In our last 6th grade Social Studies unit, we learned about Sanctuary Cities, the struggles of undocumented individuals, and what it means to be a sanctuary. To learn more about the topic, we read articles, created art to connect to the question “What does it mean to be a sanctuary city?”, talked to a person working with a sanctuary organization, and went on an ET around Sunset Park.
On the ET, we walked around Sunset Park and looked at the communities in that area. We noticed signs, music, and murals. The signs had different languages and we talked about how and why these businesses are important to the community. We also thought about how the diverse communities in the area come together. We heard music from a variety of cultures and we saw a dance class rehearsing in their colorful costumes. We also had the opportunity to talk to Florence Roffman, who works with an organization called HIAS (https://hias.org/who/). So far, Florence has helped 2 people from the Ukraine get to America and wants to help others whenever she can.
In the unit, we read multiple articles on sanctuary cities and then used the research to write a white paper, an informational piece to lead the reader to an opinion on the topic by the end of the reading. We took many days and worked very hard to create our final white papers. Candice and Diana helped us whenever we needed guidance.
We also created a bulletin board of our art. We made flags, signs in other languages, and other art that has to do with peace and togetherness. The art is a visual of what a Sanctuary City means to us.
We really enjoyed this unit and we’re excited to start a new unit in social studies.
