Cultural resources by month
Teaching diverse and culturally-responsive perspectives
This page aims to provide resources for learning and discussion written by and/or centering the perspectives of people from within the cultures that celebrate key holidays each month. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all holidays celebrated around the world; rather it focuses on holidays that are important to our students’ and tutors’ communities. Come back each month for updates and ideas for rich and thoughtful discussion.
Poverty in America Awareness Month
January
Poverty Awareness Month is dedicated to calling attention to the growth of poverty in America. The official poverty rate nationally in 2020 was 11.4%, up from 10.5% in 2019. This is the first increase in poverty after five consecutive annual declines. 25% of working families in Wisconsin are currently living under 200% of the poverty line. Additionally, a 2018 study found that 24% of Outagamie County households were struggling to afford basic necessities like housing, child care, food, transportation, and internet access.
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Heartland Alliance presents an overview of Poverty Awareness Month and describes how poverty intersects with key wellbeing factors, such as education, opportunity, health, and more: click here
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The Census Bureau provides up-to-date national poverty statistics: click here
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United Way Wisconsin’s ALICE report discusses the 34% of residents who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed – People who work hard and earn above the federal poverty level, but do not earn enough to afford a basic household budget: click here
If you are struggling and need help, you can contact United Way 211 for free, confidential services 24/7.
Black History Month
February
Okalani Dawkins is a passionate student excited to create a better world through her passion for Civil Rights. In her TEDtalk, she highlights the importance of African Americans in America’s history. She also gives examples of how educators around the country help us know and celebrate the many contributions made by African Americans throughout history
Many anti-literacy laws were created before and after the American Civil War in slave states as a way to prevent enslaved people who could read and write from forging the documents required to escape to a free state. African Americans did not remain silent during the years of slavery and anti-literacy. They didn’t give up their identities as distinct individuals or as African Americans. Rather, they spoke their minds, passions, and emotions through songs, stories, and the written word. Read this article to learn more about how literacy became a powerful weapon in the fight to end slavery
In this recording of an event hosted by the Appleton Public Library, Dr. Renee Gralewicz discusses the history of government-designed racial wealth disparities, reparations and what other communities like Evanston, IL and countries like Germany are doing to make amends, as well as what is happening right here in Wisconsin. Click here
Disability Awareness Month and Women's History Month
March
Disability Awareness Month
On February 26, 1987 Disability Awareness Month was proclaimed, calling for all people to help persons with disabilities to lead productive and fulfilling lives, and to remove barriers in doing so.
In recognition of this month, each year StoryCorps dedicate a collection of stories of these individuals, and their loved ones who offer their support and admiration. Watch the videos
Women's History Month
During this month, we want to highlight women’s contributions to education, share women’s literacy rates, and showcase important women from history who have influenced our present and future, especially in the area of education.
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Our World in Data is a scientific online publication that focuses on large global problems such as poverty, disease, hunger, climate change, war, existential risks, and inequality. Check their interactive world map that displays country-specific adult female literacy rates as of 2021.
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Meet 10 women who have changed — and continue to change — one of the most important disciplines in our country.These women helped bring education to historically disenfranchised groups by attaining powerful positions and pushing forward, often against resistance.
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Currently, less than 10% of American history curriculum focuses on women. And, of that 10%, 60% highlights American women as the helpmate and domestic partner. What would happen if we included more and more diverse stories of American women in American history–and young girls begin to see themselves in the curriculum they study? Watch a TedTalk from an expert in American women’s history and politics, Dr. Emily Krichbaum talking about this topic!
Cultural Education Videos
