Friend –

We all want D.C. Public School students to learn in an environment that is safe and free from harm. But DCPS currently pays millions of dollars to staff our schools with police officers who, contrary to making schools safer, cause more harm.

Past data analyzed by the ACLU shows that schools with police-reported 3.5 times as many arrests of children as schools without police, and have higher rates of suspensions and expulsions. These harms disproportionately impact Black and Brown students (Black girls especially), students with disabilities, and LGBTQ students.

Join the ACLU-DC and Black Swan Academy on Monday, September 28, for a virtual conversation on the detrimental impact that police have on students, what resources would better serve young people, and how the Police-Free Schools campaign aims to create safer learning environments in D.C.

Tickets are pay-what-you-will, with a suggested donation of $10. 100 percent of ticket proceeds will benefit Black Swan Academy, a D.C.-based nonprofit organization that empowers Black youth through after-school programs, mentoring, and youth-led advocacy campaigns.

This event will serve as the ACLU-DC's annual membership meeting, and organizational updates will be shared. All are welcome to attend, regardless of whether they choose to donate to Black Swan Academy.

Register today.

We hope you'll join us for this important conversation!

ACLU of the District of Columbia