MPS celebrates national Black Lives Matter Week of Action 2022

The Milwaukee community had opportunities to listen, learn, and share in the Black Lives Matter (BLM) narrative in order to bring about positive change. Leading off Black History Month in February, the national Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action, January 31– February 4, 2022, is designed to engage communities in discussions about the injustices of race, class, and gender.

Across the country, activities took place that focus on improving the school experience for students of color. Topics are adopted from the Black Lives Matter at School guiding principles that are based upon the Black Lives Matter movement. Learn more and read the guiding principles on the Black Lives Matter at School website.

Milwaukee Public Schools thanks its partners and sponsors for helping to host the week of events aligned to the BLM principles.

• Milwaukee Metropolitan Alliance of Black School Educators (MMABSE)
• MPS Department of Black & Latino Male Achievement
• Milwaukee Community Schools Partnership
• Milwaukee Teachers Education Association
• All events will be virtual and are free and open to the public. Registration is required to participate.
• Register for all Black Lives Matter Week of Action events at https://mpsmke.com/blmweeksignup

Monday, January 31, 2022, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Week of Action Kickoff

Author and scholar Decoteau J. Irby, Ph.D., focuses on creating and sustaining organizations that contribute to Black people’s self-determined well-being, development, and positive life outcomes. His book Stuck Improving: Racial Equity and School Leadership outlines practices that make schools better places for Black and Brown youth. Dr. Irby will share five essential resources and practices that school leaders and educators can implement to increase their racial knowledge, grow improvement, and create learning experiences and outcomes that demonstrate Black Lives Matter tenets. Participants are encouraged to wear Black Lives Matter or social justice apparel all day.

Tuesday, February 1, 2022, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Black Film Festival Conversation

Students will view films during the school day. Students, staff, and community participants will break into groups to discuss themes. Facilitators will engage group participants in a talk-back related to questions posed.

K – Gr. 2: Garrett’s Gift and Dancing in the Light
Gr. 3 – 5: Ruby Bridges
Gr. 6 – 8: The Watsons Go to Birmingham
Gr. 9 – 12: John Lewis: Good Trouble

Participants are encouraged to wear the colors of the Pan-African Flag (red, black, green).

Wednesday, February 2, 2022, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Intergenerational Panel Discussion

Listen to students and elders engage in a Q&A dialogue around relevant topics of race, equality, and the future of America. The audience can participate through Jam Board or Zoom chat. Participants are encouraged to wear apparel that represents an older or younger generation.

Thursday, February 3, 2022, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Historically Black Colleges & Universities and Greek Organizations

Engage with participants and learn about the background of Historically Black Colleges & Universities. Members of the Divine 9 Black Greek Organizations will share their experiences and benefits of being a member of these organizations. Participants are encouraged to wear college/university shirts or Greek paraphernalia.

Friday, February 4, 2022, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Student and Staff Talent Showcase

Watch students and staff from across the district battle it out for bragging rights for their school. Would you like to submit a video for the talent show? Submit your video on the registration page for BLM events. Videos were due Tuesday, January 26, 2022.