By Karen Faass
Creativity + Social Change
University of
Connecticut
The Respect Quilt idea was brought to Cromwell Middle School to make an
awareness of how some people are treated and that all individuals want to be
accepted. This was a “hands-on” activity involving every 8th grade student. It
was the intent from the beginning to make this project student-driven. We
wanted all students to feel important and special in creating a piece of art
that brought a very serious message…respecting others. The students needed to
see that out of nothing (a blank quilt) so much can be accomplished if everyone
works together. Much beauty can occur and positive changes can happen ... they
are the leaders and ... they can “make a change."
This very concept was used as a medium in promoting another project entitled
Olweus. This program is designed to stop bullying and to bring an awareness of
the devastating effect it has on individuals. Implementing this program is a
continuation of the solidarity in our school community to “make a change."
The programs do not stop there…conversations are taking place to have
students make a video with regard to the Respect Quilt and “bullying” program.
Everyone is a part of this school community and, when working together, it
becomes healthier, stronger and cohesive for all. We can “make a change."
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
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i think this quilt idea is such a great way to teach young kids about having a helping hand, creativity, and the awareness of everyone being equal. it is a very simple way for young children to understand and visually see the change. the blank quilt is nothing, every child incorporates one thing and at the end, a quilt has evolved. i think this is extraordinarily great for children to see the stages of this awareness and experience it.
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