Soundings

In an unprecedented political, social, and cultural climate where executive orders are being issued to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives nationwide, especially in educational institutions, three college-aged students from diverse racial backgrounds reflect on their experiences with racial discrimination and exclusion in K-12 education. In sharing their stories, they engage in thoughtful interviews and discussions that demonstrate the interconnectedness of the exclusion they faced based on their identities and the importance of DEI efforts in educational settings—a gift of support that could have greatly benefited their younger selves during those challenging times.

Produced by Madisyn Cunningham, Glenn Kleiman, Emily Lim, and Rocio Sanchez Salcido

Research: Using research was the antithesis of IncludEd’s intentional demonstration of how research falls short in capturing students' lived experiences facing racism when discussing DEI. IncludEd’s research is through the sourcing and storytelling of Emily’s, Madisyn’s, and Rocio’s lived experiences with exclusion in schools. 

Music Acknowledgements:

- Blue Dot Sessions: Column and Law (Dorica), Fissure Forming (Trailhead), Line Exchange (Marble Run), Toadstool Runner (Fabulist), Waypost (Desert Kalimba)

- Freesound: Low Synth Note Atmosphere (Synthetic Sounds), TV Switching Sound - TV Sound Effects (AltF4)

How exciting would it be if you actually tuned into that little voice in the back of your head? The one

telling you to go for the thing you really want, even if it’s probably, most likely, definitely not what’s

expected of you? Aren’t you curious how a girl can go from making pancakes in the kitchen with her

mom one day to suddenly winning MasterChef Junior—only to lose her passion for cooking, then

find her way back to it again? Let’s dive into the story of Jasmine Stewart, who actually did listen to

that tiny voice, took an unexpected detour, and found out where it would lead her.

Produced by Aaryan Harshith, Christina Ademasu, and Jenny Huynh

Bio: Jasmine Stewart, the Season 5 winner of MasterChef Junior, made history as the first African

American champion of the competition. At just 12 years old, she not only claimed the title but also

became the only contestant in the show's history to win after being previously eliminated. Today,

Jasmine continues to break boundaries, pursuing an individually designed major in Black Food and

Multimedia Studies at NYU’s Gallatin School.

Acknowledgments for music:

1. 2. 3. 4. King Billy by Blue Dot Sessions

Tell What You Know by Blue Dot Sessions

Castillo by Blue Dot Sessions

The Cornice by Blue Dot Sessions