Dr. Lucretia Berry’s journey to Community School of Davidson (CSD) started when she began meeting with founder, Joy Warner. Dr. Berry was interested in all she had heard about CSD, and Warner was looking for someone she trusted to educate CSD’s staff about the topic of race. Dr. Berry’s educational program “Brownicity” had caught her attention, and the two soon found a fit in each other. Now in her 8th year teaching Anti-Racism 101, an elective open to all students, Dr. Berry continues to open doors and shatter narratives that her students didn’t even know existed. The class is a space for students to learn about racism, ethnicity, diversity, stereotypes and the history as well as science behind them, and so much more. Dr. Berry creates a safe environment for students to ask questions, share their opinions, and think critically about a topic that has quietly and uncomfortably surrounded Americans since our country’s beginning.
Waffles or pancakes?
Waffles.
Who do you look up to?
I look up to creative people, like people who are so creative that they transcend boundaries and blur lines. Some people might find it disturbing, but if it’s healthy… I just am energized by creative energy.
Best advice you’ve gotten?
I’m a spiritual person, so I would say trust God. Know that God loves you.
What made you start getting curious about race?
Actually, I have always been curious about race, even as a kid it made no sense to me. I think my whole life I’ve been asking questions which then led me in the direction to do this work. I think I’m naturally an educator, and I have a doctorate in education, so I’m uniquely positioned to teach in a way that helps people understand this complicated construct.
If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be?
Well, I’m also an author because I love using words to help create worlds. Or, I would be a carpenter because then I’d be building things, and I like that, too.
Favorite thing about CSD?
Its educational philosophy and its approach to centering the whole child. And they actually do it, they don’t just say it.
Favorite music artist?
I like lots of music artists, but I think Beyonce is a genius.
Favorite holiday?
Easter.
How would you describe yourself in one or two words?
Audacious and authentic.
Favorite movie or TV show?
My favorite movie of all time is “The Color Purple.” Currently, my favorite TV show is “Abbott Elementary.”
Most-watched sport?
Basketball, because my 9th grader is a basketball player.
What is one thing you want all people to know about your class?
It is an incredible opportunity to have space to learn about something that people are so terrified to talk about, but when you learn about it, you feel free. You feel more liberated and at ease.
Writer’s note:
I’m getting to experience Dr. Berry’s class this year after a friend who took the class last year met me after a class and said “Dr. Berry is a GENIUS,” more times than I could count. I, and many others, definitely agree. One day after another enlightening class, I met with her to ask these questions.
