Core
Values Emphasized in this Learning Module
The core values of Citizenship, Fairness, Integrity, Kindness,
Respect and Responsibility will be addressed in this module. These
relate to the Miami Dade Character Education definitions given
below. Some of the ethical issues to consider about slavery are
also given for each core value.
Citizenship
Helping to create a society based upon democratic values; e.g.,
rule of law, equality of opportunity, due process, reasoned argument,
representative government, checks and balances, rights and responsibilities,
and democratic decision-making. Slavery and racism barred Africans
from the rights, privileges and responsibilities of citizenship
in spite of their willingness, capability and eagerness to fully
participate in the American democracy that was founded on democratic
values.
Fairness Treating people impartially, not playing
favorites, being open-minded, and maintaining an objective attitude
toward those whose actions and ideas are different from our own.
Underlying slavery was greed and discomfort with the “other”
– someone different, and grew with racist arguments about
the nature and abilities of Africans as justification for treating
them unfairly.
Integrity Standing up for your beliefs about
what is right and what is wrong and resisting social pressure
to do wrong. Some non-African people stood up for their beliefs
that slavery was wrong. Leaders from the African community emerged
even though it took great courage to challenge racism.
Kindness Being sympathetic, helpful, compassionate,
benevolent, agreeable, and gentle toward people and other living
things. Some whites were benevolent toward Africans by helping
them escape or buy their freedom. Slave owners often said their
slaves were part of the family even though they treated them harshly.
Respect Showing regard for the worth and dignity
of someone or something, being courteous and polite, and judging
all people on their merits. It takes three major forms: respect
for oneself, respect for other people, and respect for all forms
of life and the environment. The basis of slavery and racism is
disrespect for Africans as human beings.
Responsibility Thinking before you act and being
accountable for your actions, paying attention to others, and
responding to their needs. Responsibility emphasizes our positive
obligations to care for each other. Even when importing slaves,
slave trading, and eventually owning slaves became illegal, some
owners did not act responsibly.
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