Black Lives Matter

This lesson engages students in giving thanks for Breonna Taylor’s life, while offering space to share their impressions, feelings, experiences, and thoughts around the tragic circumstances of her death.

Students consider what “white supremacy” means, what groups in society have supremacy, and explore the origins of white supremacy through a short video and discussion.

On one hand, as a white person, I know I have an opportunity and an obligation to interrupt. But I also have the trepidation of entering into something uncomfortable that I’m not entirely prepared for.

This activity invites students to hear the words of Jacob Blake’s mother and sister, and to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings about the police shooting in Kenosha Wisconsin, and its impact.

Centering diverse cultures can strengthen community and sense of belonging for everyone, writes Morningside Center staff developer Nicole Lavonne Smith. 

Students read and think about what other students have to say about Covid-19 and Black Lives Matter and then share their own perspectives.  (Grades 3-6)

Students examine and reflect on other students’ art and writing about Covid and Black Lives Matter, and share their own perspectives, including through art. (Grades 6-12)

"This year, Juneteenth and the 4th of July arrived amidst a protest party in full swing. In my social circles, both days were heightened displays of Black love and joy, Black pain and resistance," writes Morningside Center staff developer Nicole Lavonne Smith. 

This lesson invites students to listen to and reflect on portraits of 12 Black Lives Matter protesters from across the U.S.

Meyer Levin Middle School principal George Patterson writes in Chalkbeat about how his awe-inspiring school puts students at the center of Juneteenth.