It's Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action

BLM at School, 2022: Students, educators and activists are gearing up for Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action in Seattle, Jan. 31-Feb. 4, 2022.

A particular concern this year is a bill before the Washington State Legislature that would prohibit the teaching of so-called “critical race theory” in public schools. House Bill 1886 would forbid school districts from providing instruction or facilitating classroom discussion on themes including the idea that “the United States is fundamentally or structurally racist or sexist.”

This movement is gaining attention around the country.

“Let it be known that nothing will stop us from teaching the truth about the long history of racism and intersecting oppressions,” said Seattle teacher Jesse Hagopian, a leader in the Black Lives Matter at School movement.

Thousands of people in schools here and across the country are pledging to wear Black Lives Matter shirts to school. In addition, educators will teach lessons addressing the 13 principles of the Black Lives Matter at School movement.

“The racial inequity we see in our schools today is one of the most pressing issues in education. But we have the chance to take a stand against injustice, something that is long overdue,” said Anjali Dixit, a member of the NAACP Youth Council. “Black Lives Matter at School is an opportunity for schools and educators everywhere to join hands and tear down the walls of systemic racism.”

This national action week has been endorsed by local and national teachers unions, the Seattle PTA, scores of college and university professors and prominent activists and intellectuals around the country.

BLM at School: themes and events

In the Seattle area, events are planned all week including an online “Young, Gifted, & Black Student Talent Showcase” from 6-8 p.m. Thursday (Feb. 3)

Themes and priorities for the Puget Sound area for 2022:

Ethnic studies/Black studies
Hire Black teachers
Restorative justice (replace police removed from Seattle schools with restorative justice counselors and family support workers)
Fully fund education
End high-stakes testing
Teach truth: defeat House Bill 1886