Dr. James Whitfield

justice

Resist

by Leave a Comment

It’s as if James Baldwin was talking to me from 1963 when he stated, “It will be hard, James, but you come from sturdy, peasant stock, men who picked cotton and dammed rivers and built railroads, and, in the teeth of the most terrifying odds, achieved an unassailable and monumental dignity.” (The Fire Next Time)

And here I stand!

Stand Up. Speak Out.

When I see something that is nefarious trying to rear its head, I feel a responsibility to speak out. I don’t speak out for self-preservation. Honestly, if that were the goal I’d likely just keep my mouth shut, as so many choose to do. I speak out because I see something that is tearing away at the fabric of our society, pitting us against each other as enemies, appealing to the deepest fears in our souls. When I see it, I call it. I stand by it, firmly. There is too much at stake. 

And I refuse to sit idly by and allow my fellow man to suffer under the weight of bigotry, hate, and intolerance. Silence serves no one. Not even yourself because, as history has shown, while it may not be you they’re after in the moment…they’re coming, just you wait. No, silence is complicity to whatever is seeking to plague our society.

And Then They Came For You…

I’ve done my due best to speak up and sound the alarm about what is going on in our local communities surrounding schools. Some chose to ignore those cries and believe that there was some world where this small group of hateful, intolerant, Facebook Echo-Chamber Warriors were just after me. Once I was a distant memory, all would be well in the land, and they could go on about their beautiful lives.

But it was never about me. And that is, precisely, what I told every news outlet I spoke to for the better part of the last two years. I’d be a fool to believe this was all about me. Many were fools that ended up believing that tale. No, my story is no isolated ordeal. Nor is it new to our communities. This is historical. 

But far too many people fail to embrace history in such a way. They’re blindsided when the dog whistles of “parental rights” and “protect our students” crops up. Then, by the time they realize that this turns out to be the same old manufactured panic we’ve dealt with over the course of our nation’s history, the bill is due. The nonsense has landed, squarely, at their door and they look around, baffled that this could ever happen to them.

I’ve been trying to tell you. Do you hear me know? Is it clear to you?

They are after the whole thing!

The Guardians of Our Society, Educators

I’ve had the opportunity to speak to thousands of educators over the course of my time in public education. Every chance I get, I tell them my story and how, had it not been for a handful of educators, I know that my life would be drastically different. They rescued me from a very dark place. 

I share that with them to emphasize that there are students like me in their classrooms every day. Some facing greater challenges, others fewer. Yet, their responsibility is to educate them all as they come to them. It’s not an effortless task. 

They bear the weight of addressing so many of society’s ills in addition to the content they teach. Nevertheless, they tackle it with a smile and unwavering determination. They are truly the guardians of our society.

And that’s what’s at stake – our society. We have folks with nefarious agendas pumping millions of dollars into a machine that seeks to destroy public schools as we know it. I know you’ve heard the rallying cries. But it ain’t all what it seems. So I want you to be informed. And I want you to reach out to your legislators as we head into this crazy special session to let them know that you won’t stand for the lies.

Deep in The Heart of Texas

In Article 7, Sec. 1.  SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE OF SYSTEM OF PUBLIC FREE SCHOOLS in the Texas Constitution it states 

A general diffusion of knowledge being essential to the preservation of the liberties and rights of the people, it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.

That doesn’t say it could be. It doesn’t say it should be. It says it SHALL be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.

Support and maintenance of an efficient system of public and free schools could look like a few things:

  1. Fully funding special education so students with specific needs aren’t left behind. 
  2. Increasing teacher pay so teachers aren’t forced to work two and three jobs just to make ends meet. 
  3. Increasing the basic allotment (which has not been increased since 2019)
  4. Ending the reliance on outdated standardized measures of assessment that don’t take into account meaningful, relevant learning experiences and 21st century skills our students need and various industries desire.
  5. A meaningful cost of living increase for our retired educators.
  6. Keeping public dollars in public schools.

Texas currently stands at 43rd place in terms of per-student funding and our educators are facing a significant pay gap of $7,500 compared to the national average. Addressing these disparities in teacher compensation and providing attractive incentives for new educators should unquestionably top our list of priorities.

However, regrettably, our governor has called a special session to convene with one of the aims being to advance the controversial concept of vouchers. This shift in focus is concerning because vouchers have the potential to exacerbate our education challenges rather than alleviate them. By diverting resources away from our public schools, they could usher in larger class sizes, a further decline in teacher salaries, and ultimately, detrimental outcomes for the students of Texas.

How Did We Get Here?

In case you’ve been sleeping up till now, let me introduce you to Tim Dunn and Farris Wilks, a billionaire duo out of West Texas. These two aren’t just your average rich folks who just like fancy toys; they’re the architects of a stunning political narrative that’s shaping the Lone Star State in ways that could soon leave it unrecognizable.

These billionaires have a plan in motion that involves a not-so-secret scheme in the world of education – a private school voucher system. But, their ambitions don’t stop there. What they’re really aiming for is a monumental transformation of Texas itself, steering it towards an authoritarian, Christian Nationalist state. 

Two billionaire-pastors with an abundance of riches are pouring their fortunes into making their extreme Christian nationalist worldview a reality. In the second-largest state in the U.S., no less. Before I go further, let me remind you – I am a Christian. But I ain’t this. The Christian nationalist worldview is something out of a dystopian novel – think Handmaid’s Tale. I don’t say this, jokingly. I’m dead serious.  It continues to shock me that this incredible story flies under the radar. But we better start paying attention.

Their financial influence is otherworldly. With over $100 million in contributions, they’ve effectively bought their way into the hearts and minds of Texas politicians. And it’s not just politicians; they’ve also created a vast web of PACs, think tanks, and media outlets that dance to their tune. Every extremist policy coming out of Texas recently? Well, it seems to trace back to these two.

