I used to have a tendency to rush through life. I struggled to slow down and be still. Celebration did not come easily as part of my vocabulary or practice. Yet, when I came across Lucille Clifton’s poem, “won’t you celebrate with me,” I felt an internal shift. Clifton’s words invited me to honor each day.
I will celebrate my birthday at the end of the month. This birthday feels special because I’ll enter a new decade. In honor of that, my goal is to raise $30,000 for Rethinking Schools during the month of May.
As I reflect on the people, places, and experiences that have shaped the past decade, Rethinking Schools has been integral to my growth and development. Whether it be a space to process and share my teaching stories, the ability to build relationships with educators all over the world, or the opportunity to help shepherd forward the future of an organization I love, Rethinking Schools came to me at a time when I was looking for a community. In its 37-year history, Rethinking Schools has withstood constant attacks on democratic education and has grown tremendously to reach over 50,000 people across the United States, Canada, and the world. Rethinking Schools reminds me that amid struggle, there is joy, hope, and love. It shows me that we are not alone in the fight for freer futures.
Won’t you celebrate with me Clifton’s reminder that every day something has tried to stop us and failed?
To celebrate with me, I’d love to invite you to:
- Join me for a virtual meet-and-greet on Wednesday, May 31st at 4 pm PT/6 pm CT/7 pm ET. My friend and comrade, Rethinking Schools editor, Jesse Hagopian, will facilitate a conversation with me so I can share more about my background and dreams for Rethinking Schools. I’ll also lead a mini-writing workshop where we will reflect on our dreams for the future and how we’re building that future every day.
- Donate to my fundraiser. Will you help me reach my goal of raising $30,000 by the end of the month?
Thank you for your continued support of Rethinking Schools. I am so glad you are a part of our community. Together, we can do so much to dream and create new possibilities.
With appreciation,
Cierra Kaler-Jones