Before Racism

Overview

Before Racism is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing racism and bias in early childhood. Its focus is on developing educational programs for children between one and five years old, aiming to address and prevent the formation of racial biases from an early age.

Mission

The organization's mission is grounded in the belief that early intervention is crucial in shaping societal attitudes toward race. By targeting young children, Before Racism seeks to ensure that the seeds of racial bias do not take root. This approach emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive environments where children learn to appreciate and respect diversity.

Programs

Before Racism launched its first pilot programs in several childcare centers in Minnesota and Massachusetts. These programs include educational curricula designed to help young children understand and value diversity. The initiative also provides free training for childcare and preschool teachers over several months, equipping them with strategies to promote inclusivity and address racism.

Expansion Plans

The organization plans significant expansion, with the goal of introducing its curriculum to preschools and childcare centers across the United States. Over the next decade, Before Racism aims to reach 25 million children annually.

Funding

Before Racism relies on donations to fund its operations and educational programs. In its early years, the organization raised nearly $400,000 and continues to seek additional funding to support its national expansion.

Leadership

Led by an all-volunteer team, Before Racism is headed by Bill Svrluga, who is driven by a commitment to social justice and a desire to address the systemic roots of racism. Svrluga's experience includes participating in the historic Selma-to-Montgomery civil rights march and founding other social justice initiatives.

Impact

Initial evaluations by the Wilder Foundation indicate that the program has been effective in educating childcare staff about preventing bias in young children. The organization also aims to engage parents through a toolkit designed to facilitate discussions about race and diversity at home. Advisory board members, such as Dianne Haulcy, emphasize the importance of early conversations about race to help children become comfortable with these discussions as they grow older.