In the best of times, Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, those in the LGBTQ community, and children and families who are poor, low income, or subject to other social and economic displacement are hit hardest by illness, physical and mental disorders, natural or human-made disasters, and other societal ills. This is no less true, and perhaps even magnified, by the ravages of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
As NAIS member schools inclusive of many different demographics, it’s critical that we take into account racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, and other dimensions of difference that are impacted by the decisions schools are making in response to risks posed by the coronavirus. Virtual classes require computers and high-speed internet, courses offered during the day may pose a challenge for older students who must care for their younger siblings or other family members while parents and guardians work. Racism, xenophobia, and hate crimes against Asians have risen dramatically. And all of this and more as students and adults struggle to protect themselves from yet another invisible force that threatens their lives.
These and other equity issues are illuminated by our present crisis. All of these issues bare directly on the health and well-being of our students and all the adults that help schools run. Consequently, we will continue to curate and share information and resources that speak to these disparities, and that call us to be cognizant of every member of our community.
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