https://goddard-edu.zoom.us/j/97948422709The Sankofa Series: Sharing a Practicum The Sankofa is a symbol from the Akan language in Ghana meaning “go back and fetch it”. It revolves around the idea that we must look back to the past so that we may understand how we became what we are and move forward into a better future. How do we hold the space for others to tell their story? How do we tell our own story? How can storytelling be a form of social justice? Inspired by the spirit of the Sankofa, I offer 3 short presentations where I approached these questions both as an educator and as a storyteller who is learning the skills of digital storytelling as my modality. For each workshop I will share my own artistic process, pose an essential question to fellow educators, and share a link to my digital story.
Day 1: “Retrieving the Past." We are the legacy of our grandmothers. Essential question for building community in a classroom: What is something that you/your ancestors have survived? Short film: “Firefly”
Day 2: “Present day activism in Indigenous Film." Modern Indigenous storytelling as social justice. Essential Question for a classroom: What stereotypes are you aware that exist about you? How do we confront racial stereotypes through storytelling? Short digital story: “Neither this Nor That”
Day 3: “Leaning into the Future.” Walking towards a future that continually creates space for artistic representation in all corners of community, education and in our storytelling culture. Storytelling is Justice. It is representation. It is a way to honor the past, to become a vehicle of change for the present and to lean into the uncertain future always holding space for the the stories of marginalized communities. It is taking hold of our grief, our fears, our joys, and the stories that move us and connect us all….and stepping forward. Essential Question for educators/artists: What is the difference between multiculturalism and Representation? How do we honor the journey of our students by ensuring they see themselves in their own education? Short digital story: “Patterns in the Sand”
