Voices That Matter

The ASBA “Voices That Matter Campaign” was created to honor voices, emotions and experiences on racial injustice in the United States.
ASBA condemns racism and police brutality against black people. Along with our community, we mourn the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and the endless list of black lives lost as a direct result of racism, white supremacy, and systemic oppression.
Black, brown and other underrepresented voices in our schools must be amplified. This campaign is one opportunity to do this and help our staff and members express themselves and heal through these difficult times.

Devin Del Palacio

Tolleson USHD Board Member/NSBA Black Council Chair

My experience with race and racial injustice is very personal. As a kid, I was taught to behave a certain way when interacting with the police. Such as don’t run and don’t make any sudden movements. These actions didn’t click for me until I was an adult and was pulled over multiple times for fitting the description be it my car, my clothes, or just my appearance. One can’t help but wonder what would have happened if I didn’t follow the rules my mom told me at a young age. Especially as I think of Brionna Taylor, Ahmad Arbury, and George Floyd who all fit a “description” we know it didn’t end well for them.

As education leaders and governing board members we have a responsibility to tear down systemic barriers that prevent our education system from achieving true equity. As school board members we help shape the minds of the future. We have the power to ensure we are creating good human beings. I believe it will be the next generation to eradicate racism, but in order for that to happen as adults we must create a lane for them to drive the vehicle of change right through our state and our nation.

As the late Congressman John Lewis said “When we see something wrong, we must speak up and speak out”.

Silence is no longer an option for those in the education world. We must speak up and speak out.