In our current world, it is not enough to simply be against discrimination. 

As an educator, I believe that it is crucial to take an active role in developing pedagogy that has diversity, equity, and inclusion woven into all aspects of the learning process. 

This means that diversity should not be viewed as something that needs to be included, but instead should be at the forefront while developing materials through equitable practices. 

With this as my conceptual framework, I strive to begin any new task with inclusion as the first step prior to the development of any materials for the classroom or in my own research. 

The experiences and identities that each of us hold have a crucial impact in shaping our practices both personally and professionally. I am committed to developing self-awareness of my own conscious and unconscious biases because they are fundamental to who I am as a person, and how I connect with others. In my profession as an educator, my personal experiences impact not only how I structure my courses, but how I create inclusivity in my classroom through my teaching methods, chosen materials and mentorship approach. 

Regardless of what is being said by our current administration, I stand with DEI, especially as it relates to individuals coming from populations that have historically & consistantly marginalized in our society. 

As an educator, some of my guiding principles include:

1. Using an equity framework

2. Establishing a foundation of dignity & respect

3. Building connections with students

4. Straightforwardness & honesty in lessons & evaluation

5. Blending both history & real-world application into materials

6. Encouraging critical thinking skills

7. End goal is to understand rather than rote memorization

8. Constantly soliciting feedback from students & using their feedback to adjust coursework in real-time