1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I urge you to vote against SB 12 and SB 1565, the bills that would ban diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Texas K-12 public schools. These misguided proposals undermine efforts to create inclusive learning environments that value all students. Schools should be places where every child feels welcomed, represented and able to succeed regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation. Banning acknowledgment of these core aspects of identity does a disservice to our students and communities. DEI programs aim to ensure all students have equal access to educational opportunities and a sense of belonging. They do not push any sort of "woke agenda" as claimed, but rather promote understanding, respect and an appreciation for our state's rich diversity. Prohibiting this work will only breed further division, discrimination and marginalization in our school systems. We should be empowering educators to build supportive, culturally-responsive learning spaces - not tying their hands with unnecessary, harmful restrictions. These bills represent an overreach of state authority into local school matters and a step backwards for educational equity in Texas. I encourage you to stand against this legislative attack on inclusion and reject SB 12 and SB 1565. Our children deserve better.