Undoing Institutional Racism

Each May, over 120 SCCS early learning professionals, nonprofit leaders, and administrative staff gather for an expert-led Undoing Institutional Racism Workshop & Training. This professional development event focuses on understanding the historical roots of systemic racism and building strategies to dismantle institutional barriers that disproportionately impact communities of colors.

Through group activities, facilitated discussions, and storytelling, participants explore how racism is embedded in education and ways in which educators can speak up and out about racial injustice. The workshop emphasizes the importance of accountability, reflective practice, and policy change in fostering racial equity in the classroom and beyond.

UIR Strategies

To further our mission and commitment to equity, SCCS implements the following expert-recommended strategies in early learning.

Discuss and reflect on current anti-bias education practices among staff and Directors.
Implement anti-bias training for all staff to enrich our culturally and linguistically relevant environments.
Facilitate anti-bias efforts through monthly staff discussions across centers and the administrative office. These sessions promote awareness and open dialogue on racism, cultural diversity, and their influence on SCCS practices.
Commit to equitable and intentional hiring practices to ensure SCCS staff reflect the diverse cultures represented at each center.
Communicate with families in their home language and translate when appropriate.
Uphold cultural democracy so that no one language or culture dominates a single environment.
Review current research to support strategies that close the achievement gap between children of color and white children.

SCCS is dedicated to providing teachers with the tools and resources to foster empathy, fairness, and critical thinking. We are seeking funding to support this vital professional development event, giving Seattle’s educators the skills and knowledge to excel.

For event collaboration and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Deputy Director, Emily Adams at eadams@soundchild.org.