The horrific murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police was a vivid reminder of the oppression that festers within American institutions. That egregious violation of human rights was caught on video for everyone to see. Sadly, many less dramatic abuses occur all too frequently within our public schools. 
        As a mother of two children in the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD), I can attest to the fact that many Black students and their families are faced with racial inequality, hostility, and racists acts within the school system.  Many Black children (especially Black boys) are forced to attend school while confronting racial oppression, ostracism, a hostile educational environment, unnecessary labeling, and disproportionately harsh discipline. 
     Black parents are made to feel unwelcome in school organizations. If they do participate they are often alienated, met with aggression, or treated in a disingenuous or hostile way until they leave. 
      As a result of this malignant climate many of our children start to dislike school, perform poorly, and even suffer from depression and suicidal thoughts. The constant micro-aggressions, biases and oppressive practices by the administrators (including principals), staff, fellow students, school organizations (such as the PTA) are devastating Black children and their families.     
      There is nothing being done to create an equitable educational environment for Black families in the CNUSD. There is no accountability and many administrators have expressed no concern for the experience of the Black community. Those who contribute to the disempowerment of our children and their families face no repercussions. Black families are forced to either tolerate mistreatment in silence to avoid alienation, or escape the toxic environment by homeschooling.  
      Enough is enough, Black families are tired of defending themselves and trying to convince others that they being oppressed. We want mandatory equity training in our school districts that are chosen by Black leaders, our own organizations on campus, Black history celebration & education, better staff and administrative representation, accountability for discriminatory behavior, and active Black parent participation through incentivized recruitment. Please support the district taking their knee off of the necks of our children.