Kourtney Kardashian knows that the work starts at home. The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star opened up about her responsibility to teach her three children about white privilege and racism. Following the recent death of George Floyd – an unarmed black man who was killed by police in Minneapolis – the topic of racial injustices in the United States toward Black people has sparked tough conversations as well as protests. In a post on her social media, the mother of Mason, ten, Penelope, seven and five-year-old Reign shared how she is educating her children. “As a mother, there is a natural instinct to protect my children from anything that might make them feel sad or unsafe,” she wrote.
“The pain and suffering inflicted by racism is not a thing of the past and I bare the responsibility to speak with my kids honestly and often about it, even when the truth is uncomfortable. I have to make sure they understand what it means to have white privilege and to take the time to learn and discuss Black History, beyond just one short month out of the year. I encourage other mothers to join me in using this as a learning lesson for our children, to allow our children to feel comfortable enough to come talk to us about anything.”
Kourtney shared that she offers a judgment free zone and gives her children the space to educate her. The Poosh founder added that when she doesn’t have the answers she and her kids do the research together. In addition, the reality TV star shared that it’s not only important that she does the work for her children, but so that she can be a better “auntie to my nieces and nephews, a better friend, and a better person.”
Kourt elaborated on her message further in a post on her lifestyle website Poosh. In addition to her remarks, the founder encouraged the world to take action. “We should all want to do better and be better. The best way to teach respect, love and kindness is by modeling it. The best way to teach the importance of using your voice and standing up for what is right and what you believe in is by modeling it,” she shared.
“I have always felt the importance of allowing my kids to be who they are, to give them the tools they need, structure and security as a parent, but to not mold them into any ideal. There is so much I learn from them every day, so much light and perspective they bring to situations, so I encourage you to be open to that as well.”
Kourtney ended her message by sharing a list of books that educate children and families on differences. The proud mom also shared the air date for the Sesame Street special that will help children understand racism. If you’d like to tune in the CNN and Sesame Street are hosting a Town Hall for parents and children on June 6 at 10 am EST.