Oppose SB 12 & SB 1565 - Protect DEI in Texas Schools

I urge you to oppose Senate Bills 12 and 1565, which seek to ban Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Texas K-12 public schools. DEI encompasses a broad spectrum, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. Teaching our children the value of inclusion is not only morally right but also essential for fostering empathy, understanding, and social awareness among students. Research indicates that inclusive educational environments enhance critical thinking and overall academic achievement. By interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds, students develop essential social skills and are better prepared for a multicultural workforce. Banning DEI programs would deprive our children of these vital experiences and hinder their personal growth. Moreover, DEI initiatives help close academic opportunity gaps, ensuring all students have equal access to quality education. An equitable approach, enriched by diversity, is crucial for the success of our educational system and, by extension, our state’s future. I implore you to consider the long-term benefits of DEI and vote against SB 12 and SB 1565 to uphold the principles of inclusivity and equality in our schools.