Baltimore Community Leaders and Higher Education Support Black Lives Matter Week of Action In School

We,

The undersigned professors, scholars, and community organizations publicly express our support for and solidarity with Baltimore teachers, students and community members and their February 5-10th action in recognition of making Black Student Lives Matter in our schools.

We believe that these goals are vital for educators, parents, students, and all communities in order to…

• Create a space for introspection and dialogue around the 13 guiding principles

• Build deeper connections between educators, parents, students, and community organizations

• Stand in support of national organizing groups supporting Black Lives Matter;

• Empower students and student groups to play a leading role in this week and moving forward

As this work continues beyond February 10, we support the Local Demands for the Black Lives Matter Week of Action written by the Baltimore Movement of Rank and File Educators, the Baltimore Algebra Project, and their partners, which calls for mandated Black History/Ethnic Studies K-12, a more thoughtful implementation of Restorative Practices, the hiring of more Black Teachers and teachers of color, and racial equity in school funding.

This ongoing work will promote equality; the value of human life, and educational, political, and social justice. It requires us to develop the knowledge and actions necessary to eliminate the barriers that structural prejudice, stereotyping, discrimination, and bias create in Baltimore and beyond. We are committed to teaching, learning, and culture in our classrooms that reflect these missions and goals, and to our role in building the leadership of our students to live b them. The survival and empowerment of all communities demands this.

Signed,

Zeke Cohen

City Councilman, City Council

Shannon Sneed Resident, Baltimor