How Can Schools Teach Hard Histories?
Teaching students about injustice, resistance, and the long fight for civil and human rights isn’t easy—but it’s essential. These “hard histories” include moments of pain, courage, and profound change. When taught with honesty and sensitivity, they help young people develop empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
So, how can educators approach this vital work in a way that both respects the truth and supports students? Here are five best practices schools can adopt to bring hard histories to life—with integrity and care.
- Use Primary Sources and Real Artifacts
When students engage directly with historical documents, photographs, and objects, they connect more deeply to the past. Primary sources reveal voices and experiences that are often left out of textbooks.
That’s why tools like the Traveling Trunks from Atlanta’s National Center for Civil and Human Rights are so valuable. These classroom-ready kits include replica artifacts, primary documents, and lessons designed to immerse students in moments of history—from sit-ins to youth activism—right at their desks.
- Center Student Inquiry and Critical Thinking
Rather than simply delivering facts, invite students to ask questions, analyze evidence, and wrestle with different perspectives. Let them explore: Why did people resist injustice? What choices did ordinary citizens make? How does this relate to our world today?
The Center’s Learning Portal contains videos, oral histories, and discussion tools that empower students to examine history through inquiry—not just memorization.
- Prepare a Safe, Reflective Classroom Culture
Difficult topics can bring up strong emotions, especially for students whose families have lived these histories. Establish ground rules for discussion that prioritize respect, curiosity, and care. Create space for emotional reactions and personal connections.
Encourage students to notice new or more detailed information and reflect on it in relation to broader public conversations. Support every learner’s voice—and their silence.
- Highlight Resilience and Agency, Not Just Trauma
Hard histories are not only stories of oppression; they are also stories of resistance, creativity, and community. Be sure to emphasize the courage of young people, the power of nonviolent action, and the ways change was (and still is) possible.
- Connect the Past to the Present
Show students that the fight for civil and human rights is ongoing. Discuss current events with historical parallels. Ask how students can participate in their communities today. Encourage them to see themselves not just as learners of history—but as makers of it.
Ready to Get Started?
Teaching hard histories takes care, but it’s also one of the most meaningful things you can do in the classroom. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is here to help.
Explore our Traveling Trunks and discover digital lessons, stories, and classroom resources in our Learning Portal. Whether you’re in-person or online, these tools will help teachers open new worlds to their students.