When fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, accessibility, and belonging in our interactions, it’s essential to ensure that we serve our students, our environment, and our profession. We must intentionally move away from default reactions and responses that may limit open dialogue and diverse perspectives. Becoming culturally responsive, especially in our teaching approach, philosophy, and instruction, is an ongoing, intentional process—not a fixed destination.
I encourage you to reflect on your journey and how it changes when we shift from thinking about reaching a destination to embracing a lifelong path of growth and development. As you continue reading, I invite you to consider two key questions to guide your journey:
- What does culturally responsive engagement and interactions mean to you?
- Why is becoming more culturally responsive important in your role as an educator and/or citizen?
Remind Yourself to WAIT
Many colleagues who have attended workshops or conferences with me know that I enjoy using acronyms. I’d like to share a few that might serve as helpful reminders for supporting students and fostering a sense of belonging in your classrooms and learning environments. As you continue your journey of learning and development—whether in the classroom with students or in communities that aid your growth—sometimes the best approach is simply to listen. I’ve often felt the urge to respond immediately when something is said or done that challenges my way of thinking. In those moments, I remind myself to WAIT, which stands for “Why Am I Talking?” This helps me pause before reacting. Often, our students, colleagues, and situations require us to listen and learn rather than offering our own voice or advice right away. One way to honor different perspectives and cultures is by giving others the space to be heard before we respond.
In addition to remembering to WAIT, when it’s time to use our voice, we should focus on calling people in, not calling them out. We must approach conversations with a spirit of curiosity to support one another’s growth and development rather than with an investigative mindset that seeks to reprimand or penalize. One way to show curiosity is by focusing on similarities rather than differences—by comparing in, not out. As we interact with colleagues and students, it’s important to intentionally seek out different perspectives and find the truth, however small, in viewpoints that may be opposite to our own. Even finding just 2% truth in another’s perspective can help us build common ground and work through differences to support one another. When we embrace approaches that foster common ground and understanding, rather than focusing on right versus wrong, we create space for curiosity instead of judgment. By doing this, we move closer to unity—and remember, you can’t spell “unity” without “U” and “I.” Together, we are essential in creating and cultivating that unity.
Seek Support When Needed
While many of these tips are helpful, we can’t control how others react or respond to us. Not every situation will go favorably, and that’s okay. While we can’t control others, we can control ourselves. In challenging situations, one of the best things we can do is remember QTIP: Quit Taking It Personally. Everyone is entitled to have a bad day, and not everything is about us. We don’t have to stay in a negative space with others. We can choose to disengage from negativity and focus on something that makes our day more productive. By holding things more lightly and not taking everything personally, we free ourselves from carrying the weight and baggage of the day, week, or month into other encounters.
We must also remember that it’s okay not to know everything. When you’re stuck or unsure, it’s perfectly fine to admit that and then take steps to figure it out. Don’t hesitate to PUP: Pick Up the Phone! Whether it’s a call, text, email, or even sending smoke signals, reach out for support. Use your resources and networks because the journey toward change and inclusivity isn’t one you need to travel alone. Ask for help and support when needed to continue nurturing your growth and development. Yes, your journey is your responsibility, but building a strong support network is crucial. Find a mentor, and when you’re ready, offer to mentor others. We are stronger together.
With these tips, I invite you to return to the guiding questions:
- What does culturally responsive engagement and interactions mean to you?
- Why is becoming more culturally responsive important in your role as an educator and/or citizen?
Based on your connections, interpretations, and insights, what have you added, removed, or revised in your thinking? Additionally, what new possibilities have emerged for you?
In all, fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, accessibility, and belonging requires us to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and intentional action. It’s not about reaching a fixed destination but committing to a lifelong journey of growth, reflection, and responsiveness. By listening first, using our voice thoughtfully, and seeking common ground in our interactions, we can create spaces where all perspectives are valued and everyone feels seen and heard. While we may not control others’ reactions, we can control how we show up—responding with curiosity, compassion, and openness. Remember to take care of yourself, seek support when needed, and contribute to the growth of those around you. Together, we can cultivate the unity that leads to meaningful and lasting change.
Author Bio:
Antione D. Tomlin, PhD, PCC, is a tenured Associate Professor and Director of Academic Literacies Tutoring Center at Anne Arundel Community College. Dr. Tomlin is also an ICF Certified Life Coach. Feel free to reach out at www.drantionetomlin.com or on X (Twitter) @Tomlinantione.
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Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Interfolio.