Black History Month

February is 'Black History Month.' On Monday we contributed our ideas during our 'Sharing Circle' about 'Black History Month' (what we knew about it already, thought we knew, questions we had, etc.). Then we looked up the history and meaning of 'Black History Month' on the internet to learn more about it's origins, countries that celebrate it and which months they celebrate it, etc. Then, we watched a video of some African-American students explaining what 'Black History Month' is, and what it means to them, in their own words. On Monday, and again today, we shared the story of 'Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt' which is about a young slave girl who made a quilt that was really a map, in order to escape from slavery into Canada, via the 'Underground Railroad.' Many slaves after her, used her quilt in order to reach the same freedom in Canada.' Throughout our discussions and book talk this week, we have been focussed on identifying the 'Big Ideas' behind 'Black History Month.' The students understand the importance of remembering the extreme efforts and sacrifices that were made in order to fight for freedom and uphold human rights and freedoms. I was amazed at their insights and how easily they made connections between past and present and the 'Golden Rule.'