Representation Matter is a crucial book for teachers and others to equip them with the tools to understand the impact of race in education and promote diversity and inclusion to create positive and lasting change for students and staff.
The author of the book is Aisha Thomas, a former principal, campaigner and speaker. Thomas provides training on race in education at Universities, including Bristol, West of England and in schools nationwide. Alongside, presenting documentaries for BBC and BBC Teach.
The powerfulness of the book lies within the simplicity of the framework that Thomas uses for readers to develop anti-racist and inclusive practice. The use of her three headings ‘Reflecting and reviewing’, ‘Listening and decentering’ and ‘creating an action plan’ empowers readers to work systematically through the process and drive change.
Each chapter ends with a summary of key learning points, reflective questions, activities and discussion points. Representation Matter not only enables readers to start discussions, but most importantly it helps begin to turn theory into action.
Within the book Thomas shares her own lived experiences, alongside the voices of 20 external contributions from people who have been affected by the racism that is prevalent in the education system today.