6 Elements of Social Justice Ed.: Family, Familia

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Family, Familia

Family, Familia by Diane Gonzales Bertrand is a book written in English and Spanish geared towards ages 7-11. Family values, culture, history and tradition are a few concepts learned through the story of the Gonzales Family Reunion. Pauline Rodriguez Howard illustrated Family, Familia allowing readers to spark their imagination. We have all heard stories and memories of our ancestors. Each student comes from a different background with many stories to share. Exploring diversity within the classroom allows students to learn about their own heritage, and other students and their cultures. I focused on element 1, self love and knowledge, in the Six Elements of Social Justice. Culture, heritage, and ethnicity were demonstrated in Family, Familia. I feel this book is a useful tool in the classroom because students can share their different traditions and learn about other cultures. Daniel was board with his father’s stories but, after the Gonzales family reunion Daniel showed great appreciation and pride in his culture and family. “We lived in different places, and some had different names, but we were all connected.” A classroom is also like a family; we share stories, experience challenges, make memories, and grow together. We are all connected through learning and the want to move forward.