National Black Child Development Institute

Thank you to all Virtual Learning Series attendees for joining our insightful discussion! Repost and share this social card across your networks to use your voice and spread awareness about inequitable access to the internet. Tag us when you share and educate others!

One day until our July Virtual Learning Series! Join us tomorrow at 12:00 p.m. EST to hear from Leah Austin, EdD alongside Jalen Taylor, Winston Roberts, and Dr. Kiesha King on the intersection of ethical #AI use and the education of Black children. Register here: https://bit.ly/4eN1BUl

We are proud to highlight the work of Sajdah Asmau a #PublicVoicesFellow of NBCDI in partnership with The OpEd Project! Published in EdSource, Sajdah’s article, “As we expand universal preschool access, let’s ensure teachers mirror their students’ ethnicity,” emphasizes the importance of diversifying the teacher workforce. As California expands universal preschool access, the need for racially representative early childhood educators becomes crucial. Research indicates Black boys are disproportionately monitored for misbehavior and face higher expulsion rates due to implicit biases and exclusionary discipline. Studies also show that students perform better academically and face fewer disciplinary issues when taught by teachers of the same racial background. The California Department of Education has introduced new policies to reduce suspensions and expulsions in state-funded programs, but these regulations do not apply to all preschools. Read more here: https://bit.ly/4bTl9Uu

How do we teach our kids to spot implicit bias? Educators, nonprofit leaders and tech innovators will explore the need to ensure Black children have access to technology and how we must protect them from the potential harms of #AI when it is created with negative bias or without them in mind during our Virtual Learning Series this Thursday at noon. Register to be part of the conversation: https://bit.ly/4eN1BUl

Join us in celebrating our valued partner, Raising a Reader, on their 25th anniversary! For a quarter of a century, Raising a Reader has been dedicated to fostering early literacy and empowering families to build strong reading habits. Their commitment to providing children with books that reflect their diverse identities and experiences aligns with NBCDI’s Representation outcome. We are grateful for Raising a Reader's unwavering support in helping children see themselves in their books and toys. Together, we continue to move the needle toward a future where every child feels represented and valued. Congratulations on 25 years!

Happy Nelson Mandela Day! 🌍 Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to justice continues to inspire us all. Mandela’s story exemplifies the ideals of Afrofuturism where equality and liberation prevail. Mandela's pursuit of equality transcended existing barriers, inspiring us to challenge existing norms and envision thriving futures for black children across the world. Join us in celebrating Nelson Mandela's legacy and embracing the Afrofuturist spirit of envisioning a future where every child's dreams can flourish. Together, let's carry forward Mandela's journey toward a more just and equitable world. #NelsonMandelaDay

Don’t miss our July Virtual Learning Series! The impactful discussion, “An Exploration of Ethics in AI and Its Impact on Black Children,” led by educators, nonprofit leaders, and tech innovators, will dive into the intersection of ethical #AI use and address historical disparities, and biases in technology. In partnership with BCDI-Colorado, ISTE and KIPP New Jersey, Leah Austin, EdD, President and CEO of NBCDI, alongside our board member Dr. Kiesha King of T-Mobile, Jalen Taylor from BCDI-Colorado, and Winston Roberts from KIPP NJ, will share insights and explore the critical role of emerging technology and digital inclusion in shaping a safer and more equitable environment for Black Children! Join us next Thursday, July 25 at 12:00 p.m. EST: https://bit.ly/4eN1BUl

Families face a rise in childcare demands and expenses during the excitement of summer activities. For many, Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care emerges as a crucial lifeline. This form of childcare is often the sole option as well as the most culturally affirming and affordable choice for many communities of color. However, despite its importance, FFN caregivers often operate without adequate financial support. This disparity underscores the urgent need for policies and initiatives that recognize and empower FFN caregivers. Join us in support of FFN caregivers across the country by calling for the financial support they deserve, ensuring every family can access affordable and culturally affirming childcare options during the summer and beyond. Read more here: https://bit.ly/46lIhKp

Introducing Janelle Williams, the Director of Conference and Events at NBCDI. With over seven years of expertise in experiential storytelling, Janelle has a proven track record of crafting and executing event strategies for Fortune 100 corporations, leading lifestyle brands, and meaningful social initiatives. Her extensive background in hospitality, event management, and experiential marketing, coupled with her experience at a leading global tech company, provides her with a unique perspective on creating comprehensive and impactful experiences. At NBCDI, Janelle is set to reimagine the future of convenings by integrating innovation, intentionality, immersive experiences, and authentic storytelling. Her leadership will ensure that NBCDI’s events are not only memorable and impactful but also foster meaningful connections and truly use Afrofuturism as a guide.

This month’s Virtual Learning Series, “An Exploration of Ethics in AI and Its Impact on Black Children,” focuses on the intersection of ethical #AI use and the education of Black children. Listen as Leah Austin, EdD, President and CEO of NBCDI, talks about the complexities and critical tensions of ensuring Black children have access to technology and how we can protect them from the potential harms of AI when it is created with negative bias or without them in mind. Join us next Thursday, July 25 at 12:00 p.m. EST as educators, nonprofit leaders and tech innovators Dr. Leah Austin alongside our board member Dr. Kiesha King of T-Mobile, Jalen Taylor from BCDI-Colorado, and Winston Roberts from KIPP New Jersey explore the critical role of emerging technology and digital inclusion in shaping a safer and more equitable environment for Black Children! Register in advance: https://bit.ly/4eN1BUl