Families

Even very small children notice that people look different. Conversations about race begin in the home and families must equip children to live and work harmoniously with people of all colors, creeds and orientations. The only way to turn the tides against intolerance and hatred is to become personally committed to talking about these issues. But where do you begin? The RACE exhibit is a useful tool for families to start and continue conversations on race.

Information to help you prepare for your visit:

• The RACE exhibit examines the topic from scientific, historical and cultural perspectives.
• The RACE exhibit involves a lot of reading – middle school and older students may enjoy it the most but with a little engagement, younger students can enjoy it as well. Be prepared to use the information presented as conversation starters. Relate the information to the child’s own reality, to their school, their friends, their neighborhood. Make it personal!
• The exhibit is just an exhibit! If we want to change our society, it’s up to us to model the proper behavior. Create a social world for your children that includes peoples of different backgrounds. Have dinner with other families and most importantly treat each person as equal regardless of racial background. Be the change you want to see!

“One day our descendants will
think it incredible that we paid
so much attention to things like
the amount of melanin in our skin
or the shape of our eyes or
our gender instead of the unique
identities of each of us as
complex human beings.”
Franklin Thomas, 1983

“Not everything that is faced can be
changed, but nothing can be changed until
it is faced.”

—James Baldwin, author