Students Grapple with the Tragic Shooting of Their Classmate’s Father by Police

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In the wake of a tragic event, students at a Tulsa school found themselves struggling to comprehend the shooting of their classmate’s father at the hands of police. This heart-wrenching incident involved a 40-year-old man, Marcus Ellis, who was unarmed and had his hands raised when he was shot. The officer involved has faced charges of first-degree manslaughter.

Rebecca Smith, a teacher at Kipp Tulsa College Prep where Ellis’s daughter attends, organized small group discussions to create a safe space for students to express their feelings. In her Facebook post, she shared her hope that others would try to understand the perspective of children of color in Tulsa.

Emotional Reactions Across Age Groups

During these discussions, the reactions varied by age group. The fifth graders were particularly emotional, shedding tears and asking poignant questions like, “Why were they scared of him?” and “What will [his daughter] do at father-daughter dances?” Meanwhile, the sixth graders, who were classmates of Ellis’s daughter, sat in stunned silence, grappling with their shock. Smith, who is white, took the moment to affirm their worth, saying, “We have different skin colors. I love you. You matter. You are worthy.” This moment of validation highlighted the harsh reality that many children of color face.

The seventh and eighth graders, aged thirteen and fourteen, brought a different energy to the discussion. They expressed anger and frustration, with some refusing to engage with the news article about the incident. One student even stated she felt like punching someone, a reflection of their hardened perspective shaped by societal injustices. As Smith observed, these young boys, now taller and stronger, were no different from many young black men who have faced violence, like Tamir Rice and Paul O’Neal.

The Emotional Journey of Black Children

Through these conversations, Smith illustrated the emotional journey of black children in America—from innocent confusion about violence to a stark understanding that race plays a role in their treatment by society. She emphasized the importance of using privilege to advocate for change and urged those with similar advantages to speak out and commit to loving fiercely.

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Conclusion

In summary, the reactions of students to a tragic shooting reveal the complexities of growing up as a child of color in America. Their responses range from innocence to anger, illustrating the deep impact of societal issues on young lives. It’s a poignant reminder of the urgent need for understanding and action in the face of racial injustice.