Photo credit : Stephanie Swan
Introduction
Education and Workforce Training Subcommittee Chair – Arely Cure
“ Being American is more than a pride we inherit , it ’ s the past we step into and how we repair it .” With these simple words , Amanda Gorman , Youth Poet Laureate , defined the exact purpose I found in the Unity Council to instill hope , ignite change , and with patience , repair existing disparities . The task of reducing racial disparities was a tall order but the desire for change that all 28 members transmitted through our virtual meetings were truly incredible – something that cannot always be accomplished , and will be hard to replicate . The ethnic , racial , and political diversity that existed among this extraordinary group of Arlington residents , allowed for productive conversations and sharing of personal experiences that can be seen throughout the entirety of this project .
Our Education Subcommittee was composed of current high school and college students , educators , and community advocates with a demographic background that reflected our city . From the beginning , we all had different angles we wanted to focus on the education disparity but through the various speakers , Dr . Tracy Brown and Dr . Ruth Turley , among others , we were able to get a wholesome view of the immediate issues that were root causes to the unbalanced equity .
We learned that the digital divide was more real now during this pandemic than ever before and an issue that will only get worse unless it is resolved . We learned that accessibility and awareness of resources for parents might be limited due to this divide . We learned that in schools with higher poverty percentages , the counselor to student ratio is too high to allow for any progress . We learned that many cities have completed full racial assessments and are implementing changes from curriculum to community events . And finally , we learned that school districts in our city are doing the work , are willing to hear community input , and need a partnership with city and community organizations . As a committee , we are excited to see these recommendations develop but more importantly to see change . A change that this community needs to truly reflect and represent equitable opportunities .
The Unity Council showed me that when a community unites to work together , be active listeners , and respect our differences we can accomplish so much . It is just like Amanda Gorman said being something “ is more than a pride we inherit ” but it is about coming up with actionable diligence that can and will mend areas where we have lost our way .
Unity Council Report 48