“They Think in Black and White”: An Educator’s Call for Change in Schools
On March 20th, as part of our AntiRacism360 initiative, we spoke with a dedicated English teacher at a school in Cyprus to discuss racism, education and the evolving mindset of youth. The words shared were painted a picture of the challenges faced day to day life in schools.
This educator works with students aged 15 to 18—many of whom are working part-time jobs or are at risk of dropping out. The stigma of the school being “for problematic kids,” is a stereotype that already sets a tone of marginalization. But behind this label are complex realities: financial struggles, generational traumas, and systemic racism that shape young people’s worldviews long before they ever step foot in a classroom.
The Rise of Intolerance and the Influence of Online Echo Chambers
The teacher described shock at the sheer volume of racist and homophobic statements that now enter classroom discussions unprovoked. “Tell me something you like and something you hate,” students were once asked— met with response “I hate gays”. It wasn’t even related to the lesson; it was spontaneous, bold, and meant to provoke.
A growing influence from online figures and far-right football club politics is noted, shaping students’ ideologies. Some students go as far as drawing swastikas or referencing Hitler in class discussions—not always from hate, sometimes for shock—but increasingly, with genuine belief.
“It’s become cool to support these ideologies,” the teacher notes, pointing out that critical thinking is sorely lacking. “They don’t process information. They just repeat what they hear.”
Between Naivety and Violence: A Divided Generation
While some comments are made to trigger or disrupt class, others stem from deeply internalized hatred. One student casually remarked about traveling abroad “to f**k women,” and another made extremely violent comments toward LGBTQ+ people. These weren’t just inappropriate remarks—they were symptoms of a society where prejudice is normalized and unchecked.
In this school, students form clusters. Some, especially the “nerdy” or creative groups, mix well across backgrounds. Others stick to racial lines. Even then, students differentiate between “the good ones I know” and “the bad ones” they imagine outside. “They talk about the ‘illegal ones’ as the problem,” the educator explains, creating an imagined enemy while ignoring the real people beside them.
An Unwelcoming Environment, a Lack of Tools
The physical school environment adds to the problem. “It looks and feels like a prison,” the teacher says. Broken benches, grey walls, a lack of color or inspiration. It’s a space where aggression festers. The institutional support to address this? Almost nonexistent.
“There are policies,” the teacher says, “but no one gives us access to them. Even if we report an incident, nothing happens unless it reaches the higher-ups, and that usually only happens if parents get involved.”
Despite being disturbed by what is witnessed, the teacher wrestles with the role: “Who am I to police someone’s opinion?” But the line, they say, is drawn when opinion incites hate and violence.
Not All Is Lost: Courage and Resistance
Amid the darkness, there are glimmers of hope. There are moments when a single student, despite peer pressure, dares to challenge the group. “You’re not going to throw your kid off a cliff because they’re gay,” one student boldly said, standing up against peers. Those moments serve as a reminder that transformation is possible—even if it starts small.
The educator emphasizes the need for open discussions—structured spaces where youth can reflect, question, and unlearn. “Kids who get the chance to think twice can change. The others? Unless something major happens in their life, it’s difficult.”
What Needs to Change?
The message to institutions, educators, and communities is clear:
- Non-formal education works. Experience through youth work shaped empathy and awareness.
- Stronger, clearer tools for teachers are needed. Protocols should be accessible, training must be deeper than superficial seminars, and school environments need to be reimagined.
- Students need safe spaces. Not just physically, but emotionally—places where dialogue is encouraged and identity is respected.
These insights are a reminder that AntiRacism360 is a necessity. The ideologies shaping our youth today will shape our societies tomorrow. Let’s give educators the support, visibility, and resources needed to stand firm on the frontlines.