I can recall a trip that my children and I took to Washington, D. C. This was the first trip I had taken them on outside of the south. They were so excited about going. Before we left, we discussed the different things that we would see including the buildings and historical places. It never crossed my mind to discuss the culture differences that they would experience. On our first day there, I had to go to the mall to get some items that I had forgotten to pack. As I hurried through the store, my youngest as mesmerized at how big the mall was and more amazed at the people. She began to say things like "O Mama! What language are they speaking?" and "O Lord! That black man is kissing that white woman." Quickly, I cupped my hand over her mouth because she speaking loud enough for everyone to hear her. I scolded her and was very upset with her.
I now realize that she was simply not accustomed to the diversity that can be seen in bigger cities. She had never really heard different languages and experienced interracial dating. My reaction made her feel as if she had done something wrong by merely pointing out some differences. An anti-bias educator would have used this moment to teach diversity and how different areas of the country have different characteristics. This was also a chance to discuss interracial dating and the diversity of some students in the class.
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