“The goal of multicultural education, as defined above, captures the aspirations and expectations of most immigrant families and their children. At the same time, it presents problems of implementation. It is not clear how an all-inclusive curriculum can be achieved in a context where, according to Greene (1988), immigrants keep coming ―with their own cultural memories, with voices aching to be heard‖ (p. 87); nor is it clear what is meant by a one-size-fits-all multicultural curriculum in a society where multiculturalism represents a multiplicity of ideologies and identities, beyond race and nationality. In the case of African immigrants, they come from different cultures, speaking various languages, and adhering to different traditions and beliefs. This multifacetedness of African societies is barely perceivable in the mainstream curriculum nor is it clearly reflected in the multicultural education philosophy.”
The multicultural paradigm has yet to frame a multidimensional, culturally-responsive pedagogy, so that the needs and experiences of immigrant groups from societies with an embedded cultural diversity are recognized. Although some African nations and cultures are not well known internationally, immigrant children derive a sense of identity and pride from their roots. A curriculum that is oblivious to the histories of some immigrant societies, while exalting others, may create a sense of social exclusion and intellectual intimidation. Furthermore, when a student’s culture is publicly degraded or misrepresented, the resulting feelings of shame, anger, and victimization are detrimental to his or her overall integration into the host society.”
While multicultural education aims to fulfill immigrant families’ aspirations, its implementation faces challenges due to the diversity of incoming immigrants, each bringing unique cultures, languages, traditions, and beliefs, particularly in the case of African immigrants. The current curriculum and multicultural education philosophy inadequately represent this diversity. Additionally, there’s a need for a culturally-responsive pedagogy that recognizes and addresses the diverse experiences of all immigrant groups. Ignoring the histories and contributions of certain immigrant groups while highlighting others can lead to feelings of exclusion and intimidation among students. When students see their culture misrepresented or degraded, it hinders their integration into society, causing feelings of shame, anger, and victimization.
Response
Multicultural education is super important because it’s supposed to help all students, including those from immigrant families, feel seen and respected. However, it’s clear that we need to do a better job at this in schools. Every immigrant group, including African immigrants, brings something special to the table – like different and valuable traditions, languages, and beliefs. Schools need to show and celebrate these differences better. It’s not cool when only some cultures are highlighted in class while others are ignored or shown incorrectly. This can make some students feel left out and even ashamed of their backgrounds, which isn’t right. We need a school environment where everyone’s background is understood and celebrated, so all students can feel proud and a part of the community.
Video Insight
The video titled “Some Challenges in U.S. School for African immigrants – children” shares the story of a student from Uganda who finds it hard to fit into school in the U.S. This student wants to respect their parents’ values, like being humble and respectful, but finds it hard when they’re expected to speak up and join in class discussions all the time. This situation shows the tough adjustments kids from different countries have to make, and it can be really stressful for them.
Relatability
Many people, not just students, who move to new places feel the struggle of trying to fit in while still staying true to who they are and where they come from. Adapting to new ways while keeping your own identity is a challenge that many face.
Reflection
The student’s story from the video shows us why it’s so important for schools to be places where everyone’s culture is valued and respected. Teachers and schools can help by creating a space where all students, no matter where they’re from, feel supported and valued. This story is a reminder to teachers to understand and celebrate the different cultures in their classrooms, creating a place where everyone can learn and succeed together.
One thought on “Conversation 4”
Hi Christy. I enjoyed reading your post, it’s very concise and really highlights the importance of multicultural education and the challenges immigrant students face. I agree with a lot of your analysis and I also wrote about the importance of multicultural education in my post. I also found what you said regarding teachers needing to understand cultural diversity impactful, as that’s where eventual systemic changes will need to stem from.