society, it is especially important for educators to develop an antiracist perspective so that all students can learn in an environment in which they are free from discrimination. Racism can sometimes play out in the classroom in very subtle ways. It is important for the educator to not only be conscious of this, but also to encourage this consciousness among students. An antiracist perspective helps maintain a safe space for everyone. The key is for educators to not remain silent. No incident is trivial. Every incident can be a learning opportunity for the entire class when addressed in the appropriate