When they’re not busy bankrolling politics, Dunn and Wilks take to their pulpits, where they preach a theology of power, control, and domination, rather than the universal love typically associated with Christianity. Alarming as that may be, their radical beliefs are translating into Texas law.

Their reach is staggering. Nearly every Republican State Senator and over half of Republican House members in Texas have accepted their money. For some, a whopping half of their campaign contributions stem from these two billionaires. Even the highest-ranking officials in Texas have their pockets lined by Dunn and Wilks.

Out of one side of their mouths they’re claiming that teachers are indoctrinating students and the other they’re bankrolling PragerU, a right-wing “education” platform, they’re determined to push in to shape the very curriculum in our schools. Talk about irony. We exist to help young people develop critical thinking skills, amongst other valuable 21st century skills. They LITERALLY want to indoctrinate young people to believe as they do, or else. You can’t make this stuff up. Always remember, their accusations are, quite often, admissions.

But here’s where it gets downright audacious: they’re embarking on their most ambitious endeavor yet—replacing public schools with Christian ones. Governor Abbott has even called a special session to push through their voucher scheme. The playbook has been front and center from the beginning. Many of us have tried to sound the alarm so many times, but here goes again. 

They seek to sow mistrust by fueling controversies to discredit public schools. And in the midst of the confusion and fear they will pass private school vouchers to defund them. Then, in the end, close public schools entirely, shifting the entire system to private, Christian nationalist education.

Call to Action

I love my home state of Texas. We’re above this. We are too monumental to be sold to the highest bidder. Fear, hate, intolerance, and bigotry cannot rule the day. We may still have a ways to go, but we’ve come so far. In the end, school vouchers – ESA’s, whatever they want to call them – in Texas undermines our Constitution and our commitment to providing equitable and quality education for all of our students.

I hope you’ll join me in reaching out to your legislator and letting them know, LOUD and CLEAR, that we want public dollars to stay in public schools. Let them know they’ve insulted our intelligence for far too long. And we refuse to be sold to the highest bidder. 

SAY NO TO SCHOOL VOUCHERS!!!

 

Weekly With Whitfield – I’m Back

by 2 Comments

On March 18th, 1995, a 16 year-old basketball junkie, would hear two words that sent him through the roof with excitement.

On October 6th, 1993, his favorite player walked away from the game of basketball in the prime of his career. Michael Jordan, the greatest basketball player to ever grace the hardwood – I said it – announced his retirement from the NBA.

That kid was me. My mother and I had just watched his Chicago Bulls secure a three-peat just months earlier and all was well in the world. And I was completely devastated. But while my childhood hero was no longer in the game, my love for the game continued to grow. I was determined, like so many kids of that day, to be “Like Mike” (sorry, not sorry, for that jingle ringing in your head the rest of the day).

Wanna Be a Baller

Over the span of those two years I watched my game grow in ways I’d never imagined. I was putting in work. Everywhere I went, I had a basketball in my hand. If there was a good run going on somewhere, I was there.

I wore out the VHS tapes – Come Fly With Me, Michael Jordan’s Playground, Air Time, Above & Beyond! I’d watch a little bit, press pause, go out in the yard and try to emulate those moves, then come back in and watch some more; then do it all again…for hours.

When I wasn’t watching those tapes I was doing various leaping exercises. I was a small, scrawny runt, but I wanted to fly. I wanted to know the air up there. One of the things I did was alternating one legged jumps, working on my form, scraping my hand against the roof shingles. I was gauging how high based on where the scrape was. I had to get about half way up my arm before I could even consider attempting to dunk a basketball. 

I’d also wear ankle weights everywhere I walked. I remember when I’d take them off to hoop I felt like I was free. I was flying. And, while I was just a mighty 5’7”, pretty quickly those scrapes began to get higher and higher on my arm. And I did a horrible job of hiding them. So much so that one of my school counselors called me in for a well-check to make sure I was ok. When I explained to her how I’d come by those scapes she was a bit perplexed. I just smiled and said “come watch me play basketball. I’ll show you what I’ve been up to.”

It was over the course of this time that a spark was lit inside my soul. I know that, for some, this may sound silly. How on earth does a game have such an impact on one’s life? Well, for me it was much more than a game – it was a way out. And with each passing day I poured everything I had into being the best basketball player I could be.

I was still an average student in the classroom. But I was never one to speak up in class. If I could sit in your class and just get by without saying a word, I was good. My teachers and many of my peers I went to high school with didn’t hear me say too much. I was fairly quiet and a bit shy.

But when I stepped foot on that court it all changed. In an instant I transformed into something different. I like to call it passion. But I will be totally honest, that “passion” got me in plenty of trouble, as I was competitive as hell. I was driven to win and had a desire to completely destroy the person in front of me. By no means did I get the better of everyone that I faced. While I definitely tried, me getting the better of someone is not what I’m getting at here. 

The transformation that took place on that court came from an extreme confidence. Over the course of a couple years I’d gone from a relatively non-athletic, scrawny kid, to a dude that was dunking on guys that were over a foot taller than me. And that confidence and ability to do some pretty athletic things came from hard work, dedication, a desire to change my circumstances, and the devastation that came with Michael Jordan being away from the game.

While he may have stepped away, he never really did in my world, as I had him on repeat every single day. But then, on that day in March of 1995, something hit me differently when I heard wind of those two magical words “I’m Back” – the fax heard round the world. 

Transformation

Over the course of two years my whole world changed. In the midst of the chaos that surrounded me, I found a way to focus on where I wanted to be. I set goals. I was disciplined in my approach – no days off. And I was determined to use that round, orange ball to find a way out.

I never made the NBA, as I dreamed. But I did go on to fulfill a goal of playing collegiate basketball – something I always promised my mother I would do. 

