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February 21st, 2018

CEJ and Allies Take City Hall!

teachers

CEJ made their demands for NYC schools to adopt Culturally Responsive Education loud and clear at a rally at City Hall on February 6th. In the wake of a racist slavery lesson at a Bronx middle school, parents, students, elected officials, and education equity advocates alike came together to let the Mayor’s office and the Department of Education know that our communities will not let this disgraceful incident get swept under the rug. Over 50 people entered City Hall, singing and chanting, until their voices were heard and Natasha Capers, CEJ coordinator, met with the Mayor’s chief of staff to discuss CEJ’s demands.

Since last March, CEJ and allies have been fighting for the Mayor to make Culturally Responsive Education a key part of his education agenda. This includes implement a curriculum that teaches historical truths and expanding anti-bias trainings to thousands of teachers, administrators, and school staff. Unfortunately, only one half of one percent of NYC’s teaching force are participating in this type of cultural competency training. The Mayor must be held accountable for the dehumanizing actions against students of color by school staff. Our voices will be heard.

Listen here to Coalition for Educational Justice Coordinator, Natasha Capers address the need for cultural competency training  for school staff on WNYC’s All Things Considered.                          “We actually need to tell the truth when we’re teaching history even when it makes our country, our city, look bad…especially when we’re uncomfortable with the truth.” – Natasha Capers

Click below to watch CEJ and allies in action!

Sign our petition here to demand the Mayor take action against racism and bias in NYC schools!

Click here for more press coverage on CEJ’s actions!

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