"Being a black educator who serves students who speak multiple languages gives way to many blessings. Not only am I able to share cultural experiences, but I can also empathize with those in the minority. Children of color need more racially and culturally diverse educators in our classrooms. In fact, all students need a greater representation of diversity in education to embody the power of change through education and social justice. I am proud to be a part of that change."

"When I came to South Carolina, I was shocked to find out that in my county...for at least three years, I was the only Black teacher in our department, and I couldn't figure out why...

"I found an article written by an entity out of California...where they have said through their empirical research that oftentimes Black teachers are not offered the opportunity to teach English as a second language or as a foreign language because the Black educators are deemed unqualified to teach English.

"As we are into Black History Month, one thing as a Black woman that I want to be sure that I do is support good educators, but also shine light on the lack of diversity in one of the departments that should be the most diverse out of any other department across our curriculums."

"I have been in the field of multilingual education for eight years. I have worked in our field as an ESOL Teacher, an ESOL Lead Teacher, and currently an ML Coach. I love providing teachers and students with strategies and support that will help them be successful. I do not take for granted the sacrifices made by my ancestors for me to be in a position to learn, go to college, and teach. I reflect on the work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and educators such as Lucy Craft Laney and Mary McLeod Bethune. 

"I enjoy celebrating and learning about the cultures, languages and traditions of our diverse population of multilingual learners. I believe that everyone has a story. I hope that by sharing stories about my own heritage will help our multilingual learners to share their own. Our stories also include challenges. Sharing my challenges will help students to see that they can overcome theirs as well. 

"As an African-American woman, I am honored to be a part of Multilingual Education.  There are not many women of color represented in this role and educational research shows that having diversity is best for promoting a positive community of learners.  As a minority, I can identify and empathize with Multilingual Learners as they work to achieve educational success.

"This gives me a great sense of purpose as I help Multilingual Learners successfully build their confidence as they become proficient in the English language."

“Students who feel that they belong have more positive attitudes about school, academic engagement and will invest more of themselves in the learning process." (Karen F. Osterman)

"A lack of connection is a barrier to learning. Each day, I strive to provide a sense of belonging within my designated educational space. As an equity advocate, I constantly reflect on ways to create positive feelings when interacting with multilingual students and their families. Sometimes, it's something as simple as a greeting in the morning or a subtle smile as they transition from one class to the next. Other times, it's asking them if they need any help from me or complimenting their effort during a lesson. My intention is for them to feel heard, seen, and appreciated. Over time, the way they feel on the inside starts to radiate on the outside; their confidence leads to competence. I hope these small interactions will have a positive impact and make their journey through life a little easier."

"Since I was young, I've always been attracted to culture; my own and other people's. I would read National Geographic like it was Right On magazine (No one under 35 will know what I'm talking about). I always wanted to know more about people and the things that tied us together.  I especially wanted to know what essential things were at the heart of all cultures.

"The other part of my story is that one day my daddy cried as he told me how he had to stop going to school after the sixth grade. He had to help take care of his family. My father's hurt motivated me. I wanted to give every child I came across a chance to learn and not just learn...think. I don't want them to just think, but think critically about everything.