The weaponization of resources, religion, books, race, and language contributes to the extreme polarization experienced in today’s society especially as it relates to public education. Within the PK – 20 education system, statutes, policies, and their implementation can promote opportunity or sustain systems of inequality. For example, book bans are being used to ensue culture wars based on personal beliefs related to topics such as religion, diversity, and the truth about America’s history. Politics and fear continue to infiltrate public education as PK-12 school districts, colleges, and universities are being pressured to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The misinformation associated with the impact of DEI in educational settings continues to be used as a tool for instilling fear amongst parents, educators, and voters. Furthermore, policy decisions regarding DEI and book bans create hostile, unsafe, and limiting learning environments for students. 

Historically, the use of fear as a tactic for gaining and maintaining control is one way that systemic racism was birthed in America. When the first enslaved Black Africans arrived in Virginia and the New World in 1619, the efforts to instill fear and limit access to knowledge, resources, and opportunities began. The myths associated with what is referred to as the ‘slaveholders religion’ was used as a justification for slavery and a tool for spreading false information. This theme persists as the institution of public education is under attack.

The past few years have been challenging for educators in North Carolina. Specifically, given how the political climate is affecting policy decisions in North Carolina, Governor Roy Cooper issued a state of emergency for public education. For example, in August 2023, the Parents Bill of Rights (Senate Bill 49) was passed by the NC legislature, but concerns regarding enforcement of the policy delayed statewide implementation. Local school boards across the state were expected to develop and implement policies in compliance with Senate Bill 49. The development and adoption of these policies has occurred at various rates. The lack of clarity regarding the application of the Parents Bill of Rights in the classroom has led to caution and concern from educators and advocates. In some NC districts, the decision was made to refrain from adopting the blanket provisions outlined by the bill, allowing district administration to make decisions that will allow for flexibility on a case by case basis. This is a powerful example of how local school boards can engage in intentional decision-making that protects and supports every student. 

As election time nears, North Carolinians will be left to make a critical decision about the future of public education across the state. A key component of responsibly when exercising our right to vote is conducting thorough research on national, state, local races. Nationally and in NC, the outcome of the race for president, governor and state superintendent of public instruction will be crucial to the vitality of public education and the protection of basic human rights. Building awareness through research offers voters the opportunity to escape misinformation and get clear on what is factual. With a full view of the facts voters can confidently establish an understanding of what is at stake and make decisions that will benefit every child. 

Nikole Hannah-Jones once said that “the same instinct that led powerful people to prohibit Black people from being able to read is the same instinct that’s leading powerful people to try to stop our children from learning histories that would lead them to question the unequal society that we have as well”. To overcome this practice of oppression, we mustn’t allow fear to serve as a distraction in the midst of progress. There is a collective responsibility to reclaim the resources, knowledge, access, and opportunities that have been gatekept based on the belief that one’s skin color or other physical features determines what they are entitled to and capable of. We, the people, deserve a democracy where every child has equitable access to high-quality education and opportunities to thrive. While this may require unique and innovative forms of activism, it will also require knowledge of and reliance on the blueprint laid forth by historical giants like Dr. Dudley E. Flood, Dorothy Counts-Scoggins, and Pauli Murray. Together, we, the people, can act collectively to move the arc of justice and ensure that future generations are not limited by the fear of others, but instead are equipped to stand confidently on the side of what is just and true.