In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding racism and activism, kindergarten teacher Mia Thompson from Brooklyn felt a pressing need to communicate with her students during the school closures caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Unable to engage with her diverse classroom in person, she created a video to address these crucial topics, which quickly gained widespread attention online.
Known on social platforms as the “Rainbow Teacher,” Thompson begins her video by emphasizing that while COVID-19 is one pandemic, society is also grappling with another pervasive illness: racism. “Racism is everywhere, and it’s our responsibility to combat it,” she asserts. Drawing on historical figures like Harriet Tubman and Nelson Mandela, she highlights the long-standing struggle against racism, which has persisted for centuries. Thompson provides actionable steps for her viewers, urging them to take a stand.
Her use of inclusive language fosters a sense of shared responsibility. She underscores the importance of individual voices in the fight against racism, stating, “Each of you has a choice to say, ‘This is wrong.’” By taking a stand, we can profoundly affect the lives of many, especially those who are marginalized. “Many Black individuals truly need your support and voice,” she adds.
Thompson outlines various ways young viewers can advocate against racism—such as writing letters, engaging in discussions, and asking questions to learn more about how they can help. In her video, she also reads from the book Let’s Talk About Race by Julius Lester, aiming to make the subject approachable for children.
Sadly, many white parents often shy away from discussing race with their children, believing they are too young for such conversations. They fear that addressing these issues might harm their kids. This hesitation, rooted in their own discomfort and lack of racial understanding, leads them to adopt a “colorblind” approach, instead promoting vague notions of kindness and inclusivity. Some mistakenly believe that having one Black friend absolves them from the need to educate themselves about race.
As a white parent raising four Black children, I’ve encountered many justifications from other white parents regarding their reluctance to discuss race. My family’s experience is different; my kids have grown up knowing they are Black and that their identity is beautiful and significant. We engage in discussions about race regularly, addressing the realities they face, such as the guidelines that differ from their white peers, including not putting their hands in their pockets in stores.
Thompson emphasizes to Scary Mommy that non-Black families must embrace discomfort when having these discussions with their children. Children are equipped to handle these conversations early on, and ignoring racism only allows it to persist. Naming and confronting these issues is essential for meaningful change.
She encourages parents to initiate conversations about racism daily, noting that for Black families, it’s an unavoidable aspect of life. Thompson suggests questions parents can ask their children to spur dialogue, such as: What can we do today to use our voice? What book can we read that helps us learn more? How can we better support Black individuals in our lives?
Thompson advocates for ongoing discussions about race, providing a strong foundation for parents to start these important conversations with their children. There are numerous resources available, including books, podcasts, and articles, making it easier than ever for families to educate themselves. Some of her recommended reads include I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes and The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander.
In conclusion, Thompson ends her video on a hopeful note, stating, “The only way for things to improve is to work together. So, my friends, will you join me?” As Maya Angelou famously said, “When you know better, you do better.”
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Summary: Kindergarten teacher Mia Thompson creates a viral video addressing racism and activism, urging parents to engage their children in discussions about race. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and fighting against racism from an early age, providing resources and actionable steps for families to take.