ABSTRACT
One of the introductory exercises during the Cultural Literacy Curriculum Institute (CLCI), "Steppingstones", invites participants to consider the events, people, or experiences that led them to their current understanding of racial awareness and their interest in culturally responsive teaching. The author teaches predominantly white students and continue to search for ways to meet the challenges involved. Students vary widely in their knowledge, experiences, and attitudes about race, gender, and religion. They may not have questioned their own racial experiences, and many hold a color-blind stance. The author remembers how long it has taken to grow into valuing herself as a white woman, and she welcome the students wherever they are in their journey. Students that have a more nuanced understanding still have much to learn. As the concept of cultural humility reminds us, responding to race, difference, or others requires lifelong learning.
