5 minute read
Building Bridges Through Books: The Journey of Books 4 Cultural Competence in Enhancing Diversity
BY Judy Shi
B4CC High School Student Leader & City of Issaquah Resident
In Washington state, a dynamic team has been contributing to cultural education since 2021. The team at Books 4 Cultural Competence (B4CC) includes Dr. Yanfang Su, a Harvardeducated assistant professor at the University of Washington and founder of Mandarin Playground; Mrs. Yingying Gao, an enthusiastic Chinese educator; Mrs. Chen Ding; and Mrs. Laura Ni. They are nurturing mothers. Each contributes unique expertise to this impactful initiative, blending maternal insight with a commitment to positive change.
Discovering B4CC as a high schooler has been like uncovering hidden gems that lead to the foundation of our society. From hosting camps to exploring the fascinating bits of different cultures, every moment has been like finding a new puzzle piece: I loved every part of it! B4CC's mission is simple yet profound: to enhance cultural competence in the K-12 community. They believe that by offering books showcasing diverse stories and experiences, they're helping to forge a more empathetic and understanding society. The B4CC team focuses on deepening cultural awareness and identity, emphasizing the importance of connecting with, respecting, and learning from diverse traditions.
Since its inception in 2021, B4CC has made remarkable strides. Hosting events, engaging over fifty volunteers, and donating many culturally rich books to classrooms and libraries across school districts. Their efforts are commendable. Through continuous book drives, school outreach, summer camps, and curriculum development, B4CC fosters opportunities for children to explore and appreciate societal diversity.
Each step of B4CC's journey reflects deep community involvement, from initiating book drives to establishing afterschool classes and online book clubs. B4CC was honored to receive the community fund from a program of United Chinese Association (UCA). Their collaboration during the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in 2021 kickstarted the book drive. Since then, there have been countless engagements, community funds, educator grants, and impactful summer retreats. The collaboration with the Issaquah Schools Foundation has been transformative. Two summers of vibrant camps, student-led initiatives, and collaborative curriculum design have significantly impacted students, teachers, and high schoolers seeking to contribute to their communities.
What’s been the real cherry on top you ask? The connections, of course! Through the events, it’s like stumbling upon a family of students and teachers who share the same passion for embracing diversity. Those friendships and bonds have turned this journey into an absolute joy! Personally, I have had a unique experience with B4CC as a part of the student leadership team. Through the curriculum planning project, specifically, I connected with students from other local high schools. I made a lot of friends and created astonishing projects with them.
Highlighting the power of youthful enthusiasm and dedication, what was unique and amazing in many of the B4CC projects was that the students drove the initiative, ranging from online book clubs to curriculum development. Brilliantly, a new after-school program was added to the SnoSprings School in Issaquah! The program leverages curricula developed by local high school students and teachers under a flagship B4CC project.
As B4CC looks to the future, it aims to spotlight AfricanAmerican culture and embrace a variety of world cultures, further bridging understanding across diverse communities. This whole experience for me has been a personal journey of self-discovery painted with the colors of curiosity and an eagerness to understand the world better. Through planning and attending events, what really stuck with me are those moments of quiet reflection. It’s like sitting back and diving into the stories behind each cultural root. This journey has been a bridge—connecting me not just to diverse cultures but to a community that celebrates and cherishes these differences. It’s a reminder that true understanding doesn’t just come from textbooks; it comes from shared experiences and stories. And in B4CC, I found this sense of understanding.
Books 4 Cultural Competence transcends its name. It's a collective and inclusive endeavor that paves the way for a diverse and understanding future. B4CC stands as a testament that learning about different cultures extends beyond textbooks—it's about sharing stories, experiences, and celebrating the richness of diversity. This is an invitation to join a transformative journey and be a part of meaningful change. B4CC has been a significant change for me personally. It’s fueled my empathy, expanded my horizons, and made me literally fall head over heels for the incredible mix of cultures we’re surrounded by!
As the Lunar New Year approaches, B4CC will once again contribute to community celebrations by bringing its books and engaging activities. We encourage everyone to stop by and participate in these events, offering an enriching experience for all. Wishing everyone a joyous and prosperous New Year!
