Jane Elliot's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Jane Elliott is an American educator and schoolteacher famous for her groundbreaking work in the field of diversity and racism. Born in 1933 in Riceville, Iowa, Elliott began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse in a small town. It was during this time that she developed her famous "Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes" exercise, in which she divided her students based on their eye color to teach them about prejudice and discrimination.

Elliott's exercise gained national attention when she implemented it with her third-grade class the day after Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. By dividing her students based on their eye color, Elliott created a microcosm of society in which the blue-eyed children were given special treatment and privileges, while the brown-eyed children were discriminated against. This exercise had a profound impact on her students, and the documentary "The Eye of the Storm" was made about the experience. This documentary brought Elliott's work to a wider audience and sparked discussions about racism and prejudice in classrooms and beyond.

Elliott has continued to be a vocal advocate for diversity and equality throughout her career. She has appeared on numerous talk shows and documentaries, including "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and the documentary "A Class Divided." In these appearances, Elliott has continued to educate the public about the impact of discrimination and the importance of confronting prejudice. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the National Mental Health Association Award for Excellence in Education.

Elliott's work has extended beyond the classroom, as she has been a sought-after speaker and diversity trainer for businesses, organizations, and government agencies. She has also conducted workshops and presentations on racism and prejudice in countries around the world, using her "Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes" exercise as a powerful tool for teaching empathy and understanding. Her impact on the field of diversity and equality cannot be overstated, as she has inspired countless educators, activists, and leaders to confront racism and work towards a more inclusive society.

In addition to her work as an educator, Elliott has also been a prolific author, writing several books on the topics of diversity and prejudice. Her books, including "A Class Divided: Then and Now" and "White Lies," have continued to educate and inspire readers to confront their own prejudices and work towards a more equitable society. Elliott's powerful message and impactful work have made her a leading voice in the fight against racism and discrimination.

Elliott's legacy continues to inspire educators and activists to address prejudice and discrimination in their communities. Her "Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes" exercise remains a powerful tool for fostering empathy and understanding, and her work has sparked important conversations about race and equality in classrooms and beyond. With her passionate advocacy and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, Jane Elliott has left an indelible mark on the field of education and social justice. Her work serves as a reminder that each of us has a role to play in creating a more equitable and compassionate world.