BC Waldorf Collective Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
BC Waldorf Schools have, since their inception, espoused principles of respect for human rights and the diversity of humankind. Today, all BC Waldorf schools continue to define diversity as a range of racial identifications, ancestries, nationalities, native languages, socioeconomic backgrounds, family structures, ages, belief systems, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, appearances, occupations, and political affiliations. Enhancing our diversity is a journey of both moral and educational importance and a learning and growth experience for all.
As members of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) we are responsible for participating in collaboratively creating Association statements, guidelines, and principles. In so doing we agree to the AWSNA “Statement of Equity and Racial Justice” and all Principles for Waldorf Schools. We share both the Statement and Principle #8 below as a reflection of our Declaration:
AWSNA Statement of Equity and Racial Justice
The Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) recognizes the historic and ongoing impact of racism on our continent and the injustice and discrimination faced by Black, Brown, Indigenous and People of Color. We understand that racial justice in education is a journey of both moral and educational imperative. As such, we take seriously our responsibility to bear witness to what is happening in the world, to center the voices of color in justice work, and to change the course of inequities by identifying and breaking down structural racism in all forms within Waldorf education.
We acknowledge that Rudolf Steiner, founder of Waldorf education (1919), offered many profound insights that support the value and dignity of each human being and form the foundation of our organization’s histories and worldview. Yet, he also made statements that reflect harmful assertions regarding race and ethnicity. Racism, explicit or implicit, stands in direct conflict to the fundamental principles of Waldorf education. We commit to working to address any dehumanizing or disparaging aspects of our history and practices.
Advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is one of the compelling forces behind AWSNA’s strategic priorities. These priorities are central to our work and aim to bring us closer to the world that we want for our youth.
We know that we have far to go as an association and as individuals in our understanding of racial oppression and social justice. Please join us by elevating your own commitment to social renewal and transformation.
AWSNA Principles for Waldorf Schools
Principle #8.
WALDORF SCHOOLS HONOR AND EMBRACE HUMAN DIVERSITY AND DIGNITY.
Waldorf schools pursue a path of human dignity, social justice, and equity in organizational, leadership, and pedagogical realms. Recognizing this path is one of spiritual, moral, and educational importance, schools celebrate the diversity of humankind. Schools are engaged in understanding and addressing the current and historical contexts of marginalization. These endeavors are rooted in Waldorf education’s founding vision, which included addressing contemporary social struggles within the context of the life of the school.
Feedback is warmly welcome regarding this Declaration through the contact page on this website.
August 2024