The theme of the 2023 Black History Month at the Ottawa Catholic School Board was “Black Joy Inspiring Change.” However, it can be challenging to create opportunities for change, particularly when it comes to encouraging high school students to build a sense of community, expand their perspectives, engage in difficult conversations, and advocate for those who feel unheard.
At All Saints High School, Black Student Association lead teacher, Ms. Ann Marie Vanneste, says, “It’s not one thing; it is many things strung together over time with a commitment to creating a sense of togetherness. Rooted in providing opportunities to help students build awareness of who they are and understand their place in the world.”
She and her colleagues believe the key to a lasting impact on students’ lives is through innovative teaching practices that utilize Deep Learning, ensuring that the knowledge they gain stays with them for a lifetime. That is why Ms. Vanneste, with a host of other educators, took over 900 Grades- 9 -12 students to see the movie Till. The film is based on the true life story of Mamie Till-Bradly, an educator and activist who relentlessly pursued justice after the murder of her 14-year-old son Emmett in 1955 in Mississippi. Emmett Till’s murder sparked the activism known as the Civil Rights Movement.
Ms. Vanneste said the concept of the students walking to the theatre as one school community is meaningful – the message was that they all “Walk Till Justice.” Allowing Black students to feel seen and supported by their All Saints Family. She quickly pointed out that this was just one activity the school had engaged in to keep the conversation going about Anti-Black Racism. She said it’s important to note that learning happens with students and educators alike!
At OCSB, all educators practice Deep Learning, which means they are open to innovative and creative problem-solving approaches. Deep Learning involves exploring problems from a fresh perspective and finding new ways to address them. Organizing a movie trip for 900 students may seem challenging to some, but OCSB educators were not phased by it.
The ultimate purpose of attending the movie was to foster a sense of togetherness, awareness, empathy, and compassion among the students by exposing them to Emmett’s story. By all accounts, this activity was a success, as many students expressed a sense of unity and respect after participating in the school-wide event.