Activism is American

Our country was founded on revolution and activism, yet for some reason the far right wants to suppress the teaching of history and civics in school that reflects the founding of this country.

Over the last five years, I have witnessed and protested the efforts of far right groups like Moms for Liberty, Parents Defending Education, and Independent Women's Organization to suppress student voices, whether those voices were at TJ, West Springfield, West Potomac, or in front of the School Board. They criticize student speech and actions, sometimes even denying that student speech was written by students!

Why in the name of the founders of this great nation would they do this, all while trying to remove K-12 civics lessons that teach students how to advocate for themselves and their communities?

It is because the far right fears students. They know that students are the future and Gen Alpha is not going to go quietly into the night as fascism descends. K-12 students will conduct walkouts, speak truth to power, and organize for change.

However, this spark starts with schools teaching kids to advocate for themselves in class, with their peers, and in their school community. Whether it is scouting, group projects, academic competitions, or student government, kids learn to be leaders, how to organize projects, and how to be part of a team in their public school.

Members of the Carter G. Woodson 2024 Government Class on their class field trip. (from woodsonhs instagram)