Always, especially now, people need to examine and learn more about their identity in order to understand the identities of other people. This nurtures an understanding of other people, an understanding of their story, and helps surface the ways in which we are alike and difference. It is critical that we do this work in order to nurture a sense of belonging and dignity and humanity for all people. When engaging in identity exploration, people may start feeling uncomfortable with some of their thoughts and feelings. This is okay… it is part of our process that people go through as they grow in our identity. Meaningful learning often puts people outside their comfort zone. In this post, I want to explore some strategies to develop a sense of belonging.

One of the most important aspects of identity and equity is a sense of belonging and dignity. Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity recommends three specific strategies to nurture a sense of belonging:

1. Normalize belonging uncertainty. Everyone questions their belonging at different times in their lives, especially during times of change. We can help other others become aware of this commonality. Explain to people that it is normal to wonder about and reflect on your sense of belonging. Invite others to share stories about when they wondered if they belonged or when they felt a strong sense of belonging. As a teacher, I want to improve on asking students and colleagues what helps them feel a sense of belonging? This is different for each of us.
2. Share personal stories. Find and share stories that mirror what is going on in others’ lives. Share your stories. Stories help us see the humanity in others, and offer more than a “single story.” This helps avoid stereotypes and stereotype threat. Stories also stick in our memory and help build a memory of what others experience, in order to inform our future actions and words.
3. Continually affirm people. Affirm people’s identity, uniqueness, and strengths through words. Share books and materials that provide a positive representation of various identities. Lift voices of all our students, especially those who may have previously been silenced. There is nothing more powerful than feeling seen, heard, and understood.

In addition to the recommendations above, I would add to ask students’ families: what does belonging feel like to you? to your student? This builds relationship and trust, and enables us to work in partnership for the best learning experience for our students.

“We are driven by five genetic needs:
survival, love and belonging,
power, freedom, and fun.”
-William Glasser