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November 2025 Newsletter

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Black Educators – Rooted in Purpose, Powered by Love ❤️🖤💚<!–



The Great Fight: News and Views 


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November 2025 Affirmation

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Welcome to The Great Fight!

During the month of November, we want to express gratitude for the power of the village and community. 

We are thankful for the community of Black educators who pour wisdom, love, and culture into every classroom, positively impacting all the students they serve. Your work is so much more than teaching – it’s legacy building that shapes generations. 

As we are living through unprecedented times, community is needed now more than ever before. It truly does take a village to raise a child and to protect each other. If you know anyone who has lost access to grocery benefits, here is a link for Chicago based resources, and click the Mutual Aid Directory image below see more. 

Additionally, Seasonal Affective Disorder and loneliness can truly have an impact on your daily experience. We always encourage you to anchor yourself to joy, but this month, we also want to acknowledge the power of cultivating your own happiness. Check out the calendar below for more details. 

Lastly, but certainly not least, we are wishing a very Happy Veterans Day to all who served. We are truly thankful for your service.
 





In Power,
Brooke B., Co-Founder
Danielle Moneyham, Co-Founder
Lauren G., Community Builder

 

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“I knew where I was going by the time I was a child.”

Jess Vann, Educator, Actor, Performer, Program Manager

https://www.instagram.com/itsme.jessv/

https://www.jessvanncreates.com/

What’s the reform? What’s the restorative approach? What is White Savior Complex (besides the most annoying form of white supremacy)? What is anti-racism work? In this episode, we are joined by Educator Activist Jess Van, who shares her journey as Black girl developing an identity in Lansing, Michigan (“You are part of the African diaspora!”), encounters with racist teachers (and the residual effects), and why she fell in love with Chicago.

 

“It takes a village. The village cannot operate if we ain’t speakin the same language.”

 

What led Jess to begin a career supporting youth and building after school programming? Community Partnerships and establishing bridges, dismantling systems and shifting mindsets (“Black children can’t…”), and asset based community language are all topics of discussion. Tune in, as Jess speaks on how to build leadership skills and how to support the village the way the village needs to be supported. AND, a loving note to any establishment that doesn’t have our best interest at heart… “Keep Chicago out yo mouth!”

https://open.spotify.com/episode/23dog7M6H1NMCoDPjGIsnp?si=JF4BqImKR5-sf2_Ui8ue6Q

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Thank A Black Teacher: 
Would you like to #ThankABlackTeacher? Click here to submit your gratitude!

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Have an idea for a BEM Field Trip? Email Lauren and Sharon:             
BEMFieldTrips@gmail.com

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Lauren’s World

Fellow teachers, I’ve learned how to count my wins when I get them.
I loved having my extra hour of sleep, and I hope y’all did too. 

With everything happening in the world, I remind myself to not be dismayed. Instead, I choose to remain hopeful, grateful and thankful. Instead of focusing on watching the news and becoming triggered by what’s happening in our cities, communities and schools, I’ve started searching for glimmers – little things that instantly make me feel excited or happy. Once I started noticing them,
I couldn’t help but see the glimmers all around. 

I look forward to celebrating the upcoming fall break, watching the leaves change, and witnessing my students grow. 

So no matter what you’re going through, I encourage and challenge you to look for your own shining star – be it connecting with old friends, spending quality time with family, or enjoying your own company. As one of my favorite songs reminds us all… you can win… as long as you keep your head to the sky…
be optimistic! 

 

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Check Out our B.E.M. Merch!
Inspired by our conversations, designed for our community…
https://black-educators-matter.creator-spring.com/



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Black Educators Matter is a 501c3 organization.

Our goal is to create a community for Black educators worldwide,
where we center and celebrate Black educators.

Your donations support educator giveaways, special events, #ThankABlackTeacher initiatives, and the creation of our Project 500 Podcast.

Want to sponsor an initiative? Join Us!
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