S.T.O.P. Program Description
What is S.T.O.P.?
Students Together Opposing Prejudice is a seven-week curriculum, targeted to middle school students. The 1 1/2 hour sessions take place in the participating houses of worship.
Through short teachings on each faith students learn about the similarities and differences among the faith traditions so they can appreciate and respect the faith of others.The participants learn that racial unity comes about through recognition of the value of every individual and the celebrating of every person’s uniqueness.
They also learn to appreciate that every community is enriched by diversity.
What Happens at a S.T.O.P. Session?
The sessions are made up of a variety of activities including skits, videos, games and small group discussions. The small group discussions are facilitated by older teens who have been in S.T.O.P. since Middle School.
The goal of these activities is to increase the participants’ awareness of their own uniqueness and the uniqueness of the other participants. Other activities will help them identify and respond to stereotypes and prejudice when they see it.
S.T.O.P. participants also hear talks by older teens about their experiences and insights regarding prejudice and discrimination.
Who are the Leaders of the S.T.O.P. Program?
Adult advisors are present at each session and lead the large group activities. The small group discussion facilitators are High School students who have been in the S.T.O.P. Program since 6th, 7th, or 8th grade and have been trained to facilitate the small group activities.
Interfaith issues have been a recurring issue for me since middle school when I joined S.T.O.P. (Students Together Opposing Prejudice), an Interfaith program in its inaugural year that brought together students from three different faiths. This program, along with a continuing focus on inclusion and understanding, have been key parts of my identity…”
