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American identity. It’s not one size fits all. This sentiment was part of the conversation during a diversity training workshop for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) students, presented on Monday, Sept. 14 by Tabari Coleman, training consultant, director of Professional Development with the Anti-Defamation League and former CHS instructor. 

Coleman, who provides professional development and diversity training for various schools, agencies and non-profits, spoke via Zoom to juniors in the classes of CHS faculty associates Carolyn Kribs, social studies; Colin Neumeyer, English; and Stephanie Newton, literacy specialist. 

The instructors’ classes have been working on a collaboration of cross-curricular team teaching on “What Does it Mean to be an American?” project and exploring the question through history, literature and writing, according to Kribs.  

Coleman, who taught consumer’s education and public speaking at CHS from 2001-03, started off the discussion with: “What does it mean to be an American?” 

“Freedom” was one quick response. 

“And what does it mean to be a Black American? Are they the same thing?” asked Coleman. 

“No. We get racially profiled sometimes,” said one male student. 

“But, we do have the right to protest,” added one female student. 

“The question of what it means to be an American is broad and has continued to evolve over time,” expounded Tabari. “There are groups in this country who have been able to assimilate a lot easier. There are barriers that prevent us (Blacks) from being seen in ways that white people are seen as American. A lot of that has to do with our history.” 

“When using the descriptor of freedom as being an American, I’m not sure that describes the experiences of all people,” continued Tabari. “When I look around, I see a number of Americans who have not been given the same opportunities as other Americans. Unconsciously, I may have gone along with the idea that freedom is what all Americans enjoy. But, as I become aware and conscious, I may realize that it is not true for everybody. And if that is not true, what other things are not true?” 

Tabari also discussed multiple identities that can include race, gender and place of origin. 

“We will identify the experiences that have consciously and unconsciously shaped your identity, your assumptions about other people and your world view,” Tabari said.    

CHS students shared some of their encounters and feelings about being Black Americans. 

“The topics we talked about were relevant, especially in today’s society,” said J’Nyla Wilbourn. “I learned more about my history, as well. My favorite part was a quote from Frederick Douglass in talking about Black people, ‘The color line meets him everywhere, and in a measure shuts him out from all respectable and profitable trades and callings.’ What I took from that is the systemic racism, discrimination, etc. that limits Black people from opportunities.” 

“I wanted to provide students an opportunity to explore the various aspects of their identities,” said Tabari, “and for them to reflect on the notion of what is means to be an American, and how that may be experienced differently by people of color in the U.S., specifically folks of African heritage.” 

“I hope students realized that their experiences, feeling and voices are valued,” added Kribs. 

“Young people have to be encouraged to think critically about their identities, and to see themselves outside of more than just one aspect of their identity,” informed Tabari. “We must all understand our identities are multi-layered and intertwined with each other. Maybe then we will feel responsible for each other, and as a result make decisions that benefit everyone.” 

The SIUE Charter High School is a school-of-choice for families in the East St. Louis School District 189. The mission of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School is to prepare students who are career- and college-ready upon graduation. To achieve this mission, the school and its staff will positively impact the educational and economic lives of East St. Louis, Illinois youth through individualized instruction in core academic subjects, exploration of career interests and aptitudes, assistance in realizing students’ talents, high academic goals, and expectations that graduates will become competitive employees for the 21st century. 

Photo:
Tabari Coleman, training consultant, director of Professional Development with the Anti-Defamation League and former CHS instructor.