The Anniversary of May 14th: Remembrance & Unifying Efforts 2023

Posted On Monday May 15, 2023

Contributed by: The I.D.E.A Committee

The Anniversary of May 14th: Remembrance & Unifying Efforts 2023

*Scroll to the bottom for resources to help facilitate discussion about racism, the impact of systematic racism, and the importance of inclusivity & diversity.

On May 14, 2022 a racially motivated mass shooting occurred in our Buffalo community, at a Tops Friendly Markets supermarket in the East Side neighborhood. As the western New York community remembers the ten lives lost and the numerous lives impacted, students and staff at Erie 1 BOCES came together for a Day of Unity on its campuses; to elevate and celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion. We thank you for your ongoing dedication and commitment in supporting and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion throughout our organization; and within our community. Below are various activities to help facilitate meaningful dialogue and learning opportunities for students. Please continue to access and use these resources to continue ongoing critical dialogue and teaching that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Day of Healing and Restoration Streamed live on May 12, 2023. Buffalo Public Schools, ERIE 1 BOCES and other regional schools for performances, activities, and messages of healing and hope. Programming will be geared toward K-4 students, teachers, and their families.

Unifying Act Educators are encouraged to facilitate a unifying activity in their building, which can extend beyond the May 12th Unity Day. Unity Art Messages is an idea that surfaced, where the building can arrange or provide a dedicated space for students/staff to write/draw (ex: chalk, paper or index cards) and hang up their Unity messages.

Creating Teaching/Learning Opportunities

Below are resources to help facilitate discussion about racism, the impact of systematic racism, and the importance of inclusivity & diversity.

Books

Preschool Books: Books that promote Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Books promoting Unity: Elementary

5 Picture Books that Celebrate Unity

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Book List

Book lists on Diversity & Unity

The Joy of Unity (4:09)

Joy Sun Bear's friend Lily shares the idea of unity in an illustrated, fun and kid-friendly short video.

SWING | Kids Book Read Aloud about Sharing and Unity

a book about sharing and unity. When is an Alphabet book about MORE than the ABCs? In this brilliant story from the author of RED: A Crayon's Story, four letter’s keep trying to prove they're better and different from one another.

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Book List

Books for All Grades

Books that promote Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: ages 5-7 yrs

Books that promote Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: ages: 8-9yrs

Books that promote Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: ages 9-10yrs

Books that promote Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: ages 13-18 yrs

Activities and Lessons for all grades

Resources to elevate DEI learning in schools

Includes various lessons/activities, targeting K-12

Resources-for-creating-a-school-culture-of-empathy-inclusion-and-kindness

Embracing Diversity Activities/Lessons

10 Inclusion Based Activities for Students (K-8)