The white umbrella lesson plan is a lesson designed to teach students about diversity and inclusion. This lesson can be used in a variety of settings, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as in community centers and other educational settings.
The lesson begins by introducing the concept of the white umbrella. This umbrella represents the concept of privilege, which refers to the unearned advantages and benefits that some individuals have due to their social identities, such as race, gender, and class. These privileges often go unseen and unacknowledged, and can shape the experiences and opportunities available to individuals in significant ways.
Next, the lesson introduces the idea that everyone has their own unique umbrella of privilege, which is made up of different layers representing different aspects of their identity. For example, a person who is white, male, and able-bodied may have a larger umbrella of privilege than someone who is a person of color, female, and disabled.
The lesson then asks students to think about the ways in which their own umbrella of privilege has affected their lives and opportunities. This can be done through individual reflection or group discussion, and may involve asking students to consider things like the neighborhoods they grew up in, the schools they attended, and the kinds of jobs and career opportunities they have had.
After students have had a chance to reflect on their own privilege, the lesson then introduces the concept of allyship. Allyship involves actively working to recognize and challenge systems of oppression and to support and uplift marginalized groups. This can involve things like speaking out against discrimination, advocating for policies that promote equity and inclusion, and supporting organizations and movements that work to address social injustices.
The lesson concludes by asking students to consider ways in which they can use their own privilege and position of power to be allies and advocates for marginalized groups. This may involve joining organizations or groups that work on issues related to diversity and inclusion, or simply making an effort to listen and learn from the experiences of others.
Overall, the white umbrella lesson plan is a powerful way to teach students about the complex issues of privilege and allyship in a meaningful and engaging way. By helping students to understand their own privilege and the ways in which it shapes their lives and opportunities, and by encouraging them to become allies and advocates for marginalized groups, this lesson has the potential to make a lasting impact on the way students think about and engage with issues of diversity and inclusion.
