By Kinota Braithwaite, Anti-Racism and Anti-Bullying Youth Speaker
Bullying is not unique to Japanese schools; it can happen anywhere in the world. But as a resident of Japan and a parent raising children here, I feel a responsibility to contribute to making Japan a better place for all children, regardless of whether they are Japanese or from different backgrounds.
My daughter experienced bullying at her Japanese school because of her skin color. I have to say that I'm grateful that her principal, a Japanese educator who was both understanding and compassionate, stepped in to help.
I've witnessed firsthand the commitment of many Japanese educators working in the school system who go above and beyond to ensure a positive learning environment for their students. It's not an easy job, and I have immense admiration and respect for those who do it right.
When we brought issue of my daughter being bullied due to her skin colour to her principal's attention, his immediate response was one of disbelief and shock, "Skin color? He said "They're bullying her because of her skin color?" "Skin color? He said repeatedly.
Her school principal voiced unwavering disapproval and demanded that such behavior cease immediately. He took swift action by contacting the parents of the children responsible, instructing them to tell their children to stop. Without his intervention my daughter's life would have probably taken a turn for the worse. I have deep respect for him and truly value what he did for my daughter.
My daughter's fortunate experience however contrasts with the latest statistics on bullying and the many personal stories that I've heard from other parents whose children have faced bullying at Japanese schools, where the response may not have been as swift or effective.
My daughter's teacher, although unsure of how to address the complex issue of racial bullying, demonstrated her commitment to learning and growth.
She had never left Japan, could not speak English and had no idea how to address the problem of racism but in her defense she acknowledged that there was a gap in her understanding and expressed a willingness to educate herself to better support my daughter and prevent further instances of bullying which I have to respect.
This commitment to learning and growth is why we have embarked on the journey of creating books like "Mio The Beautiful,""Kei The True Friend," and "Mio's Wish,"
Our goal is to equip teachers within Japan and throughout the world with the necessary tools to foster improved classroom environments for their students.
Let's Start a Dialogue:
Principals and Teachers, I extend a heartfelt invitation to engage in open conversations. Together, let's address concerns, exchange ideas, and craft experiences that transcend. Let's embark on a journey to enrich minds and create a lasting positive impact on the lives of students.
Warm regards,
Kinota Braithwaite
A Vision for a World Free of Racism and Bullying
You're welcome to connect with me at www.learnwithkinota.com
Comments