But, as I reflect on those times – all the sweat, pain, soreness, mental and physical exhaustion, fighting poverty…you name it – I see how God was using basketball as a conduit to prepare me for the uncertain seasons of life. It’s why basketball has always been more than a game to me. God used a game to prepare me for the many “I’m Back” moments that would undoubtedly unfold on the other side of the mountain.

I’m Back

It has been a long road over the course of the last two years. I’ve been attacked by folks with nefarious agendas. We’ve received hate mail and death threats. I’ve been told by many folks who I’d held in high esteem that I’d never work in public education again in this area due to the media firestorm that accompanied my trials. Believe me, the book is coming. It has been one heck of a ride.

But I’ve also received support and encouragement from so many, near and far. I’ve connected with wonderful educators and advocates across the country along this journey. I’ve partnered with national organizations who are committed to supporting educators in their work. I’ve had the opportunity to testify before the House Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties with regard to classroom censorship. I’ve spoken to thousands of people in various keynotes, workshops, and panels. I’ve worked with preservice teachers to help prepare them for the climate they’re jumping into.

I reached back to the lessons learned by that young boy. I didn’t wallow in pity of devastation. While I was hurting and definitely had my share of challenging days, the strength of my faith refused to allow the obstacles to block my purpose. I got straight to work. I honed my craft, stayed true to my beliefs, and since Wednesday of this week…I’M BACK!!!

Weekly With Whitfield – Devastated

by 1 Comment

Most days I try to keep it moving in gratitude. I am so very grateful for the many blessings in my life – my wife, kids, friends, profession, health – amongst a host of other things. But living in gratitude does not make you immune to the ills of society. Our relationship between gratitude and the blows that life deals is, well…let’s just say it’s complicated.

Gratitude Amidst Devastation

So often, when things go awry in our society, someone comes along with the “it could be worse” line. And, while I believe this comes from a good place (most of the time), I can’t help but feel like it diminishes the very real tragedies and struggles folks are going through in real time. 

Yes, it could “always be worse”…but stating such isn’t a meaningful way of dealing with chaos. We can still practice gratitude while being in a state of disappointment, disgust, anger, and/or frustration. But we operate in such a “grind it out” and “push through” society that often urges people towards feeling as we want them to feel (good) rather than the way they may need to feel at the time.

So this week, while I am so grateful for my many blessings, it has also been devastating.

Devastated

Devastation sets in with each passing evening this week. I turn on the news to hear of the latest shooting here in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. 

Shooting. 

Another Shooting.

Another Shooting.

Weather.

Sports.

A horrid pattern that makes one question humanity. Senseless acts that change the trajectory of so many lives.

Paola Nunez Linares, a loving wife, daughter, and step-mom, was shot and killed – taken from her family, in an act of road rage – an innocent passenger.

Kyrie Barnes, a 7 year-old boy, was shot and killed – taken from his mother and family by “celebratory gunfire” while playing video games. 

So many lives upended as 11 people were shot while celebrating the 4th of July at ComoFest. Paul Willis (18), Cynthia Santos (22), and Gabriella Navarrete (18) were all victims of this senseless, vile act. 

Do Not Honk in Texas

I’ve told my wife a million times – I’m not honkin’ at anyone here in Texas. I’m moving over when folks are driving crazy. I’m not engaging with anyone on these streets because there are far too many people running around strapped – not only with firearms, but erratic emotions.

It’s really wild to think you can’t even use your horn here in Texas. We use the horn for a variety of reasons but, most importantly, safety. There was a day, honking your horn at someone could mean a variety of things. 

You could give them the two-honks, which is like “hello”. You could give them the brief honk, which is like “I see ya”, or you could give them the full-on, blaring “I need you to realize you’re about to hit me” honk, and all would be well with the world. At most, you’d be told you’re “numero uno”. But not today. You better not honk at someone out in these Texas streets. Chances are, that person is armed. And, as evidenced by recent incidents – they aren’t in an emotional space to handle it.

To Be Clear

Let me be clear – my intention is not to advocate for the confiscation of all firearms. I firmly believe in responsible gun ownership and respect the rights of individuals who adhere to proper protocols. However, we must reckon with the fact that none of the tragedies mentioned above align with the concept of responsible gun ownership. We find ourselves with a grave, devastating problem. And it concerns me that, with each passing day and news cycle, we seem to be growing increasingly desensitized to it all. 

As we witness these repeated acts of violence and tragedy, it becomes easy to slip into a state of indifference or numbness. This constant exposure to distressing news and images, slowly erodes our sensitivities and emotional response. And this creates a perilous detachment from the magnitude of the predicament we find ourselves in.

When we lose touch with the pain and suffering brought on by these events, we risk losing our sense of humanity. As our ability to empathize and take action diminishes, the cycle of violence continues to ravage our communities. All of this perpetuates a dangerous norm where we accept tragedy as an unavoidable part of our existence, rather than striving to prevent it or even attempt to make things better.

From Fixation to Transformation

Our fascination with firearms is terrifying. But, perhaps, what’s more deeply troubling is our unwillingness and/or inability to engage in meaningful dialogue, especially when the influence of social media algorithms pushes us further apart.

I implore you to open your hearts. May we care enough to strive for justice for these grieving families. Let’s care enough to foster safer communities. Communities where children can enjoy playing video games in their homes without the constant fear of losing their lives. Let’s care enough to take action instead of dismissing these tragedies as mere “misfortune” or claiming that “things could be worse.”

While it is true that circumstances could always be worse, it is essential to work towards the possibility of something better. What if we could foster a culture that values human life above all else, where empathy and understanding guide our interactions? What if we could bridge the gaps that divide us, engaging in meaningful conversations that promote unity and mutual respect? Somewhere, deep down, I believe we hold the power to see past that which divides us and into our commonalities. There is far more we have in common than what we’ve been led to believe for so long. 

Because, yes, while it could definitely “be worse” – my goodness…what if we could make it better?

