Let's Talk Beauty & Colorism!: Video and lesson included.

Self-care. What is it? For some, it means slowing down and being more purposeful. For others, it might be a cup of tea and a hot bath. Or, it could simply mean being kinder to yourself, practicing self-love and acceptance.

That is why I want to share more messages with you and your students. Beginning with the one below. We all, like Genesis, have moments where we don't feel good enough. Unloveable even. WI want us to claim our space of self-acceptance. Own who we are. Define ourselves for ourselves.

The pandemic has slowed school visits as teachers scramble to pivot. Teachers, I see you. In my videos, I'll be offering short talking points about my books to share with your students. The first one is already posted to my YouTube channel (authoraliciadwilliams). Be sure to like and subscribe to stay updated.

https://youtu.be/z6YxunAUMVc

Tips for discussion: These conversations take bravery and skill. They may make you or some students uncomfortable. Be thoughtful and purposeful. Be open to listening and learning from different perspectives. And allow no judgement. Biases and stereotypes might arise. Lean into it and allow students to explore why.

Genesis Begins Again -- Reflection: Art Component

After you have watched the video, hopefully the classroom discussion was deep, electrifying, and engaging as you all explored themes of beauty and self-acceptance.

Have students create an image of themselves as is vs. how others wish them to be (hand draw, computer, collage, cartoon, whatever they choose). On one side of the portrait, students can add comments or micro-aggressions they often hear that makes them question their value. To counter the negative, on the other side, have students write positive love words, phrases, and quotes.

(I do not own the copyright to this image.)

And always remind them: They are good enough. And will always be!

Love,

Alicia D.