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Over 1,800 Young Scholars Rally for Public Education – A Call to Action

Update The Assembly of Young Voices: A Call for Support in Public Education On Wednesday, July 23, a remarkable gathering of over 1,800 young people will march to the Minnesota State Capitol in Saint Paul. These dedicated scholars, participants in the CDF Freedom Schools program, aim to advocate for the essential role of public education in our communities. This event, part of the National Day of Social Action, is a powerful declaration that every child deserves access to comprehensive and equitable education, recognizing public education as a vital public good. Why Public Education Matters Now More Than Ever In light of recent discussions surrounding the fate of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), the scholars' rally highlights critical concerns that America must address. With the federal government contemplating reductions to education funding, it is essential to remember the millions of children who rely on these services. Education Commissioner Willie Jett's comments on Minnesota's education funding emphasize the urgency of this issue for families across the nation. With the DOE providing resources to more than 50 million children, dismantling it threatens to widen educational inequalities, particularly affecting underrepresented students. Embracing Civic Engagement: Learning by Doing This rally is not just a one-time event; it's a chance to model civic engagement for young people. As the Director of CDF-MN, Alisha Porter remarked, "Every child deserves access to a strong public education." The CDF Freedom Schools program exemplifies this mantra by incorporating culturally relevant literacy education that prevents summer learning loss. By participating in activism at such a young age, these students are learning the importance of using their voices and standing up for their rights, shaping tomorrow's citizens. Rally Highlights: The Day’s Events and Expectation The day will feature a march to the Capitol and an interactive Q&A session with lawmakers, providing a platform for students to express their views directly to decision-makers. Following the discussions, the event will culminate in a celebratory Harambee, a call for unity that exemplifies commitment and hope. This celebration not only fosters a sense of community among participants but reinforces the importance of collective action in achieving social change. A Broader Movement: Understanding Public Education in Context This rally is just one part of a larger movement advocating for educational reform across the United States. The attention being paid to the voices of children and their advocates serves as a powerful reminder that public education issues are not isolated to Minnesota, but are indeed reflective of concerns echoed nationwide. The efforts from Freedom Schools across various states showcase the effectiveness of grassroots activism, empowering young people by equipping them with the skills and knowledge to advocate for their interests. Looking Ahead: The Future of Education and Advocacy As we consider the outcomes from the rally, it’s essential to reflect on the long-term impacts of civic engagement initiatives like CDF Freedom Schools. Emanuell Williams, Senior Manager for Youth Development at CDF-MN, emphasizes, "Real change begins when we raise our voices and push for policies that uplift every student." Encouraging students to initiate discussions regarding their educational future is crucial for advancing equitable policies. Taking Action: Supporting Our Youth and Education Today For families in Denver and beyond, this rally signifies a growing movement advocating for the education system that young people deserve. It calls upon parents, educators, and community members to engage with local schools and lawmakers. By participating in discussions and advocating for robust education funding, families can contribute to an environment that empowers students while reaffirming that their voices matter starting from a young age. In a world increasingly demanding the voices of the young to be a part of the conversation, this rally amplifies that notion. Engaging support for public education and encouraging our children to stand up for their rights leads to a brighter and more equitable future. Let us stand together and not only hear their voices but also raise them high as advocates for change.