***Prayers of peace, comfort, strength, and love for each of these families as they navigate the trying days ahead.***

 

Weekly With Whitfield – Counter-Narrative

by 2 Comments

As we turn on the news and hear discussions surrounding violent communities, one city often takes center stage: Chicago. And, while Chicago may have its fair share of concerns to address, regurgitation of the “what about crime in Chicago?” trope overshadows the broader context and greatly minimizes the reality of the folks on the ground – those doing the hyper-local work of building communities where everyone can thrive. These narratives often reinforce deeply rooted racial stereotypes that have been with us over the course of time. Today I’d like to offer a counter-narrative for you. 

The Windy City – The Counter-Narrative

When I say “counter-narrative” I’m talking about an alternative perspective or story that may challenge prevailing narratives or beliefs. This provides a different lens through which to view a particular issue, with the aim of challenging stereotypes and potential misconceptions/biases. Counter-narratives can be such a powerful tool.

Chicago has often been stigmatized and reduced to a singular narrative of rampant violence and crime. This narrative, perpetuated by so many, contributes to negative perceptions and misconceptions about the very real communities of the city.

Today I want to offer the counter-narrative, where we acknowledge the multitude of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to address community concerns and create safer communities. There are countless community leaders, activists, social workers, educators, and residents in Chicago who are dedicated to fostering peace, reducing violence, and supporting those affected by it. From youth programming, to providing trauma-informed support, to promoting restorative justice, to advocating for systemic changes – there are dynamic, engaged, and impassioned individuals on the ground leading this community-building work.

This week I had the honor of visiting Chicago for the first time with my Bringing Fellows cohort. Upon arrival we immediately plugged into a full day and a half engaging with numerous non-profits doing deeply impactful work in some of the most disinvested communities in the city. I will do my best to highlight some of those organizations and the work they’re doing here in a bit. But, as a historian, I’d be greatly remiss if I did not delve into the historical context of how the systemic inequalities that exist in the great city of Chicago – a city that has given the world so much – actually came to be.

The Promise and Reality of the Great Migration

MPI/Getty Images

In the early 20th century, the Great Migration brought waves of Black people from the oppressive chains of the South to the promise-laden cities of the North. Prior to this movement, the South had long been the predominant home for African Americans. From the inception of the nation until the turn of the 20th century, the majority of African Americans, at least nine out of ten, resided in the South, primarily in rural areas. However, despite the newfound freedom granted by the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, various factors such as farm tenancy arrangements, poverty, high illiteracy rates, and limited opportunities in the North kept Black migration from the South at a very modest level.

From 1910 to 1970, Chicago attracted more than 500,000 of the approximately 7 million African Americans who left the South. One of the key contributors to the movement was The Chicago Defender, a prominent Black newspaper in the city. It played a pivotal role in promoting and facilitating the migration of African Americans to the North. Starting in 1916, the newspaper embarked on an extensive campaign, sharing inspiring stories of Southerners who had achieved success in the city. To assist those considering the move, the paper provided valuable resources such as lists of churches and organizations where potential immigrants could seek help with travel, housing, and employment.

Systemic Inequalities in a Promised Sanctuary

However, beneath the surface of Chicago’s attractive facade, the promise of a sanctuary was overshadowed by the stark reality of systemic inequalities. Civil Rights icon, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., turned his gaze upon the streets of Chicago and was met with a harsh, devastating truth – declaring it to be one of the most segregated places he had ever witnessed, exposing the persistent grip of racial divisions and systemic injustices that plagued African American communities.

Contrary to the hopes and expectations of those who migrated, the North proved to be mostly a continuation of the oppressive structures they sought to escape. Systemic inequalities persisted – discrimination, limited opportunities, and unequal access to resources remained obstacles to the progress and advancement of African Americans.

Structural Barriers and Resilient Prejudice

Getty Images

An insidious prejudice persisted in obstructing progress and maintaining racial divisions within Chicago. Structural barriers were erected to confine African American communities within invisible walls, denying them access to quality housing, educational opportunities, and economic advancement. Redlining, discriminatory lending practices, and predatory housing policies served as highly effective legal tools to perpetuate systemic inequalities and reinforce racial segregation.

Through redlining and discriminatory lending practices systematically denied loans and mortgages to African Americans, depriving them of the opportunity to build wealth and secure stable housing. Predatory housing policies further exploited these communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limited mobility. The impact was profound, trapping generations in a cycle of inequality and denying them the chance to fulfill their potential.

Divisions and Neglect: Echoes of Injustice

Segregation’s corrosive effects permeated every corner of Chicago, eroding the city’s unity and corroding its social fabric. Neighborhoods once vibrant with diversity succumbed to the rigid boundaries of racial segregation, breeding inequality and perpetuating deep-rooted disparities. Within this segregated landscape, African American communities bore the brunt of the consequences, enduring the harshest realities of racial injustice.

Education, a pillar of opportunity, access, and empowerment, became a battleground of inequality. Dilapidated schools, deprived of resources and attention, stood as glaring symbols of neglect and systemic discrimination. African American children were denied equal access to quality education, limiting their chances for upward mobility and perpetuating generational cycles of disadvantage. Simultaneously, healthcare services in segregated areas were woefully inadequate, reflecting the callous disregard for the well-being of African American lives. Basic medical facilities were scarce, leaving communities grappling with preventable illnesses and untreated conditions.

Amidst the sea of despair, a familiar, resilient spirit emerged. African American communities in Chicago refused to be defeated. They rallied together, united in their demand for an end to the suffocating grip of segregation and systemic racism. 

Bob Fitch photography archive, © Stanford University Libraries

Organizations like the Chicago Freedom Movement, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and countless grassroots activists played a vital role in challenging the status quo. They paved the way for progress, tirelessly advocating for equality, justice, and the dismantling of oppressive structures. Their footsteps marked a path towards a more inclusive and just society, leaving a powerful legacy of local community power and hope.

