![GSB Hosts Fifth Annual Middle School Equity and Inclusion Summit]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1731527487/gsbschoolorg/mljirp7fyqz5vxdgbqyg/MSEISnewsrotation.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1731527487/gsbschoolorg/mljirp7fyqz5vxdgbqyg/MSEISnewsrotation.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1731527487/gsbschoolorg/mljirp7fyqz5vxdgbqyg/MSEISnewsrotation.jpg","width":800}])
Gill St. Bernard's School successfully hosted over 100 students and faculty from eight independent schools at its fifth annual Middle School Equity and Inclusion Summit on October 26. This year’s theme was You. Me. WE. Embracing Identity and Empowering Voices to Build Harmonious Communities. The event featured a keynote presentation by Simon Tam, a renowned author, musician, activist, and founder of The Slants, the world's first all-Asian American dance rock band.
Tam's inspiring presentation with his bandmate Joe X. Jiang focused on the importance of embracing one's cultural identity, even in the face of adversity. He shared his personal journey through original songs and visual media about reclaiming the term "slant," historically used as a derogatory slur, and turning it into a symbol of empowerment. The Supreme Court sided with The Slants in a unanimous decision in 2017. Tam emphasized the significance of reappropriating stigmatized terms and challenging negative stereotypes.
The summit provided a platform for students to engage in meaningful discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants explored the complexities of identity, the impact of social context on self-perception, and the importance of open communication in fostering understanding.
Kerissa Woods '29, a GSB student, expressed her enthusiasm for the summit, stating, "The summit held a very empowering message to all participants. Simon Tan showed how important it is to speak up for your rights." She continued, “The summit was a great way to bond with other students across our regional area. Overall, the summit was an amazing experience, and I would like to participate again."
Clarence Wu '26, a GSB Upper School student facilitator, shared his insights on the event, emphasizing the impact of Tam's speech and the importance of embracing diverse identities. “One key insight I gained is the power of representation and open conversations in fostering inclusion. Simon’s story and the discussions at the forum made me deeply reflect on creating an inclusive environment where people feel genuinely understood and valued, and on the importance of embracing and celebrating cultural differences.”
The Middle School Equity and Inclusion Summit continues to be an empowering platform for middle school students to explore these important issues.
