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Last month, the nation reflected on successes emerging from the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, a monumental gathering from the committed efforts of civil rights, labor, religious organizations nationwide. The event lives in infamy as one of the largest political rallies for human rights in the United States - organized and executed without direct assistance from the federal government.
Sixty years later, the federal government is demonstrating how a racial equity agenda executed through intentional planning and consistent implementation can strengthen our democracy while yielding benefits for all. Federal agencies wield immense influence to set the tone of the nation. They are positioned to lead America towards an equitable future. This moment is built upon decades of movement organizing to name, counter, and dismantle systemic racism.
Our Federal Initiative to Govern for Racial Equity (FIRE) team recently held an online event exploring efforts to advance racial equity via federal programs. Panelists focused on the possibilities that could emerge when federal government leaders commit to identifying and removing systemic barriers, and embracing the charge of advancing racial equity.
Our H.E.A.L Together initiative works with students, parents, educators and school board members to unite for honest, equitable, and fully funded public schools throughout the nation. Through this work, we get closer to a vision of a just, multiracial democracy - where every person has the freedom to learn, and the freedom to thrive. Check out the link below to learn more about the work H.E.A.L is doing with our community partners, and visit the brand new website.
Last summer we saw firsthand that so much continues to be at stake –– highlighted by the Supreme Court’s overturning of affirmative action, which came nearly one year after the Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which secured a woman’s right to choose. As we close out the year, moving towards the 2024 elections, we must continue to uphold the planning and implementation goals set by our predecessors with the 1963 March. We are charged to uphold and extend their efforts to advance our nation's racial equity agenda for years to come.
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