The 411 for January 17th: Inclusivity, Empowerment & Practical Tips Inside!
Honoring Dr. King and His Legacy
Hey, Inclusive AF Crew!
Welcome to this week’s FREE edition of the Inclusive AF Newsletter! I’m so thrilled you’re here—because every time we connect, it’s another step toward building a world where everyone belongs.
This week, I’ve been thinking about Dr. King. I am very fortunate to have been in public school, post-segregation in the deep south. I always had at least 1 Black teacher. I had Black classmates and friends. Black History Month was LIT in the 70’s and 80’s. It’s the very reason I love biographies and memoirs. I probably read every Black bio in our little school library, along with Ebony and Jet magazines. My most favorite teacher ever, Mrs. Rozier was one BadAss Black Woman and influenced my decision to become a teacher.
One year, I was so inspired by Dr. King that I made him a birthday cake in my Holly Hobbie Easy Bake Oven. I am so grateful that my parents encouraged me & shared their knowledge of seeing Dr. King in action.
I tell you this so you know that becoming Inclusive AF is a journey. You can start at any time - just don’t stop.
This week, instead of 4 Resources, 1 Tip and 1 Quote or Question, I am sharing 4 Resources to learn more about Dr. King and his legacy, along with 4 Tips to honor him, plus a quote and a question. Kinda long, but please keep reading!
Four Resources
My Brother Martin: Renowned educator Christine King Farris, older sister of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., joins with celebrated illustrator Chris Soentpiet to tell this "outstanding" (School Library Journal) and inspirational story of how one boyhood experience inspired a movement that would change the world as we know it. I had the great privilege of meeting Chris Soentpiet when I taught 2nd grade. If nothing else, explore this book for the art..
King: A Life: is a deeply researched biography of Martin Luther King Jr., written by Jonathan Eig, offering a fresh and intimate look at the civil rights leader. Drawing on newly declassified FBI files, the book explores King's personal struggles, relationships, and his unwavering fight for justice. Eig sheds light on MLK's humanity, his transformative impact on race relations, and his enduring legacy as both a leader and a martyr. WINNER OF THE 2024 PULITZER PRIZE FOR BIOGRAPHY
Selma: written by Paul Webb and directed by Ava DuVernay. Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 legally desegregated the South, discrimination was still rampant in certain areas, making it very difficult for Blacks to register to vote. In 1965, an Alabama city became the battleground in the fight for suffrage. Despite violent opposition, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo) and his followers pressed forward on an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, and their efforts culminated with President Lyndon Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Streaming on Netflix - maybe.
NPR - 6 Podcasts to Listen to In Honor of Dr. King Day: To help observe the holiday, here are six conversations from across public media on King's most powerful words, legacy and the ongoing fight for voting and racial justice in the United States and around the world.
Four Ways to Honor Dr. King
Create Art for Inclusion – Paint or draw posters with messages like “Love Over Hate” or “Everyone is Equal.” Include your kids or neighbors.
Participate in a Day of Service – Volunteer as a family or bring friends to local organizations that make a difference in your community. You can also just pick up trash in your neighborhood or school grounds.
Reflect on Biases – Take time to identify your own biases and steps you can take to contribute to an inclusive society.
Journal Your Dream – Write about what a truly inclusive society looks like to you and steps you can take to make it happen.
ONE Quote to Ponder or Post
ONE Question for Deeper Reflection
What steps can you take in your daily life to honor Dr. King's dream of a truly inclusive, equitable, and loving community? Reflect on moments where you’ve seen or practiced inclusion, and consider how you can expand that impact to make his vision a reality in your personal relationships and surroundings."
📢 We Want to Hear From YOU
This newsletter isn’t just about sharing ideas—it’s about building a community. I’d love to hear your thoughts, stories, or questions. What’s working for you on your inclusivity journey? Where do you need help?
Hit reply and share your experiences—or post them on social media using the hashtag #RandomActsofInclusion. Your stories could inspire someone else in our amazing crew!
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Together, we’re making inclusivity not just an idea, but a movement. Thanks for being part of this growing, badass community.
Until next week, keep showing up, speaking out, and being Inclusive AF!
With gratitude and JOY,
Janifer Wheeler
Founder, Inclusive AF
PS. If you want MORE resources or ways to honor Dr. King, become a Subscriber!