Watching a recent episode from Citizen Ed, “Freedom Friday, Juneteenth Special Episode,” Dana King, J.D’s discussion of the Black Minds Matter movement and justice in the classroom reminded us of one of our previous discussions on reparations and education. 

While discussing the state of the public education system, King stated that the “Black Minds Matter” movement was also an important conversation happening around justice. In her explanation, she explained that we as a country need to be fighting for justice in the classroom where Black minds are being held hostage. 

She points out that when Black Americans were “allowed access” to classrooms, many considered this a form of reparations for the numerous past injustices. But access alone, she argues, is NOT justice. Describing Brown v. Board of Education, she impresses upon listeners to remember that desegregation in education was not about quality teachers. In fact, there were many talented Black teachers during the segregation era. Instead, desegregation was often supported by Black parents because they wanted access to resources available to white children.

This lack of control over resources reminded us of our conversations last week, but also a conversation we started a while back about reparations. Dana King J.D.’s assertions beg the question, “Should Black families receive reparations in the form of education scholarships?”

Check out our post on reparations to join that conversation: 

“MARIJUANA TAX TO FUND “REPARATIONS SCHOLARSHIPS?”

And take a moment to check out last week’s discussion in case you missed it: 

“IS WAKE COUNTY’S SCHOOL SYSTEM WHITE SUPREMACIST?”