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In the current hostile learning environment created by censorship laws and policies aimed at prohibiting the teaching of honest history and further marginalizing LGBTQ+ students and educators, social justice education is essential. The Learning for Justice Social Justice Standards are designed to guide educators in developing inclusive curricula to make schools safer and more just and equitable. Comprised of four domains—identity, diversity, justice and action—the Social Justice Standards are intended for all content areas alongside state and Common Core standards.

Analyzing whose perspective is centered and whose is erased in significant conversations and spheres of influence paints a clear picture—an inconvenient truth— about the pervasiveness of systemic racism. And it’s particularly important that Black children see themselves represented in these narratives—especially in those spaces where Black people are intentionally rendered invisible. These LFJ resources highlight what’s at stake in the choices we make.

Legally obligated to enroll and support immigrant students—regardless of status—public schools often present numerous obstacles for young people and their families.

Teaching children empathy that leads to justice means much more than teaching kindness. Adults—educators, parents and caregivers—who support young learners have the opportunity to create “culture[s] of justice” in which empathy and justice are the priority. These LFJ resources feature strategies that educators, parents and caregivers can use to actively engage little learners as they develop age-appropriate skills and understanding that will lead them forward in the pursuit of justice.

As an onslaught of anti-LGBTQ efforts—particularly targeting trans and nonbinary youth—continues at the start of the new school year, it’s imperative for educators, parents and caregivers to help young people understand that justice requires an appreciation for the value of identity and diversity among individuals, and that there are actions to take to ensure equity. These LFJ resources can help foster such understanding. 

A social justice education expert offers suggestions for dealing with the implications of this seismic Supreme Court decision, believing in the power of education “to transform society, to work deliberately against injustice and to move toward collective liberation.” 

Textbooks reflect dominant social structures—including biases and the lack of representation of people who are historically relegated to the margins. Educators are looking for ways to use and expand on textbook content to teach a more inclusive and honest history. These LFJ resources provide some suggestions for how to make that happen.