Learning for Justice

States are primarily responsible for education, but the U.S. Department of Education is the federal agency that plays a vital role in establishing policies, ensuring accountability and promoting equal access to education. The establishment of the?department as a Cabinet-level agency?in 1980 emphasized the federal government’s commitment to, and our national prioritization of, education. The dismantling of the Department of Education will only further erode the equality of education, upend protections for some of our most vulnerable students, like those with disabilities, and widen the educational opportunities gap for students from low-income families. Access Learning for Justice’s new resource, which dives deep into the Education Department’s roles and responsibilities. https://lnkd.in/gK6nZbRp #education, #democracy, #parenting, #socialjustice

“Limits on the president’s authority rely on the?separation of powers?and system of?checks and balances?between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. The integrity of elected officials in Congress and those appointed to the Supreme Court to honor the Constitution, rule of law and values of democracy is essential in checking the power of the presidency.” To evaluate a president’s ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the office, we must understand the role and responsibilities, powers and limits on power, and systems of accountability. We must also insist on accountability for our state representatives in Congress and those at all levels of government. Learn more with this Learning for Justice article: https://lnkd.in/g2HbJzxx #socialjustice, #democracy, #education

Every child in the United States has a right to an equitable (fair and just) public education. Improving educational excellence and outcomes for all students benefits our communities, nation and shared future. We all have a crucial role in advocating for the right to public education that fosters excellence and equity. The recommendations and information in this new Learning for Justice resource can help you learn more and take action:?lfj.pub/edu-advocacy #education, #socialjustice

"Pluralistic systems of political parties, organizations and media are essential for democracy to thrive because differing perspectives are a central feature of democracy. Understanding that pluralism is a core feature of the democratic process underscores how dialogue and the goal of building bridges across our differences are foundational to democracy." Learn more: lfj.pub/dialogue-democracy

"The Trump Administration’s latest attempt to destroy the U.S. Department of Education by going around Congress and firing its workforce is an attack on every child in our public schools.,” said SPLC President and CEO Margaret Huang. “These actions will also deprive millions of students of opportunities for a higher education.” Read our full statement: https://lnkd.in/gyji_ccK

The skill to have dialogue across our differences is crucial for a shared national identity built on?the values of democracy. A culture of dialogue creates opportunities to reach across our differences and to engage one another, which is crucial for strengthening democracy, especially in the face of growing authoritarianism. Embracing a national identity built on democratic values can help us recognize our shared humanity. This Learning for Justice resource summarizes key points in addressing the questions: What is dialogue across difference? How is dialogue foundational to democracy? Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dfCweBMC #education, #socialjustice, #parenting

Sign up for Learning for Justice newsletter to connect and find new resources to strengthen democracy, promote justice and provide opportunities for learning for everyone. All LFJ resources are available for free. Come learn with us! https://lfj.pub/newsletter #education, #socialjustice, #parenting

Opposition to equality is, unfortunately, not new to the history of the United States. Recognizing the relevance of history to today’s justice and civil rights movements is crucial for understanding and countering current pushbacks against democratic values. This Learning for Justice resource offers an overview and includes links for teaching and learning more about the hostile opposition to the Civil Rights Movement. Analyzing the opposition to justice can help us to understand the exceptional strength of the ordinary people who were part of the movement. Learn more: https://lfj.pub/41quGiF #education, #socialjustice

As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march, Learning for Justice offers this resource — "Selma: From the Bridge to the Ballot" — to understand the legacy of Selma. Learn more about the historical context, timeline of events in Selma, and the change that was achieved. And consider how can you make a difference in today's justice and democracy movements. Learn more: lfj.pub/selma #education, #socialjustice,

Realizing one’s own capacity for action is an essential disposition for responsible citizenship. This Learning for Justice introduction to action planning toolkit offers a structure for planning individual or collective action for change. As we connect with history and understand the strategies for nonviolent direct action used during the Civil Rights Movement, we can examine today’s justice issues and find ways to answer the question: “How can we plan democratic action in our communities to effect change?” Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e7-KEZ_t #education, #socialjustice