The Legacy of Power and Hope 

African Americans’ struggle against systemic inequalities in Chicago serves as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the human will. It reminds us that progress isn’t always rolled out on a linear path, that the journey towards justice is often riddled with countless obstacles. However, it also demonstrates the power of community and the unwavering belief that together, united in purpose, we can dismantle the barriers that hinder progress.

The legacy of the Great Migration and the resilience of those who fought for justice fuel our determination to create a future where equality and justice are not mere dreams, but a lived reality for all. And like those who paved the way during the Great Migration, today, there are so many powerful organizing efforts taking place in these communities. While there are so many doing absolutely phenomenal work in their communities, here are a few we visited during our time in Chicago.

Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP)

In the heart of Chicago’s southwest neighborhoods, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) stands as a champion of community empowerment. They work tirelessly alongside residents, amplifying their voices and fighting for social and economic justice – they understand the power of collective action and partners with the community, rather than playing the role of a savior.

One of SWOP’s primary battles is housing insecurity. They confront gentrification and strive to ensure that every resident has access to safe and affordable homes. By transforming dilapidated buildings into beacons of hope, they enable families to thrive and reclaim their communities.

Education is another area where SWOP has made a significant impact. They stand alongside parents and students, demanding better resources and equitable opportunities. Through their unwavering commitment, they transform schools into empowering environments where the potential of every child is nurtured and futures are reshaped.

SWOP also fights for equitable healthcare access, mobilizing communities to dismantle barriers that hinder essential medical services. Their efforts have chipped away at healthcare inequity, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their zip code or economic status, can receive the care they deserve. The impact of SWOP reaches deep into the fabric of the community, instilling power, unity, and resilience. They inspire collective action and a model that change comes from unwavering determination and belief in the power of the people. 

Imagine Englewood if

In the heart of Englewood, Imagine Englewood If stands as a powerful force for change. As the longest-serving nonprofit in Englewood, it is committed to fostering secure and empowering environments for the youth in the Greater Englewood community. By imparting valuable knowledge on positive communication, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and fostering environmental awareness, IEi plays a vital role in strengthening the bonds within the Greater Englewood community. Through IEi, disinvested spaces are transformed into vibrant centers of growth and community building, adorned with murals that tell stories of strength and unity.

Imagine Englewood If defies limitations and nurtures the creative spirit within young people. Their impact pulses through the community, empowering individuals to rewrite their narratives and shape their neighborhoods. By fostering belonging and purpose, they instill the belief that dreams are valid and contributions are invaluable.

As architects of transformation, Imagine Englewood If builds bridges where others see walls, unlocking the potential within each individual. They paint a vivid picture of a future where empowerment replaces disinvestment, creativity silences violence, and every young person can thrive. Through their unwavering dedication, they pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where hope guides us towards a world where dreams are realized.

Safer Foundation

Many of us have loved ones or close friends who’ve been incarcerated at some point in their lives. And we have seen the, oftentimes, irremovable obstacles that stand in the way of formerly incarcerated individuals. This is where the Safer Foundation steps in.

They serve as a beacon of hope, advocating for second chances and transformation in a world that can be quick to condemn those with criminal records. At Safer, they recognize the worth of every individual, believing that behind every label and mistake lies someone deserving of redemption and a fresh start. With unwavering dedication, they provide comprehensive services that extend beyond rehabilitation, including employment training, education, and vital support. They’ve even built a full-scale home in an old gym where these individuals can practice their skills in a practical way. There lies an inherent belief in the power of education to break chains of prejudice and open doors of opportunity to equip individuals with the skills and resources needed to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

They work tirelessly to break the cycle of incarceration, dismantling barriers and fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding. With Safer, individuals are able to rewrite their narratives, rise above their past, and embrace limitless possibilities for their future. Lives are transformed, identities reclaimed, and communities are enriched as individuals begin to envision a brighter future – a future in which they belong. 

Through the work of the Safer Foundation we’re reminded of the importance of empathy, understanding, and forgiveness, challenging the notion that mistakes define individuals, and, instead, celebrating their resilience and potential. In a world where judgment often overshadows compassion, the Safer Foundation rises above the noise, guiding individuals towards redemption and renewal and reminding us of the transformative power of second chances in building a vibrant society. 

BUILD Chicago

BUILD (Broader Urban Involvement & Leadership Development) has been transforming the lives of young people in Chicago since 1969. Focusing on gang intervention, violence prevention, and youth development, the organization provides opportunities and inspires hope for youth facing systemic obstacles. Through mentoring, arts, athletics, college and career preparation, technology, and mental health programs, BUILD serves over 6,500 youth and families each year.

In response to the urgent need to address violence, BUILD launched the BUILDing Healthy Futures initiative in 2012. This initiative promotes healthy lifestyles through knowledge, nutrition, physical activity, and social-emotional learning. As violence rates increased in Chicago, BUILD adjusted its efforts to target areas with the greatest needs, such as Austin, Humboldt Park, and the West and South Sides. Since 2016, the organization has expanded its impact by establishing a Clinical Health & Wellness department and introducing Enrichment programs focusing on art, technology, and leadership training.

BUILD places a strong emphasis on building relationships with youth, fostering trust, and providing advocacy, support systems, and high expectations. They strive to ensure that every young person in every neighborhood has the opportunity for success. And they’ve achieved tangible results, with regular program participants showing decreases in negative behaviors, increases in prosocial behaviors, social mobility, post-secondary success, and civic activism/engagement.

They provide academic support and open doors to college and career opportunities for at-risk youth, including teen mothers and formerly incarcerated youth. Additionally, Project BUILD helps incarcerated teens reclaim their lives by introducing innovative practices to learn from past mistakes and develop positive life skills. They also engage neighborhood adults through the Community Resources Development program, collaborate with social service providers, and offer alternatives to incarceration for troubled youth.

