Schools have the potential to be spaces of liberation, where students nurture their genius and discover their passions. This is already the reality for some students, but not nearly enough. Here are the facts, there is a coordinated effort underway to ensure public schools do not serve the interests of students of color, and to deny them representation in the education system. The majority of students enrolled in North Carolina’s public schools are people of color and we know that the attempts to erase Black and Brown perspectives is a response to these demographic realities. This thinly-veiled attempt to outlaw any discussion of racism has dominated news cycles and election coverage for months. Yet, students of color are persistently denied educational opportunities, including the benefits of learning from teachers of their same racial and ethnic identity in a state where over 80% of teachers are white. 

The Freedom Hill Coalition insists that public schools in North Carolina must actively REPRESENT the interests of students of color they serve through the following actions: 

1. North Carolina’s teaching workforce must be diversified to reflect the population of the state and the makeup of our public schools.
2. North Carolina’s educator preparation programs must produce highly prepared, culturally grounded, equity-minded teachers who are ready to engage ALL students on day one.
3. Educator compensation must be increased to reflect the importance of the profession and the dedication required to succeed in the role.
4. North Carolina’s schools must be safe, welcoming, and productive for ALL students.
5. Bilingual education, dual language programming, and language support services must be provided and fully funded so that ALL students can thrive.
6. Education policies and learning materials must reflect and represent ALL students.
7. The use of prison-like school discipline policies must be discontinued.
8. The perspectives of parents and community members of color must be centered in matters of school governance and finance.
9. School boards in North Carolina must monitor and pursue racial equity.
10. North Carolina’s public schools must be fairly funded so those with greater needs receive additional resources.

If you agree with these things, then let it be known. Speak truth to power by signing your name below! Now is not the time for backing down. It’s time to REPRESENT!