Our Mission
Teaching for Liberation is dedicated to advancing the principles of Ethnic Studies, guided by values such as self-determination, anti-oppression, equity, and justice.
Our mission is to offer educators a diverse range of curriculum and resources that uplifts the experiences and narratives of people of color while emphasizing social-emotional learning. Our goal is to engage youth in an education that fosters critical thinking, community engagement, and the cultivation of critical hope. We are committed to connecting with educators for positive social change through transformative teaching practices.
Resources
Ethnic Studies Lesson Plans
The History of Ethnic Studies
In this teaching unit, students delve into the origins of Ethnic Studies, exploring the Black Student Union's advocacy for a more relevant education and the enduring 50-year struggle against state attempts to ban the course, driven by claims conflicting with the core principles of Ethnic Studies.
Intro to Identity: Understanding Who We Are & What Shapes Us
In this teaching unit, students investigate the complexity of identity by examining who they are, how stereotypes and prejudice shape the world around them, and how authentic storytelling builds connection and community.
4 I’s of Oppression
In this teaching unit, students explore the interconnectedness of the 4 I’s of Oppression, develop an awareness of systemic marginalization, and collaboratively brainstorm strategies for combating these oppressive systems.
Intro to Queer History
In this teaching unit, students explore the spectrum of gender and sexuality, delving into the historical struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community, while gaining insight into the lives of prominent LGBT figures and examining contemporary issues affecting LGBTQ individuals.
Community Building
+ Social Emotional Learning Resources
6 Back to School Community Building Games
This resource helps teachers foster a sense of classroom camaraderie by offering six interactive activities designed to cultivate a welcoming classroom environment, ultimately laying the foundation for academic success.
Facilitating Community Agreements
This resource helps teachers to seamlessly incorporate Community Agreements into their classroom while prioritizing student voice, fostering student ownership and encouraging collective classroom stewardship!
Beginning of Year Intake forms
This resource streamlines the process for teachers to get to know their students and build effective communication channels with their student’s families.
Welcome, I’m China!
(chee-nah ee-yah-ree)
China ‘Iyari Ruiz is an Ethnic Studies educator and a social justice based teacher & advocate
China ‘Iyari Ruiz (she/they) was born in San Diego and raised between Chula Vista and Tijuana, Mexico. She attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned degrees in Ethnic Studies, Chicano Studies, and Education. China also holds a Masters in Education with an emphasis in teaching history at Stanford’s Teacher Education Program. China believes in the transformative power of education as a path to liberation. She grounds her work in anti-oppressive teaching practices informed by Critical Pedagogy and Ethnic Studies. Ultimately, China’s goals as a teacher are to create conditions of possibility, cultivate equitable classrooms, and foster a joyous and loving space for youth.
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Design by
Rebecca Pollock
Developed By
Alchemy + Aim