Recent legislative efforts in states across the country aim to prohibit classroom discussions of racism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression. In the face of these book bans and educational gag orders, there is a growing need to support teachers in delivering inclusive, culturally relevant content that affirms the identities of all students and speaks honestly about the history and current realities of injustice in the US.
VOW’s education program amplifies stories that are often silenced or marginalized, and places students and their experiences the center of the learning. Through oral history and storytelling projects, students are able to learn outside the textbook, as well as from their communities and peers.
We have developed eight new grab-and-go oral history resources for educators to use in support of their specific class goals and curricula:
- Intro to Oral History & Ethical Storytelling Principles
- Getting To Know You Interview
- Artifact Interview (Grades 3-5)
- Artifact Interview (Grades 6-12)
- Family, Culture, and Traditions Interview
- Journeys and Migration Model Interview
- Jobs and Careers Interview
- Oral History Found Poem
These short, accessible interview and reflection activities create opportunities for students to explore, question, and celebrate key topics within their own communities. The lesson plans foster vital student skills, including social-emotional learning, critical thinking, communication, and literacy. Conducting interviews and editing narratives can also cultivate empathy, challenge stereotyping and bias, and foster curiosity, belonging, and community engagement.
VOW is one of the best organizations I have worked with as an educator. Each time I recommend their materials to a colleague, they also discover the value and importance of the work VOW does not only in the field of education, but really for our communities and the world.
Von Torres, Teacher at Clovis Community College
Work with Us
We has extensive experience working with teachers, school districts, and education organizations to create curricula and activities that increase student engagement and learning in the classroom. We can support with curriculum design, oral history projects, programs for community engagement and participation, professional development and trainings, and more. Interested in collaborating? Reach out to learn more!
