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The official theme of Black History Month 2020 is “African Americans and the Vote.” Black changemakers and activists have been fighting for equal rights since before our nation began. This week, we’ll be sharing resources on the history of Black civic engagement and the continuing fight for full equality under the law.

A video of a boy turned away at the schoolhouse door because of his hair went viral. But this isn't an isolated case. These resources explain the bias behind certain hair and dress code policies, and hopefully inspire you to see this new school year as an opportunity to stand up for your students' right to be themselves—inside and out.

June 15 marks the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe. The court ruled in 1982 that schools could not deny students a public education based on their citizenship status. Use these resources, including SPLC’s new guide and pamphlets for advocating for immigrant students and emerging English speakers, to ensure your school is doing right by students and families.

Engaging in action to make positive change in our communities is the next step beyond learning about voting rights and civic responsibilities. When young people recognize the possibilities of power and engagement, they can become change agents in their communities. These LFJ resources for young people provide tips for becoming involved and encouraging friends and family to vote. 

On Sunday, February 17, educators and immigrant rights advocates, organized by Teachers Against Child Detention, are hosting a Teach-In for Freedom in El Paso, Texas. Use this edition of The Moment to learn about how you can support their work to end child immigrant detention—and how to include your students in these efforts from your own school or classroom.

Did you set New Year's resolutions for your classroom? This edition of The Moment can help you "hit the reset button" after winter break. Whether it's revamping your classroom management strategy or taking a more responsive approach to discipline, these resources can help you start off your spring semester on the right foot.

June 28 marks the anniversary of the start of the Stonewall uprisings. Largely led by Black and Brown trans women and gender nonconforming people of color, protesters demonstrated against routine police violence, discrimination and dehumanization. This year, we’re celebrating Pride by celebrating the intersectional history of the LGBTQ movement—and the intersectionality of current movements in support of Black lives and LGBTQ rights.

August 12 marks the second anniversary of the deadly Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville. As we mourn last week’s attacks along with communities in California, Texas and Ohio—and across the United States—we hold all survivors in our hearts. In this edition of The Moment, we share three stories from Charlottesville—stories of a mother, a student and a district that responded to hate with not only love but with a commitment to justice.