With racism, this country seems to take two steps forward and one step back.
It has been that way for 50 years. It started with passage of the Civil Rights Act, followed by violent protests of the late ’60s. And it’s continued all the way to the election of President Obama, followed by the violent protests related to Ferguson, Mo.
But we in Marysville and Tulalip vow to buck that trend.
The two communities took a historic step in coming together as one at the Marysville School Board meeting this week. The board approved the use of the “Since Time Immemorial” curriculum. About a dozen Native Americans from the Tulalip and other tribes were there to support its passage.
The curriculum was developed a few years ago by the state schools office. One goal is to break down barriers by increasing knowledge about Native Americans.
With knowledge there is less ignorance. With less ignorance there is less hatred. With less hatred there is less discrimination. With less discrimination there is a better life for everyone.
The Marysville district has been thinking of using the curriculum for years, but has been waiting for the Tulalip Tribes to come up with some additions so there would be more of a local flavor to it. But after the shooting at Marysville-Pilchuck High School both agree the time to educate is now.
The curriculum is a win-win for all. It is free. It is available online. There are lessons for all grades. Lessons are tiered so they are as easy as a simple discussion or as in-depth as a classroom-based assessment. They can be used in Washington State History, U.S. History or Contemporary Issues classes.
Native Americans are so important to this country’s history, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Because of their culture, they often keep to themselves. But they seem to realize now that the only possible way for a chance to end discrimination is to be more open about themselves.
The testimony at the board meeting was emotional. Tribal members talked about how the elders now are watching to see if this sharing of information works breaks down barriers and leads to more trust. Others talked about being adversaries for too long, healing and this being a golden opportunity.
Denny Hurtado of OSPI said he wished this curriculum was available 50 years ago.
We agree. It is up to all of us to make this work.
