The Road to Cultural Understanding Was Never So Much Fun…!
…So say Alex, Mathew and Josh, the narrators of Kaur Foundation's DVD, "Cultural Safari," a 17-minute video aimed at educating America's schoolchildren, teachers and school administrators about what it means to be a Sikh American.
This fast-paced program is a user-friendly introduction to the origins, history, festivals and holidays of Sikh Americans, and also provides background on their beliefs, practices and cultural traditions. Not merely a "video textbook," this DVD has action, too! Viewers get to meet a Sikh family, learn traditional greetings, watch a turban being tied, and even witness a live Vaisakhi festival complete with bhangra dancing! Indeed, anyone who watches "Cultural Safari" will come away knowing more about the Sikhs--and more likely wanting to learn even more!
Created as a way to build bridges of understanding between the Sikh American community and society at large, the Kaur Foundation's goal is to make "Cultural Safari" and its companion Teacher Resource Guide part of the social studies curriculum throughout the United States.
This resource is fast gaining acceptance in schools and counties nationwide as a simple and engaging educational tool. The Foundation has made many successful presentations before individual schools, local school boards and also the Maryland Department of Education's social studies coordinators.
Reviews of the DVD Are Already Coming in, and Feedback Is Great!
"Dear Kaur Foundation:
I'm grateful for your willingness to help us grow in the understanding of the Sikh culture…You did a great job in raising the awareness of the danger of ignorance as well as the urgent need to educate our young children…thank you for guiding us in this first step!"
---Florence Hu, Principal, Centennial Lane Elementary
Ellicott City, Md
"We no longer limit our view of cultural competency and awareness training for educators and administrators as accommodating the needs of culturally diverse groups. Rather, educators view it as valuable assistance in their goal of equipping students with knowledge essential to their successful development and participation in a world that is increasingly globalized."
---John Krownapple, Coordinator of Cultural Proficiency
Professional & Organizational Development
Howard County Public School System, Maryland
