WELCOMING OUR IMMIGRANT STUDENTS: Using Folklore to Bridge the Gap in Multicultural Classrooms

Abstract

The United States is a country historically made up of immigrants. Our shores have been a beacon of hope to travelers from all over the world and today is no different. The U.S. borders are flooded with people trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. Whether they are chasing the “American dream” or escaping violence and poverty in their home country, they come to the United States seeking hope and change. Sadly, we live in a time where immigration is at the forefront of news and not always portrayed in a positive light. Our students see this anger and negativity. These influences seep into our classrooms where immigrant students can often feel alienated instead of welcomed. We must create an atmosphere in our classroom that embraces students from all over the world through a curriculum of multicultural celebration. Folklore provides a powerful tool to highlight the many similarities we have as cultures - and human beings - instead of underlining what divides us.