EdCast Threads of Diversity Rev. Jesse Jackson on diversity and the role educators can play in fighting inequality Posted February 23, 2017 By Tyler Tarnowicz and Matt Weber In an attempt to reflect on the current political and social climate in the United States, Reverend Jackson guided his audience through the last four centuries of plight for historically marginalized communities the United States, citing periods from Native American genocide and the enslavement of African-Americans to Japanese internment and Jewish persecution. In tracking this history, Jackson recognized the significance of the very institution at which he was speaking, going as far to shine light on Harvard’s role in such events, stating “we [African-Americans] are not at the bottom of Harvard, but at its foundation.”In identifying injustices and the institutions that propagated them throughout history, Jackson reminded his audience that these were not simply conditions of a distant past, rather circumstances that provide the backdrop of a world in which we see ourselves today.In light of this current climate, Jackson provided three ways for Americans to respond: First, they can adjust to the situation, choosing to recede into indifference and turn a blind-eye. Second, people can internalize the situation and become resentful so that they actively shut out others. Or, third, people can resist and fight for what they believe is morally right. Only through removing the walls that separate us, said Jackson, can we move toward a country that is more inclusive and just for all of its citizens.Recognizing the importance of education in achieving this goal, Jackson urged future generations of students to usher in this vision, reminding the audience that “strong minds break strong chains.” Reflecting further, Jackson called for voting reforms that better construct a system that promotes, protects, and gives greater access to voting for more Americans. When asked for steps on how students can enable their own agency as activists, Jackson highlighted the importance of taking education seriously, doing research to shine light onto issues, and taking necessary steps to act with intentionality.“There’s magnetism in the rightness of you cause,” Jackson remarked. “Don’t give up on loving and caring.” EdCast An education podcast that keeps the focus simple: what makes a difference for learners, educators, parents, and communities Explore All Articles Related Articles Education Now Navigating Tensions Over Teaching Race and Racism A discussion on how schools, educators, and families can navigate the continued politicization and tensions around teaching and talking about race, racism, diversity, and equity. EdCast Disrupting Whiteness in the Classroom How teachers can tackle the difficult work of countering racism in education. EdCast The State of Critical Race Theory in Education The pioneer of critical race theory in education discusses the current politicization and tension around teaching about race in the classroom.