GeoNews of the Day: A Better Tomorrow

A Better Tomorrow

A local teenager named Weam Ibrahim from Nova Scotia recently took the initiative to send a letter out to the staff and administers of Halifax West High School following the Quebec Mosque shooting, regarding the sensitive topic of racism. Like many, the shooting came as a shock to her and one that was “too close to home”. An issue like the shooting does not occur very often, especially in Canada.

The letter addressed the importance of open discussion and requested that the teachers took five minutes out of their day to discuss with their class the importance of racism. She emphasized in her letter how open discussion will help students achieve essential skills needed in their future careers such as respect and open-mindedness. The impact Weam has made on her school will certainly last as students speak about the issues as well as listen to the perspectives of individuals who have specifically been victims of racism.

 

  

Although it may not be the most popular topic of conversation, racism is one that must be discussed and by sending this letter, Weam is not only helping raise awareness of the issue to her peers, but she is also raising awareness of an issue that does not “affect many of the teachers directly”.

  

Weam’s ultimate goal of raising awareness will provoke her peers to respect different cultures and treat them as equals, allowing other people to be more open-minded. By creating students who excel in these areas, they will be accepting and respectful in the workplace, ultimately creating “global citizens” who strive to make the world a better place.