I am often maddened and saddened by the things I did not learn in school. But that's not very helpful, so instead I'll reflect that I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn more now. As a foster parent, I knew about ICWA, but I did not know that conservatives (and foster parents!) criticize and oppose the act. I also don't think I knew about why it was so important--that Native American children were taken from their families and adopted by white people so indiscriminately.
I had never heard of the bracero program, or of any of the ways in which Latinx immigrants were treated as "dirty." I appreciate the comparison to Nazi Germany. I think it's so important for us to look at and acknowledge our country's ugly side, too. It is so easy to criticize what has happened elsewhere. How will history look back at us? Will the accurate story be told? Or the whitewashed version?
I want to learn and help. That's why I'm here. I have privilege, I want to use my voice and my power to help those who society isn't yet listening to. I appreciate this opportunity to learn.
I am here for the same reason. Most of the historical information I am learning today I did not learn when I was in public school.
I also agree and want to learn more accurate descriptions of history.