Diversity Day

There are dates or events that we call flash bulb memories. We remember every detail about that day because it had a lasting impact on our lives. Today I experienced a day such as this. I spent the day at Central State University, an HBCU, for what I titled Diversity Day. This diversity day was much different than the one you might be thinking of, The Office that is. No we didn’t wear cards on our head and explore stereotypes to discover what race we belonged to. Instead I was submerged into a group of multicultural educators who genuinely cared for the future of urban children.
Coming into college I had a good idea of what I would like to do with my life, and it involved sports. I further explored my passions and gifts that the Lord blessed me with, and I began to understand that the way of teaching and coaching was for me. So I thought that I had it figured out, but a passion that was deep within me, sparked by choir tours throughout my years at porter, began to call for my service in an urban environment. I’m still not sure completely how this will unfold but I know that God will use me for His Will.
Today was the beginning of that journey to follow Him in my career. The Urban Education Conference at Central State University opened my eyes to a desperate situation that will impact the future of our country. I learned how I could use my love of rap to reach children. I learned strategies to motivate kids that seem to have nothing to live for. I learned to break down walls that stand between me, a white middle class teacher, and a class of diverse low income students. The lessons learned and the passion it has sparked in my heart; I hope I never forget.
The day ended with a celebration of diversity between Central State University and Cedarville University. Students and faculty joined together singing praises to our Lord. One speaker mentioned something, which helped put the accomplishments of MLK into perspective for me, and will help me to appreciate his achievements this coming Monday. “…It is not too long ago that some of us would not be welcome into this building, other than to clean it... Thankfully today we can stand together under the banner, “children of God”, and praise Him who created all men equally.”

Pray for me as the Lord equips me these next few years to serve him through urban education.