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Diversity Day 2000: Lift Every Voice |
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Diversity Day 2000: Lift Every Voice |
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Sometimes in the life of a school there are
historic moments.
"Lift Every Voice" - Diversity Day 2000 - was such a moment. On this website, you will read about and see images of this event which included students in grades K-12. The joyful opening and closing assemblies alone were magnificent testimonies to the community we have established at GFS. It was inspiring to see faculty and students gather to rejoice in our diversity. In fact, students were responsible for the planning for Diversity Day. They helped design the ceremonies and suggested the topics and speakers for a host of workshops. What better thought than students uniting in their work on diversity?
Having Kevin Jennings, Director of the Gay and Lesbian Educators Network (GLSEN), as the keynote speaker was a highlight for most of our students in grades 6-12. His powerful personal story reminded us of the challenges our society still faces. He also spoke with genuine hope. Needless to say, sexual orientation is the subject of great debate in our society; yet Kevin reminded us to find the dignity and worth in everyone regardless of our beliefs or feelings about homosexuality. In telling his story, he described the many barriers he and his family had to overcome: race, class, regionalism (he was born in the South), gender, religion, as well as sexual orientation. Kevin inspired us with his courage, humility and grace while he challenged us to confront injustice. He certainly underscored our philosophy "to seek that of God in everyone."
Kevin Jennings' speech also challenged us as members of the larger community. He reminded us that we cannot dismiss our nation's ideals as irrelevant. Quoting from the Declaration of Independence, he reminded us that every American has "the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Likewise, the Pledge of Allegiance stresses "liberty and justice for all." These ideals are difficult to maintain without our intentional effort. It is too easy to join a system of privilege which offers automatic advantage to those who have historically benefited in our society. Yet, even with these challenges before us, I believe Kevin Jennings could look upon our student body with genuine hope. GFS has embraced difference as a key part of our educational mission. Our students often express intense concern about diversity in our school and in our society. Their involvement in the Germantown community offers a consistent reminder of the dignity of people regardless of circumstance. Their energy and leadership in creating and participating in Diversity Day testify to their commitment to these complex issues.
When Kevin Jennings completed his speech, the students responded with a standing ovation. It was clear that we had heard a dynamic speaker who inspired us and challenged us. It was clear that we had gotten past labels and seen a person. Isn't that what a GFS education is all about? We want our students to get past stereotypes and see real people. We want them to take the time to see inequity in our society and to challenge it. We want them to be leaders in a society that often forgets its own mandate to seek liberty and justice for all.
Diversity Day was historic because we paused to examine our values, to celebrate them and to act on them. I hope that parents, alumni and the school's many friends recognize that our work in seeking that of God in every individual is never finished. May you be inspired by viewing this diversity website and renew your commitment to justice and to act intentionally in promoting communities rich in diversity.
- Richard L. Wade, head of school