In this foundational session, Dr. Muhammad will define culture, equity, anti-racism and culturally & historically responsive education. Together, culture will be explored and revisited in deep, multifaceted ways. We will consider our own cultural identities and approaches to learning the cultures/identities of students. By the end of this session, attendees will understand culture and will be charged to engage in self-identity work. Dr. Muhammad will also introduce participants to the model of culturally and historically responsive education. Participants will learn a brief history of CHRE and the power of education among communities of color in the United States. In addition, educators will be introduced to a five-layered equity model for teaching and learning (1) identity, (2) skills, (3) intellectualism (4) criticality and (5) joy. Exemplar CHRE lesson and unit plans across the contents and grade levels will be shown and discussed. The session will end with practical considerations for writing equitable lesson and unit plans.