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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 14, 2021 03:09 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jared G. Solomon |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Cultural Awareness Professional Development for Educators |
| When I was first elected to the legislature over 100 headstones were desecrated at cemetery in my neighborhood. We all condemned these acts and then held multiple community meetings to figure out next steps. One common theme that emerged from the residents was a desire to create better cultural awareness. People wanted to better understand the cultural backgrounds of those that lived in our community. Many believed that the best way to accomplish this was through a program where students could appreciate the cultural roots of people throughout Pennsylvania and their unique Pennsylvania and American experience. Since these events in my district the need for mutual understanding has only intensified. The events over the last few weeks underline the great divide amongst many in our country. The only way that we can heal and move forward is by better understanding one another. This legislation will not solve the problem, but it will be one tool that can be used to bring people together. One of the most impactful investments we can make is by helping our youngest Pennsylvanians better understand each other and appreciate our common humanity. We must provide them with a strong foundation of awareness so they proceed through life loving, welcoming, and engaging with people and cultures and faiths that are different from them. We aim to empower educators across Pennsylvania with a curriculum that connects kids to various cultures through food, art, books, movies, dance, travel and other cross-cultural experiences. It will encourage kids from different parts of the state to learn and appreciate each region and county’s culture. Teachers will be given free training on cultural awareness that allows them to effectively tailor and deliver their unique curriculum in their classroom. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. Thank you! |