Just my thoughts on those three teachers from Los Angeles picking OJ Simpson, RuPaul, and Dennis Rodman as role models for their Black History parade.
I'm torn.. On one hand, no one can judge.. By telling kids that RuPaul, OJ, and Dennis can't be heroes because of their past is just like saying that once you do something wrong you are considered an outcast. However, those teachers picked 3 individuals who have led checkered lives. To me, Black History Month is a time to honor African American individuals for their fight, dedication, perservance, and hardwork. I can think of numerous African Americans who would be considered a role model or hero, whether by society, parents, etc.
I just think those 3 teachers made a poor choice.
I would actually like to know their motives for choosing those 3 individuals. Perhaps, they wanted to show children that inspite of wrong doings, hang ups, or set backs, everyone can still have a chance to be a hero. Or they may have wanted to send the message that regardless of labels placed on a person by society, everyone is a hero in some shape or form which makes it easier for a child to accomplish things because then they would not have the pressure of being perfect riding on their backs. ... See More
However, those teachers could have just picked the first 3 Black people that came to mind just to fulfill an assignment placed on them by the Superintendent.
It also wasn't mentioned but maybe the children could have suggested those 3 individuals and the teachers were simply letting the students express themselves..
Long story short.. I'm torn..
Slight Distraction
15 years ago
