Student: Inclusivity Events Don't Solve Everything, But They're a Start
Over the last two years, MSMHS has pushed for inclusivity through activities and events. Has it worked?
What happened: During February, MSMHS held a variety of Black History Month-focused activities, where students decorated classroom doors with iconic members of the Black community.
Here’s why: This activity is a part of a larger push for inclusivity by the administration in MSMHS over the past years. This door decorating event is part of a bigger effort to promote awareness, inclusivity, and anti-racism. Similar events like Hispanic Heritage Month and Lunar New Year also aimed to promote inclusivity.
Student perspective: Some students thought that Black History Month was effective, while others said that it was not doing enough. One student, who asked to stay anonymous, said “I think it’s great that we're celebrating [diversity] here, for example, with the door decorating. It allows people to express creativity," adding "I feel it represents individuals who previously have not been acknowledged.”
What students thought: Some students have said that the event really helps people learn more. Another student who asked to stay anonymous said “Everybody is collaborating, everybody is learning, everybody has the opportunity to learn," explaining that these events "kind of immerses them in the experience.”
Yes, but: Some students also say the event, while beneficial, does not solve all problems both at MSMHS and in America. Freshman Malachi Gousman said that, while the events were beneficial, “there’s still racism here in America with people saying racist things, and with stereotypical ideas of African Americans,” though adding that “it’s a start.”
