The Equity Lab
Where we expand our ability to make sense of cultural differences and commonalities.
Intercultural competency is a driving force in bridging cultural differences and fostering an environment where everyone can belong, contribute and thrive.
The Equity Lab is a hub for equity-focused learning opportunities and one of the many ways Blake carries out its mission, core values and commitment to pluralism.
The lab is run by the Office of Equity and Community Engagement (OECE) whose vision is to lead, facilitate and support individual and school-wide efforts that foster a more equitable, inclusive and engaged community.
The Equity Lab makes sharing topics related to equity and inclusion accessible to everyone by offering and supporting lunch-and-learn sessions, after-school workshops, one-on-one discussions, critical friend groups, professional collaborations, webinars, community partnerships and more.
Call for Equity Lab Proposals
Alumni, parents, students, faculty and staff are invited to create a session for Blake's Equity Lab by completing a proposal form.
Successful session proposals will facilitate conversations that reflect Blake's commitment to pluralism and the OECE vision "to foster a more equitable, inclusive and engaged community."
Content should be based in research, model evidence-based practices, draw on personal mastery or reflective practice. Sessions should encourage attendees to continue exploring the subject area and inspire action.
Fall 2022 Equity Lab Experiences
Monday, Dec. 5, 7pm
Moon Palace Books, Minneapolis
A Reading of ‘The Marvellers’ by Dhonielle Clayton
Join this book reading tailored to ages 8-12 but all are welcome; face painting at 6pm. Author Dhonielle Clayton is the New York Times bestselling author of “The Marvellers” series, “The Belles” series, “Shattered Midnight” and others. She is a former elementary and middle school librarian.
Wednesday, Dec. 7, 5pm
Representation Matters: ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Movie and Discussion
Pre-movie presentation in the Bovey, Middle School, Hopkins campus and then 7pm movie at a local movie theater. Parents, guardians, faculty and students are invited to discuss the importance of representation in literature and media. Highcroft campus teacher librarian Ariana Hussain will begin the evening with a presentation. Blake will then provide participant transportation to a local movie theater and cover the cost of student tickets. The movie is rated PG-13; guardian participation and attendance is mandatory for movie attendance for students 13 and under.
Friday, Dec. 9 at noon
Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 7pm., Zoom
Book Readings/Discussions on Race and Racism
Inspired by the Equity Lab’s “Talking to Children about Race and Racism” series, Blake parent Tasha Walvig offers an opportunity to continue the conversations started in the spring of 2021. The first book reading/discussion will be “My Grandmother’s Hands” by Resmaa Menakem. Part one will take place in person on Friday, Dec. 9 at noon in the Middle School on the Hopkins campus (room M203); part 2 will be via Zoom on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 7pm. Participants are welcome to attend one or both readings/discussions. RSVP
Spring 2023 Equity Lab Experiences
Thursday, March 16, 7pm CST
‘The Walk’ with Nick Tucker: Virtual Event
While searching for purpose, Nick Tucker felt called to walk across America with his best friend doing as much good as possible to inspire unity from coast to coast. Through funny and intriguing stories from his time on the road in 16 states, Nick reveals what he discovered about humanity and how overcoming any challenge can be accomplished one step at a time. All Blake community members are invited to this Equity Lab virtual presentation. Register here