Another powerful component to BUILD is The Iris, their campus farm, which plays a vital role in bringing fresh food, job experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities to the broader community. At The Iris, fresh and locally grown produce is cultivated, harvested, and shared with the surrounding community. By providing access to nutritious food, The Iris contributes to combating food insecurity and promoting healthier lifestyles for the community. 

Furthermore, the farm serves as a space for educational programs and workshops, allowing individuals of all ages to engage in experiential learning and gain a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. To date, BUILD collaborates with over 100 organizations, demonstrating a commitment to a true community partnership. 

Firehouse Community Arts Center

The Firehouse Community Arts Center, located across disinvested neighborhoods of Chicago, serves as a sanctuary of creativity and healing. For over a decade, they have provided a safe haven for young people in Chicago – its primary focus on preventing and interrupting youth and young adults caught in violence through a range of events and art programs. The center’s origins go back to a Saturday night Hip-Hop worship service in 2003, organized by Pastor Phil Jackson and attended by youth and young adults from North Lawndale and beyond. The overwhelming response led to the incorporation of the Firehouse Community Art Center as a 501(c)(3) non profit in 2006, and the subsequent purchase of a 100-year-old Chicago Firehouse in North Lawndale in 2007.

Today, the Firehouse Community Arts Center offers year-round, multi-disciplinary cultural arts programming, mentorship, leadership development, and workforce training. Its mission is centered around preventing and interrupting violence by providing young people with meaningful opportunities to engage in the arts. The center serves as a hub for artistic expression and creativity, empowering the youth and young adults of North Lawndale and the wider community. Through these various forms of expression, individuals find solace and strength, realizing that they are so much more than what they may have been led to believe.

The Firehouse Community Arts Center stands as a testament to the spirit of a community that refuses to be forgotten. It embodies the transformative power of art, connecting hearts and illuminating the human experience. In this reclaimed fire station, hope blossoms, wounds heal, and communities are woven together through shared experiences. 

IMAN (Inner-City Muslim Action Network)

Since its inception in 1997, IMAN has served as a powerful force for change on Chicago’s South Side. Rooted in the lived experiences of marginalized communities, IMAN’s passionate visionaries have nurtured the organization into a beacon of hope and transformation. 

IMAN’s approach defies conventional boundaries, recognizing that true change requires addressing the interconnected web of systemic inequities. They are a prime example of “buying the block” to provide services to the people. (I encourage you to read this more broad outline of how they’re changing the game – IMAN’s Principles of Change)

IMAN’s story celebrates the indomitable human spirit and the resilience of communities of color. They are catalysts for transformation, defying limitations and reshaping narratives. Their legacy will forever resonate as a testament to unity, resilience, and unwavering hope, fostering a society where every voice is heard, every life is valued, and justice radiates in every corner.

Embrace the Counter-Narrative

Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. I understand that stepping back and considering something different than what you may have believed or felt can be a hard thing to do. But I encourage you to. As we embrace the counter-narrative, we recognize that violence and crime do not define the entirety of Chicago or its residents. We acknowledge the agency and resilience of those who are actively engaged in creating positive change and foster a more nuanced and understanding of the city’s complex realities. 

I love the people of Chicago and thank them so much for their willingness to share the dope ways in which they are making a difference in their communities. I learned so much. Let’s commit to challenge our preconceived notions. And let’s celebrate the remarkable work being done by local community organizers in some of the most disinvested areas in our country. As one of these champions stated, “we don’t get to clock out – this is what we do 24/7.” That’s commitment. That is love. That is community. 

So the next time you hear someone say “well what are they doing about crime in Chicago” or some other racist trope, I challenge you to step up. You can show them this blog. You can point them to one of these fabulous organizations where they can ask the folks doing the work directly. And, while they’re at it – since they’re so concerned – they can donate to their causes. Let’s transcend stereotypes, embrace the counter-narrative, and support the transformative efforts of so many amazing nonprofits, such as these, in their mission to build a more peaceful and prosperous society for all.

Weekly With Whitfield – Bridges

by 6 Comments

In May of 2022 I was selected as one of forty people across the U.S. (Chicago, Dallas, and Pittsburgh) to join Independent Sector’s inaugural 2022 Bridging Fellows cohort. This two year program, through a combination of virtual and in-person convenings allows us to engage, learn, amplify, and share adaptive skills to help our communities bridge across various divides.

Serendipity. To be in such a space, learning from so many fabulous people, whom I may have never met if not for the storms I’ve encountered over the last couple years. An opportunity to engage in the deep and powerful work of building bridges to create stronger communities.

And, as fate would have it, this week would find us in the City of Steel, Pittsburgh, PA – also prominently known as the City of Bridges.

A Beautiful Landscape

The birds-eye-view flying into the city was pretty amazing. But it was when I hit the ground that it hit me on a whole other level. Pittsburgh is so picturesque.

From the iconic hills that rise up from the banks of the Allegheny River and stretch out into the distance, covered in a patchwork of green and brown. To the Monongahela River, with its deep shades of green, reflecting the foliage that lines its banks. To the Ohio River, with Its deep, dark blue hues, reflecting the sky above and the depths below, carrying barges and cargo ships up and down its length. These three rivers create a landscape that is both beautiful, powerful, and captivating. 

As the city is surrounded by these majestic waters, bridges are critical. Pittsburgh has a network of over 440 bridges – more bridges than any other city in the world, including Venice, Italy. As you drive into the city, the first thing that strikes you is the sheer number of bridges that dot the skyline. Some are massive steel structures that stretch across entire river valleys, while others are small pedestrian bridges that connect neighborhoods and parks. Each with their own unique beauty, character, and purpose.

