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.