 |
|
|
In the aftermath of the tragic shooting rampage at Virginia Tech, extremists and white supremacists have focused on the killer’s immigrant status and South Korean ethnicity in an attempt to blame Asian Americans, immigrants and others for the deaths. While such efforts to sow hatred have largely failed in the general society, isolated incidents of harassment have prompted concerns over a potential backlash against Asians and others.
On April 19, 2007, an Asian-American student at Auburn University in Alabama was attacked in what has been reported as a hate crime—allegedly motivated by the VT shootings. This has given reason for the fear felt by many in the Korean and larger Asian-American community: by virtue of a shared ethnic and racial background, an entire group of people may be blamed and suffer for the actions of a single individual, a phenomenon witnessed after the 9/11 attacks, when Muslim Americans, Sikhs and others were unfairly harassed, scapegoated and blamed for the attacks.
Such incidents give rise to many questions for parents and educators. How can we respond to questions raised by our children in the aftermath of hate and violence? How do we create classrooms, schools and homes that reject stereotypical attitudes and embrace our country’s rich ethnic, racial and religious diversity? ADL offers resources and materials to assist in responding to these concerns.
Classroom Lessons
Preschool:
Elementary School:
Middle School:
High School:
More Resources for Educators
Resources for Families
Additional Programs and Resources
What Did You Just Say? Challenging Biased Language
ADL’s A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute, a leading provider of anti-bias education and diversity training programs and resources, seeks to help people recognize bias and the harm it inflicts on individuals and society; explore the value of diversity; improve intergroup relations; and combat racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of prejudice and bigotry. For training sessions related to these issues, contact a regional office near you to receive information about programs available in your area. |
|
|
|
|
