by Marc Broklawski, cross-posted from Medium
On this historic night, the Stafford County School Board voted unanimously to approve the first anti-racism resolution. In clear, compassionate language, the resolution cites the pain and suffering endured as the result of racism. And it makes a commitment that everyone in the school system “individually and collectively — is responsible for creating and nurturing an anti-racist learning environment where every child is respected and valued for who they are, regardless of their skin color.”
These are wonderful words, and I think their hearts are in the right place. But I also hope that there will be a close look at institutional racism in hiring, firing, child guidance and disciplinary actions, suspensions, expulsions, drop-outs and enrollment in programs such as Governor’s School, International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP) and other such academic programs.
Stafford County is the 17th richest county in America – and Stafford Public Schools is also a “majority-minority” school system. We want to make sure that we are doing everything we can, so all of our educational programs are inclusive and accessible.
Words matter, but actions matter more. This is an excellent first step, now let’s do the work.
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