This episode lit us up in the best way. Amanda sat down with Aaron H. Aceves, author of This Is Why They Hate Us, for a heartfelt conversation about identity and the power of honest storytelling. Aaron’s openness about his own journey challenged us to reflect on how we, as educators, can lead with vulnerability and create space for students to do the same. His protagonist, Enrique, is messy, hilarious, and deeply real—and that kind of representation matters more than ever in our classrooms.

Aaron reminded us that books like his are more than stories—they're lifelines for students who need to see themselves in the pages they read. This conversation is a love letter to teachers everywhere, doing the work to bring authentic, diverse voices into their classrooms. We hope it leaves you feeling as inspired as it left us.

Resources:

• Join Camp BNT: Summer 2025
• This is Why They Hate Us, by Aaron H. Aceves

Connect with Aaron:

• Website
• Instagram: @aaronaceves
• TikTok
• Facebook

More Camp BNT 2025 Episodes:

• Episode 260, Samira Ahmed: A Conversation About Internment Part 1
• Episode 261, Samira Ahmed: A Conversation About Internment Part 2
• Episode 262, Aimee Phan: A Conversation About The Lost Queen Part 1
• Episode 263, Aimee Phan: A Conversation About The Lost Queen Part 2

SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode264

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