How can we go about discussing these issues?
To properly discuss issues that matter, we must first create a welcoming environment. People will not open up about their true feelings if they feel uncomfortable or not welcomed. To create this environment in a classroom, you need to build relationships with your students. Learn about your students' cultures, hobbies, and families. Not only should you learn about your students' personalities, but let them see your personality as well. Let your students have a glimpse into your life and see that you are a human being just like they are. When your classroom feels like a community, students will have more confidence to speak up.
While it is important to be respectful, you do not need to prioritize comfort over diving deeper into the discussion of issues that matter. I have met many White Americans who are completely uncomfortable with talking about race and avoid it entirely. This does not help us progress. This does not help us become better people.
Simply opening up the space for discussing important issues is better than not doing so. You can ask your students how they feel about a current issue and allow them to discuss it with their peers. Some students may have polar opposite viewpoints, and that is okay. Listening to the opposite stance and internalizing it makes you a wiser and more understanding person.