These bridges are not just a testament to the city’s historic, industrial past, but they also serve as an important part of the city’s transportation infrastructure and add to the overall beauty of the city. Bridges everywhere. A beautiful necessity. But also a symbol of the task before us in our own communities – to be bridge builders.

Great Divides

Over the course of the last several years in the United States, the gulf between us has grown wider and wider. We’ve become that pesky set of siblings that fight just to fight. We will fight over just about anything. 

For many, all hope is lost. But not for me. Although we may have some deep wounds to heal – and we may need to go to time-out for a few minutes – I have faith in us. This is not the first time we’ve been at odds with each other. And this will not be the last time, I assure you. These times provide us with an opportunity to help  form a more perfect union. Our continued capacity to bridge the divides that would keep us worlds apart helps us move forward.

Bridges and Bridging Work

As we traversed the city for this convening I couldn’t help but reflect on the likeness of the physical bridge and the bridging work before us. Bridges are physical structures that connect people and places that may otherwise be divided by impassable barriers. Similarly, in this work we seek to bridge the gap between people and their causes, connecting those who might otherwise be separated by barriers of ignorance, indifference, or fear.

At the heart of this bridging, is the idea that we are all connected. We might come from different backgrounds, have different lived experiences, and be motivated by different concerns, but at our core, we share a basic, common humanity. We all want to live in a just and compassionate world. And these bridges can help us navigate the divides that separate us. Connecting us and  moving us towards our vision of a better future.

Building a Solid Foundation 

A bridge is nothing without a strong, solid foundation. The same goes for the bridging work in our communities. This foundation is built on knowledge, research, and an understanding of the issues and the impact they have on communities. Without taking the time to delve into those key aspects, our efforts are bound to collapse, leaving those who rely on our work stranded and vulnerable. 

In Pittsburgh we had the opportunity to visit several organizations committed to bridging in their communities. Each organization had built a firm foundation in the heart of the city geared towards service, engagement, and standing in the gap for some of the most vulnerable populations. Hearing their journey of how they laid that foundation in the face of some pretty challenging obstacles was inspiring.

Our capacity to build strong relationships in the communities we serve is key. Knowing the wide range of humanity that exists in our space at a deep and meaningful level provides focus as we navigate the challenges that come with bringing communities. Strong relational capacity leads to high levels of trust which, in turn, affords us the ability to move faster than we could otherwise.

Additionally, our sense of purpose is critical to setting out on firm footing. Having a strong, rooted foundation allows us to serve as a determined presence in our communities to leverage the power that lies within to create better futures for our people. 

Design and Construction 

A bridge is so much more than its foundation, though. It requires careful, intentional  design, engineering, and construction. Bridging work in communities is no different. We must put forth the required creativity, strategy, and collaboration to build bridges that are strong, resilient, nurturing, and effective. Additionally, innovation and vision are critical to creating solutions that can address the complex and interconnected issues facing our world.

One of the highlights of our time was our visit to 1Hood Media. As we walked off the bus to enter their facility, the cameras were rolling. A team of individuals greeted us with cameras, and continued as we entered the building, welcomed by the dope beats of old school hip-hop. At some point, the footage captured will undoubtedly be part of a piece for them telling their story. They’ve become masters of creative storytelling to highlight issues in their community, educating the populace, and bringing people in to solve complex issues plaguing their community.

1Hood has a distinct vision for amplifying and authorizing youth voices. The organization’s leaders embrace the historic role that youth have played in bridge builders across our nation over time. Instead of being an organization of “as the adults, we’re here to tell you how it’s done”, they commit to holding space for young people to speak up, engage, and activate in their communities where they see a need. 

Additionally, they’re embrace of art and creativity have ushered opportunities for artists to engage in the work of bridge building through their medium of expression. Through thoughtful design, creativity, strategy, and collaboration towards creating a strong bridge to the communities they serve across the city.

Connection

At its core, a bridge is a structure that connects two places that would otherwise be separate. They span rivers, valleys, and other obstacles, providing a safe and efficient way for people to travel between them. It brings people together, creating opportunities for dialogue, understanding, collaboration, and cooperation. 

Such is the work of bridging in our communities. We must connect people from different backgrounds, communities, and causes, to create a space for them to learn from one another, share their lived experiences, and build towards brighter futures.

We had the opportunity to do a guided bus tour through a few of the roughly 90 neighborhoods that comprise Pittsburgh. Mr. Malik was our phenomenal guide – an absolute wealth of knowledge surrounding, most anything, Pittsburgh. But this tour was largely focused on affordable housing and sustainability in a few communities. 

Listening to him speak of the collaboration and connectivity needed to pull off some of these aspirational housing proposals was mind boggling and inspirational. He spoke to the connections between the private sector, public sector, developers, philanthropy, etc. to make their collective vision come to life.  And, while they all tend to move at very different speeds, they’re all critical to creating brighter outcomes for people in our communities. Sure many of these entities may have some competing priorities, but the work of bridging these priorities is paramount towards creating communities where we can all thrive.

Connection doesn’t always mean we will immediately agree on whatever the problem is that we seek to solve, or how to solve it. But our willingness to understand, engage in dialogue, and collaborate can create strong connections that allow us to see past that which separates us and towards that which we can envision for our collective future.

Upkeep

Bridges require ongoing maintenance and repair to keep them strong and functional. Neglect can and, eventually, will lead to disaster. The work we do in our communities is no different. Today we find our societal bridges in need of massive repair. Fear-mongering, deception, othering, ignorance, and hate have chipped away at our social fabric, eroding trust in our fellow man.

As we go about the challenging work of repairing these fractures it’s imperative that we operate with compassion and empathy. As hard as it may be to listen to those who may believe differently than us, please take time to lend a kind ear. Chances are, if we really listen, we can find that common ground and begin to solder these broken pieces of our communities.

And it won’t be easy. There’s no sense in pretending it will be. It will be hard work. As we are challenged with things that may run counter to that which we thought we knew there’s a tendency to get defensive. It’s human nature. But I encourage you to lean into vulnerability and push back on those defensive feelings. 

