The organisation is working to embed inclusion and empathy into the next generation with their Pause, Rethink, Rewind, Be Kind: How To Be An Ally Against Unkindness campaign
BY AMY CHAPPEL, IMAGE BY DIVERSITY ROLE MODELS Â
DIVA was honoured to attend an exclusive event at Disney’s London HQ on Wednesday 24 January hosted by Diversity Role Models (DRM), a charitable organisation actively working to embed inclusion and empathy in the next generation. DRM proudly launched its groundbreaking Pause, Rethink, Rewind, Be Kind: How To Be An Ally Against Unkindness campaign and preview clips from the forthcoming Upstander Animations Series.
It was an insightful evening filled with mingling, viewing excerpts of the animations, and hearing from speakers involved in creating these impactful new classroom resources. We learned how DRM plans to visit schools and educate students on being an “upstander” against unkindness. A London headteacher also gave her valuable perspective on incorporating these progressive resources into the curriculum.
The Upstander Animation Series is a set of short animated videos designed to empower young people to stand up against unkindness. Created by DRM with input from students and educators, these vibrant films feature relatable intersectional characters and stories. They provide a safe space for students to “step into someone else’s shoes” and explore diversity and compassion.
Research shows that narrative videos effectively build empathy and cooperation. By prompting youth to Pause, Rethink, Rewind, Be Kind, DRM aims to motivate the next generation to celebrate diversity and be upstanders. With tailored content for all different ages, the films address varied issues like gender norms, diverse families, and negative LGBTQIA stereotypes.
The Upstander Resource Packs offer insightful discussion prompts, hands-on activities and more to reinforce these important messages. DRM understands that confidence, inclusion and kindness in youth are best fostered through creativity. These imaginative animation resources have great power to inspire a kinder, more understanding next generation.
It was truly inspirational to learn about the meaningful work DRM does in leveraging media and education to cultivate kindness in youth. DIVA encourages readers to further explore this one-of-a-kind animation series and its accompanying resources by visiting the DRM website to learn more about the Upstander Animation Series.
DIVA magazine celebrates 30 years in print in 2024. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
✨linkin.bio/ig-divamagazine ✨
