Our Educators
"I am a teacher in Prince Georges County Public Schools. I always knew since I was young that I wanted to bring change to our world and being a teacher was the best way to make that happen. While taking a walk and listening to a podcast about Madam CJ Walker, I thought about how I can bring change not just for my students, but for OUR community. This project will allow me to bring change, however small, and create a more peaceful world for my students. I hope you use our bookmarks to read our recommended literature as you learn about the injustices that Black Americans face in the United States. #BlackLivesMatter"
-Nahl Ilyas
"Each of us has a daily responsibility to combat systemic racism and build a caring, understanding community—whether that be in our neighborhood, workplace, or social circles. As a high school English teacher I find it even more necessary to encourage constant learning; we must ensure that our students, and in turn, our greater communities encounter a diversity of voices through literature. Our words—or the absence of our words—are powerful so participating in this project and the selection of quotes you're encountering is a humbling experience." -Patrick Gleason
"Recent events have once again brought racial injustice to the forefront of America's conscience. I am a lifelong resident of Prince George's County, Maryland, a product of its public schools, and a current teacher and coach in the county. All phases of my life have been shaped by the black community around me. Yet, in 2020, we continue to live in a country choking on the racial injustices woven into every facet of our society. To begin to dismantle this fabric that seeks to suffocate an intricate part of our society, we must say and do more. BLM Bookmarks is a project which allows me to take part in emphasizing the importance education will play in finally allowing Black Americans to freely live and breathe as they choose." -Ian Gleason
"As a South Asian teenager growing up in America, i’ve never felt afraid of the police. Quite frankly, the police have always made me feel safer. Unfortunately this is not the case with any of my black peers. I’m disgusted that this is the America we live in. However, one of the best ways to avoid racist ideologies is through education. With blm bookmarks, I have the opportunity to encourage people to read more about the constant racial injustices black people in face. As Martin Luther King said 'Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.'" -Sarah Suleman
"This time is heavy but we can’t just stop now. Collectively, we can make America better. Police brutality is just one form of racist manifestation. There are an overwhelming number of resources to continue educating yourself on this matter! Read books! Watch documentaries! And most importantly have those tough conversations. We all are powerful and each of our voices can make a difference. Let’s continue this momentum by donating our time and money for this enormous cause. I am truly honored to be a part of this project to bring awareness for the importance of education in times like this. I hope you will join us in supporting the Black Lives Matter movement! No justice, no peace. Never stop fighting." -Ideliya Ahmad
"I live in America and I'm not proud. It has failed society by the unjust actions that are against the Black Community. What happened to 'liberty and justice for all?' Why is oppression still occurring against the black community? If people don't start a change in their hearts, then there can't be a change in America. I believe that a great way to begin that change is through reading. Read about the importance of equality, read about the history of America. Learn. Being a part of BLM Bookmarks means I get to help spread the importance of reading and learning about racial discrimination. We will NOT give up until we see change. Black lives matter." -Saima Ahmad
