ABSTRACT
Race and ethnicity are primary drivers of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging efforts because they are so frequently a source of bias, discrimination, social exclusion—as well as violence—for students. Educators need to pay particular attention when a student identifies as a person of color, that is, a member of a racial minority group. This identity has consequences—both positive and negative—for their mental health and wellbeing, as well as their feelings of belonging, self-esteem, and expectations. The foundation of our identity is shaped first by our experiences within our family. Students were instructed to put the identities they related to most in the inner circle and identities that were less important to them in the outer circle. Every school can establish policies and practices that promote positive racial and ethnic identities.
