Hi John,
As we enter the second week of Black August, we honor the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for justice and freedom before us. At AQE, this month is a call to action, urging us to transform our schools and communities with the same resolve that has shaped the Black liberation struggle.
Our education system still battles deep-seated issues. The erasure of Black, brown, and Indigenous histories from curricula overlooks the impacts of the transatlantic slave trade and European colonization, denying students a full understanding of the roots of systemic inequities that persist today. Additionally, attacks on culturally responsive teaching methods undermine the rich diversity of our shared experiences.
In the face of these challenges, community schools offer hope. They provide essential resources and exemplify the power of grassroots initiatives in overcoming systemic barriers.
In this spirit, we spotlight Elaine Brown, a pivotal advocate for justice in all its forms. Born in Philadelphia in 1943, Brown’s life contrasts her privileged education - private school, classical piano, and ballet - and her family’s economic hardships. After high school, she briefly attended Temple University before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a music career. There, she was introduced to the Black Power Movement, worked for a radical newspaper, and attended her first Black Panther Party meeting following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968.
Brown quickly became a leading figure in the Party, helping to establish its Free Breakfast for Children program, Free Busing to Prisons, and Free Legal Aid. Her role expanded as she became the editor of The Black Panther publication, and by 1974, she was appointed as the Party’s chairwoman by Huey P. Newton, who had fled to Cuba. Under her leadership, the Party continued to build on its educational initiatives, notably its establishment of its first community school in 1973 - a milestone that highlighted the crucial role of grassroots education in the liberation struggle.
Beyond her tenure with the Party, Brown continued to advocate for prison abolition and a robust public education system. Most recently, this past July, she led a successful $80 million fundraising effort to open an affordable clean energy apartment building in Oakland, California. At AQE, we recognize that stable, affordable housing - that we view as a human right - is essential for students to thrive. It helps them feel safe, stay focused, and grow into engaged members of society. Brown’s current work also reflects our belief at AQE that all of our struggles for equity are interconnected, and we are undeniably stronger together.
As we honor Black August, let Elaine Brown's legacy inspire us. Her dedication renews our commitment to a future where every student has access to a rich and equitable education.
Here are some resources for you to explore this week:
In gratitude for the work of leaders like Elaine Brown, let’s turn the spirit of Black August into meaningful action. Together, we can build on their vision and drive lasting change in our communities.
In solidarity,
Zakiyah Shaakir-Ansari
Co-Executive Director
Alliance for Quality Education
