Showing importance of diversity through mirrors, windows, and sliding doors.

 Miller, Tiffany.

What Are Mirrors and Windows? - WeAreTeachers. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.weareteachers.com/mirrors-and-windows/

Summary:

    Stories are used to act as mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors. It is important for mirrors (seeing ourselves) in stories to have a sense/feeling of belonging and that we are not alone. Windows (seeing others) are important to develop an understanding about the wider world and may be the only experience we have with differences in culture, skin color, religion, lifestyles, and more. It is very important for the introduction to be one of non-judgment and supportive acceptance. Sliding glass doors are a newer concept expanding on windows. The door allows the reader to walk into a story and become part of the world. This encourages reflection and action in hopes of changing perspectives.

Review:

    I love this concept as it is easy to visualize and grasp the difference. This refers to using it with children in a classroom but is the exact reason everyone needs to be represented in a the library and in stories. It is a quick way to explain to children and adults why it is important for diversity in our books in all the different ways, not just race. There is a list of books for different topics of DEI that would be good to have in your library. It also includes some books to further deepen your understanding of these concepts. I like how it talks about not just thinking of windows and doors in terms of literacy. We are trying to get more events/programs centered around more than just the majority population by celebrating different holidays or showcasing different cultures. Just a great article to introduce windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors that all librarians need to remember.