Hope McMath is visionary in our community, who has long combined her passion for creativity, activism, and leadership to make Jacksonville a more thoughtful, inclusive city.  In recent years, she has brought that same dedication into the classroom, teaching Art History at Douglas Anderson High School and inspiring students to think critically and creatively about the world around them.  

Throughout her career, Hope has been a steadfast advocate for positive change, challenging institutions to do better and helping our city evolve in the process. Her voice has always been one of conscience and courage.

The ability to critique public leaders is not only a right but a cornerstone of democracy. Without it, who holds those in power accountable? Hope’s recent removal from her position at Douglas Anderson—simply for exercising her right to speak out—is an alarming threat to free speech and a dangerous precedent for our community. When educators, in particular, are silenced for expressing their views, we risk stifling the very principles of democracy, free thought, and inquiry that schools should nurture.

We cannot allow this to stand. Hope McMath must be reinstated to her classroom, where she can continue to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders. Her commitment to truth, transparency, and critical thinking is exactly what our students—and our city—need, especially in these times.

Join us in demanding that the Florida Department of Education restore Hope McMath to her rightful place at Douglas Anderson. Add your name to this petition to stand up for free speech, support our educators, and ensure a brighter, freer educational future for our children.