Do you know how it feels to be treated differently as the “other”? Want to help change that?
Meridian High School students in Falls Church are tackling those questions impacting people of all ages in an interactive workshop, “Othering: The Danger of ‘US vs THEM’ Thinking.” The program is from 1 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, at the school, 121 Mustang Alley.
Organizers have asked a panel of professionals and a student to examine systemic exclusion based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. Speakers will address the impact of exclusion on victims, perpetrators and their communities, as well as strategies to counter othering.
“Our goal is to move beyond conversation by equipping participants with practical, actionable strategies to help create a more inclusive environment,” said sophomore Liya Bejarano, one of the Meridian organizers. “This workshop is for everyone—teenagers and adults alike—because we all play a role in making our community feel like a place where everyone belongs.”
The panel features four speakers.
Dr. Terry J. Dade, an administrator and educator for more than 25 years, was appointed superintendent of Falls Church schools in July. A former assistant superintendent and elementary school principal in Fairfax County Public Schools, and a parent, himself, he was selected for his leadership skills, innovation and ability to foster strong school communities. He is expected to share insights on the role schools and the community can play in overcoming systemic exclusion and fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging that transcends differences.
Chlo’e Edwards, a social justice advocate and public policy strategist regarding social trauma, is expected to address how systemic rules and racial inequity can impact emotional health over time, as well as ways to promote healing and empower marginalized voices.
Michelle Goldberg, school counselor at Mount Daniel Elementary School, leads the school’s “No Place for Hate” initiative and is a member of the Falls Church City Public Schools Equity Team. As an educator and administrator in Seattle, her experience working with students and families has honed practical perspectives on how othering affects students’ mental health, sense of belonging and well-being. She is expected to offer practical ideas and strategies to address othering behaviors and promote a sense of belonging.
Meridian junior Xavier Smith is president of the school’s Black Student Union. He recently addressed the school board on the need for Black students to encounter positive environments throughout their elementary and middle school years, as well as in high school. He plans to share ideas about what role schools and parents can play in providing role models, inspiration and protection to students
In addition, Meridian senior Olivia Pierre will offer a spoken word performance.
Doors will open at noon so participants can meet and enjoy a light lunch around the Marian Costner Selby Peace Garden on the school’s fifth floor. Everyone is invited to explore the garden and artworks commemorating Ms. Selby, the first African American student to attend and later graduate from the former segregated George Mason High School.
The afternoon includes childcare with supervised activities, refreshments and free parking. The workshop is free, but registration is requested at https://THHF-SJC-Othering.eventbrite.com. Walk-ins also are welcome.
The workshop is sponsored by the Social Justice Committee of Falls Church and Vicinity, an initiative of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation. The committee and foundation work in partnership with the Chi Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.