Building bridges is just the first step. Building communities where all can thrive requires ongoing commitment, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure that the bridges we construct remain strong and effective over time.

Be the Bridge

The symbol of the bridge reminds us that we are all connected, and that the work of building great, thriving communities is about constructing bridges that can span divides, connect people, and create opportunities for a better future. It requires a solid foundation, careful design and construction, and ongoing care and repair. But if we dare erect these bridges, if we can connect people and causes at the intersection of various issues, then we can create a world that is better for us all.

I encourage you to get out there and look for opportunities to build bridges in your communities. The work is plenty and endless. And there will be new concerns that arise as we turn the pages of tomorrow. But it’s necessary and so worth it. 

Go Build!

Weekly With Whitfield – Sankofa

by 4 Comments

This week I chose to kick off Black History by writing about the contributions of Black male educators on student achievement. Specifically, I wrote about two of the men who helped shape the course of my life in major ways; Richard Bacon and James Johnson. Throughout the piece, and the days since, the word, sankofa, has been ringing in my head. 

The term “Sankofa” is comes from the Akan language spoken by the people of Ghana, located in West Africa. It literally means “go back and get it”, a symbol of the importance of learning from the past in order to move forward. In African culture, Sankofa is a reminder that the wisdom and experiences of our ancestors are valuable and should be remembered, respected, and learned from. 

Sankofa is represented by a bird with its head turned backwards and an egg in its beak. The bird is flying forward but with its head facing backwards, representing the idea that one must look back in order to move forward. The egg in the bird’s beak symbolizes the importance of preserving the knowledge and wisdom of the past for future generations. 

Reflection

As I reflect on my journey to become an educator, I’m forever grateful for those who came before me. Those who dared to peak back into a very tumultuous past to carry forward the lessons and legacies of those who came before them. Truly, we ride on the shoulders of giants, both in the past and present. 

As of late, there’s been much talk about the teaching of our nation’s history. Those who choose “go back and get it” meet heavy opposition. Some have attacked teaching history through the lens of truth, “CRT”. Others have claimed that those who dare mention the ills of our history, and the systemic realities that persist due to these ills, as being “unpatriotic” or instilling “hate for our country”. 

These accusations couldn’t be further from the truth. Actually, quite the contrary. That fact people who’ve been historically excluded from the American experiment continue to believe in the ideals of our nation speaks loudly to their unyielding patriotism. We simply leverage our demands of liberty, justice, and equality for all by embracing sankofa, going back to get it, pressing our great nation to live out what it promised on paper. 

Not just for Black people. Not just for White people. But for ALL PEOPLE!

Going Back To Get It

We must remember that what we face is not new. We should always anticipate, and prepare for, backlash in the wake of progress. As James Baldwin said:

…you must understand that in the attempt to correct so many generations of bad faith and cruelty, when it is operating not only in the classroom but in society, you will meet the most fantastic, the most brutal, and the most determined resistance. There is no point in pretending that this won’t happen.

These efforts to write a revisionist history of our nation have been with us. 

United Daughters of The Confederacy

After the South’s massive defeat in the Civil War, a massive resistance swelled. The United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) was established in 1894. In the decades following the war, the UDC played a significant role in shaping the nation’s cultural and historical memory of the Confederacy and the Civil War. 

One of the primary ways the UDC sought to achieve their goals was by forming textbook committees. These committees were established to review and influence the content of textbooks used in American schools, with the goal of reframing the Civil War as a “noble cause” and portraying the Confederacy and its leaders in a more positive light. Their textbook committees were highly successful in achieving their goals. 

By portraying the Confederacy as a noble cause and its leaders as heroic, they helped to perpetuate the myth of the “Lost Cause” and minimized the central role of slavery in causing the war. Instead, they leaned on “states rights”. This revisionist history helped to justify segregation and the continued oppression of African Americans in the South, and served as a rallying point for those who sought to maintain the status quo.

But as we practice sankofa we can decipher this coded language. In actuality, it was “states rights to own humans and treat them like animals”. 

Brown v. Board of Education

In the wake of the landmark 1954 U.S. Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education ruling, White families from inner cities fled to suburban areas. While not exclusively the case, often it was in response to the racial integration of schools that would follow. The ruling declared that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, prompting the desegregation of schools across the country. However, the implementation of desegregation was found resistance from many White families who feared the integration of Black students into their schools.

The impact of White flight on Black teachers and principals was profound. Many Black educators were passed over for promotions, demoted, or even fired, simply because of their race. This created a vicious cycle, as the loss of Black teachers and principals further eroded the quality of education in urban schools, causing even more white families to leave.

White flights impact on Black educators was further compounded by the systemic racism and discrimination they faced in their daily lives. For example, many black teachers were paid less than their white counterparts (even though many were more qualified). Additionally, they were given fewer resources to work with, making it more difficult to provide quality education to their students.

The loss of Black educators, and the hostile work environments they endured, perpetuated the systemic racism and discrimination that existed in education and in society as a whole. We understand that we didn’t just arrive at this underrepresentation of Black educators by accident – it’s historical. And only when we understand, acknowledge, and address these deep systemic roots can we begin to build a robust Black educator pipeline.

Sankofa

We have come so far as a people in the United States. We, Americans, have so much to be grateful for and proud of. But we must always remember to “go back and get it”. This is how we create a more perfect, just, and inclusive nation for us all. We are a work in progress, and that’s ok. Our ability to acknowledge, embrace, flex, and grow has afforded us opportunities to overcome some very dark days.

And we must be prepare for the dark days that lay ahead. As for every moment of progress in our country, there has always been backlash. My hope for us is that we continue to lean on the wisdom and experiences of our ancestors. They are valuable and afford us a blueprint to remember, respect, and learn from.