an be heard, and more opinions can be changed. The second major role teachers can play in educating students about racism is through exactly that, education. "A lot has been written about the nature of prejudice, and racism, the many ways in which it is manifested, how it is transmitted and perpetuated, and even the stages that individuals go though in overcoming it's effects" (Hacker 192). If teachers would find this information, believe in it and share it with the children, then hopefully a few, if not all the views of the students will change. "Everyone needs this body of knowledge" (193). The third important principle is to realize that we all have prejudices. They are formed very early in life and are often very strong. They become a natural part of our lives, and cloud our minds with ignorance. Teachers are seen as role models, authority figures, and mentors. So many children fail to challenge them whether they be right or wrong. "A corollary of the concept that we all have prejudices is the idea that it really is okay to make mistakes, and that mistakes are opportunities for learning and growing" (193). It could do wonders for both teachers and students if the educators taught about prejudice and taught about, and admitted their own mistakes. Lastly, the fourth key principle of overcoming racism is the realization that we all have been miseducated. All the textbooks record history from a "white European perspective" (194). We have all been fed facts and concepts that were candy coated, or just plain false. And the worst part is, we all sat back and absorbed it. No-one stood up and said "Wait, what about the Native Americans, or African Americans. What did they contribute?" We were led to believe that what they did wasn't important, or that they did nothing at all. It isn't enough that we celebrate Black History Month, or have a guest speaker in class who is Indian, we must learn history, the right...
