Kira Thomas

New York Institute of Technology

Professor:  Daniel Cinotti

Tatum Reaction Paper

 
 Although several steps have been taken in schools to eliminate racism and inequality

some things remain unchanged. Why are all the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria by

Beverly Daniel Tatum illuminates Black families in White communities and exposes the decision

making of adolescents and adolescent development as it relates to racial identity theory

providing insight to school counselors. While highlighting racial identity in education, the book

provides insight as to how school counselors can advocate for academic equality while

navigating the sensitivity of racial identity and education. 

Tatum used racial identity theory to explain how adolescents think about themselves in

terms of race will influence their behavior. Unfortunately, it appears developmentally

appropriate when the football team, or cheerleaders sit together, typically  no one asks  why are

the football players sitting together in the cafeteria or why are the cheerleaders sitting together? 

We don’t typically ask that question because we understand that developmentally it’s appropriate

to be with people who have like interests and they don’t have to explain their inside jokes. This

also applies to the Black kids especially in predominantly White environments. Sitting together

avoids questions explaining things about their hair texture or an interaction they may have had

with a teacher or a classmate. When sitting together they are accepted. Strong racial identity

doesn’t eliminate the challenges of being a teenager, but from a psychological perspective this

particular grouping of students is understood. 

Tatum in her revised edition of the book nearly 15 years later identifies several potential

influences on racial identity.  Tatum weaved historical information into the beginning of the

book, thus framing and highlighting the transformation and stagnation of American culture,

while proving the strength of Black people when they stand together with other like-minded

individuals. Racism is prevalent in many arenas including political commentary, communal

actions, and education. Monumental changes in American history including the election of the

first President of Color, Barack Obama, the rise of colorblind racial ideology, influences of the

rhetoric of President Trump, social media and the Black Lives Matter movement have influenced

racial identity among other historic events.  It was made clear by Tatum that triumphs were met

with challenges and sacrifices. Electing the first Person of Color as President, President Barack

Obama, showed the American divide. President Obama’s statement following the acquittal of

George Zimmerman further spotlighted the differentiated American experience of African

Americans and provided ammunition for his opponents. To many, Blacks are still considered

inferior academically, criminals, and unwanted. Students self-segregate as they feel more

comfortable with their “own kind.” Laws and perspectives have changed and it is more common

to discuss and protest one’s feelings of discrimination, racial equality in schools has increased.  

Diversity is attainable. Current developmental models include gender identity, religion,

sexual orientation, and racial identity. How we make sense of our identities influences our

conversations and interactions. These influences shape our society and our decisions. Tatum does

a great job of showing the relevance of racial identity theory. Racial identity theory can assist in

understanding oneself and understanding other people. Ignoring inequality does not allow

students to learn empathy or to understand and acknowledge the unique experiences of others. 

Racial identity theory is useful in advocating for students. It is essential in primarily

homogenous communities as well as diverse communities. Racial identity affects student

academic achievement. As a future counselor and an advocate  for student academic

achievement, understanding a student’s self identity is paramount in determining the influences

behind their interactions with their peers as well as with their teacher and school community.

Racial identity influences everyone. School counselors can evaluate the application of their
student’s self-identity in the student’s everyday life. Racial identity influences the families’

interests in academic and career pursuits. As a future school counselor, I would be sure to

address the student’s options while being culturally sensitive, but also exploring with the student

the students’ skills and interests beyond restriction of racial identity. As a future school

counselor my goal will remain to advocate for equity of services and application for all students

regardless of their racial identity.

This book was an excellent introduction to racial identity theory. Racial identity can also

be applied to determine the effectiveness of the counselor-student relationship, the school

counselor role as a student mentor and as a leader in an academic setting. Informing and assisting

in eliminating racism and inequality in the academic setting is a unique aspect of the School

counselor responsibility. Identifying and creating informative lessons that educate community

member’s parents and stakeholders regarding the influences of racial identity is crucial. School

counselors must advocate and emphasize the importance of teaching students about racial

identity and how it affects everyone. As racism is not as overt in the decades prior, school

counselors may need to demonstrate the daily impact of systemic and covert racism in order to

substantiate its relevance in communities that appear unaffected. Defining, identifying, and

illuminating racism and its effects with students can be a first step. Implementing a

comprehensive approach to promote acceptance and respect for cultural, ethnic and racial

differences is necessary for systematic progress in the school building. School counselors must

consider the community served and allow students to demonstrate an understanding and empathy

for the students affected by discrimination. Collaboration with the entire school community is the

best approach. I have learned that if students do not understand that racism exists they will not

realize how it impacts them. Open dialogue about race, racism and racial identity is important.
 America will benefit if all children regardless of racial or economic status are provided

the tools to reach their full academic potential.  Tools and policies like universal preschool,

extra-curricular activities, access to daycare and quality teachers will assist those disadvantaged.

Additional resources including the access to books at home, neighborhood safety, adequate

healthcare, and affordable housing are especially beneficial to low income and minority families.

Change in policies and procedures in and outside the classroom will decrease the achievement

gap between minority and low-income students and their more advantaged peers assisting them

in earning the credentials to secure adequate and progressive employment. These changes are

necessary for America to live up to its melting pot identity and its greatest potential.