Racism is also present in ECE through the white cultural dominance of education. The cultural norms are white, Christian, middle class, heterosexual and abled. When Black children, Indigenous children, and children of color behave outside of these norms they are seen as “at risk,” deviant, deficit and needing intervention and correction.

It is time to let go of the good/bad binary when thinking about and discussing race. Racist behavior can be done by any white person, not just a self-proclaimed white supremacist. As you build your awareness of how racism is systemic and institutionalized, you can join with and be accountable to people of color to change policies and practices.