From the Asian & Latino Solidarity Alliance (ALSA):

ALSA Supports Equitable Access to Education and Condemns Divisive Narrative

The Asian & Latino Solidarity Alliance (ALSA) believes in equitable representation and that all Virginians should be afforded access to public resources and services in the Commonwealth.

HB2305 would have contributed to this by requiring the Virginia Board of Education to issue guidance on the governance of the academic year for Governor’s Schools, including communication and outreach practices, admissions policies, and guidelines on diversity, equity, and inclusion training. This bill, however, was defeated in the Senate Education and Health Committee.

From the start, this bill was met with unjust resistance, and upheld by privilege and superiority. Competition and achievements based on merit are healthy and ideal, but the inequities that currently exist undermine these desirable outcomes. Systemic bias, discrimination, and racism prevent historically marginalized student populations, specifically Black and Hispanic/Latino, from achieving the same degree of academic success as other groups. We condemn any narrative suggesting that this is due to a lack of intellectual capability or effort. Any attempt to do so underscores the need for HB2305, undermines the merits of the Black and Hispanic/Latino communities, and diminishes their rights and struggles.

Moreover, we reject any notion that providing opportunities for one group is somehow limiting for others: a zero-sum game. We are disappointed by those who would tokenize the Asian community in an effort to drive a wedge between communities of color and score political points. ALL students should have the opportunity to learn and advance in our public schools, not just those who have the privilege, resources, or good fortune.  

We must support efforts to break the barriers to equal access in our education system.  Diversity benefits all students. We stand in solidarity with our fellow communities and are willing to support the investment in the future of all students.