I cannot address the color issue — because I hope hope hope that it is NOT an issue………if it is, than shame on us.

But I would like to address the other issue of just common courtesy and openness.

I have been to DEN events and though I was welcomed in….I still felt as an outsider who though I was invited to the party, I was not a part of the party. And I think that that had nothing to do with DEN as a company, but DEN as a group of friends. They are welcoming, VERY welcoming to newbies….but there are still those who are very comfy with each other. And in time, you will have that comfortableness too — I promise. And the good thing is, because you are aware of this issue, you will notice others who might be affected by it as well in the future.

As for NECC, well I am unsure where you went, but in general the people are quite nice, but also very self-centered. I remember being a one NECC and was in the center of a row with 2 people talking over me, and finally asked me if I would leave so they could continue their talk. Though I understood they had not seen each other in a while, I will never forget how dismissed I felt. And to this day, I have lot a great deal of respect for the one who asked me to please leave.

It does happen to us all — unfortunately.

Hopefully our paths will cross at NECC 2009. I would love to shake your hand and say “Hello!”

Jen

This was also my first year attending NECC and I had some of the same feelings that you had. I am white and I was sometimes treated the same way. Many of the people that I saw at NECC I know through my PLN, reading educational blogs & articles, and other educational organizations. But I only know them virtually. I was excited to see many of these people in person, but I didn’t meet all of them. Some were friendly, some were not. Even in the exhibit hall, many folks wanting freebies were eager to step right over or in front of me to get a pen or a pad of paper!! At a conference the size of NECC, it is easy to get lost in the shuffle.

Attending conferences and putting yourself out there takes time and effort. So get involved, take initiative, and be confident!

I admit I was a flutter saying hi to people I know but I noticed you standing “behind” me while I was talking to a Discovery employee. When the conversation had a pause I did invite you in to “the circle.” One thing I would offer is just try to step out on a limb every now and then. Say hi to someone you don’t know at events like this. When I first started going to conferences I didn’t talk to people and didn’t have a good time. I realized I had to start talking to people even if I was a little uncomfortable. Yes, there was a time I was uncomfortable talking to people I didn’t know.

I don’t think being more confident would make you fall in to stereo-types. How do you become more confident? Keep learning… try something new, succeed, and tell people about it. You know I hear the Middle School Camp was a success… celebrate it. Blog about it!

If you ever see me at NECC, come say hi. I’ll be happy to introduce you to anyone I know.

@sweetback, there is a disconnection, that we must first face and then work through. I am so open and willing to do that! Thanks for the insightful comment!

@Aundreta, it is a catch 22! But luckily, I am neither pushy or agressive, perhaps I need to work on being more assertive. Thanks for the comment!

@Chris, thank you so much for your comment, and you know it could have been that I am quiet and shy. I agree that we are a community of educators, and I would hope that we all believe in inclusion for all people; I certainly do! Thanks so much for your comment, I didn’t realize anyone was reading my blog! If I am ever blessed to visit your country, and had the pleasure of meeting you, I am sure that you would make me feel at home! Thanks again!