So far, we have discussed the importance of healing, self-care, and reflection at this critical moment in education as the COVID pandemic continues to impact our daily lives. All pandemic, and for many years prior, we have seen corporate, education-reform, anti-union forces weaponizing dialogue around Critical Race Theory, social justice, and racial justice. Today, we want to talk about our labor movement and union collectives. How will our collectives across union spaces grow, galvanize, and move forward the movement for education justice?

Song Credit:

• Nobody, Nas & Lauryn Hill

Over the course of the pandemic, many learning spaces looked very different than anyone is used to. Beyond the spaces we occupy, our relationships with young folx and the contexts through which we teach have changed. Even now, as we return to campuses, things steadily change. We can’t help but wonder what still lie ahead. More importantly, what is the new future of education? ‘Cause we all know, “normal” was never it for all students.

Song(s) Credit:

• The Questions, Common & Mos Def
• Words I Never Said, Lupe Fiasco & Skyler Gray

We are just coming off summer break and many of us across the profession are back on physical campuses. Unfortunately, educators have a bad habit of not taking breaks or prioritizing our own health. Our districts and unions will encourage us to labor for “the love of the kids” while reminding you to rest. #HowSway. There should not be any guilt around visiting your doctor or taking a day when you are unwell, whether mentally or physically. But what are you doing for you and how has this pandemic affected your self-care routines?

Song(s) Mentions:

• Ex-Factor, Lauryn Hill
• Black Girl Pain, Talib Kweli