My name is Asafonie. I am an African American mother of four children. On March 16, 2021, I received an email filled with racist rhetoric from Indian Prairie School District 204 Candidate . This email was in response to a question I asked her in regards to her opposition to Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) legislation. Instead of Shannon accepting my invitation to have a 30 minute conversation via Zoom, Shannon responded with an email showing how she feels about proponents of diversity and inclusion. 

Shannon emailed me, " Have you, x, and x considered starting your own charter school? Perhaps our community would benefit from a chartered institution that could fulfill the culturally response teaching pedagogy? It could charge tuition and welcome families who want that full time social justice and race-based curriculum. Channel all your passion and drive. Think about it! If you open one, I look forward to hearing about the enrollment and success."

She targeted three women of color who are equity champions in our district. 

Shannon has continued to use racial microaggressions on her campaign platform like "my children don't see color. They could teach you a thing or two." Shannon is out of touch with the pressing social issues of our society and with such statements cannot be trusted to fight for all students. She lacks integrity, soundness, and does not have the temperament to have discussions with constituents. 

Shannon MUST immediately drop out of the race. Shannon is dangerous and has proven to further divide our diverse community. Please sign this petition in support of Shannon's resignation as a District 204 School Board Candidate.

*Cultural Responsive Teaching prepares teachers to foster an inclusive environment.