Ron Reynolds: DEI confronts the legacy of Jim Crow

We need DEI programs to help remedy decades of Jim Crow policies that led to underinvestment in Black and Brown students. As a lawmaker, a parent, and a member of a community that has felt the sting of systemic injustices, it’s time to confront the uncomfortable truths of our past and pave the way toward a more just future, especially in our education system. Centuries of discriminatory policies stemming from systemic racism have left lasting scars on Black and Brown communities. State-sanctioned policies have deprived generations of students of the opportunities they deserve. These policies have relegated students to inferior schools, underfunded classrooms, and a future shrouded in inequality. Today, the echoes of those injustices still reverberate in our educational institutions. Despite progress, glaring disparities persist, with Black and Brown students disproportionately facing barriers to success. It’s time to acknowledge that simply removing overtly discriminatory laws is not enough. We must actively work to dismantle the systemic biases and structures that continue to perpetuate inequality. This is where& diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs become not just an educational necessity but also a moral imperative. By embracing DEI initiatives in our schools, we acknowledge the unique challenges marginalized communities face...