Massachusetts Educators Prepared to Protect Rights and Safety of All Students
Education leaders condemn Trump’s raids and hateful, divisive agenda
[BOSTON] – As educators across the country are reeling from the fear President Trump’s Administration is sowing in the nation’s schools and communities with threats of raids and mass deportations, American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts President Jessica Tang and Boston Teachers Union President Erik Berg released the following statement:
“We wholeheartedly condemn President Trump’s actions and the xenophobic and racist rhetoric being used to stoke fear and division throughout our nation.
“Boston – like many cities across Massachusetts and the nation – is a strong, vibrant community because of its wonderful diversity, not in spite of. That makes us and other communities like us a direct threat to the President’s narrative. Just days after being sworn in, President Trump is spending resources and time implementing his anti-worker, anti-immigrant agenda and the fear in our immigrant communities is palpable.
“As educators, we are focused on justice and equal opportunities for all students. We know firsthand that children cannot learn if they don’t feel safe. These threats take an emotional, psychological, and physical toll on our children and their families. If continued, they will have a chilling effect on our schools and communities.
“To the many families and children who may be living in fear right now: you are important, you matter, and you have rights. We are working to make sure our schools will remain safe spaces to learn and to go in times of need. We are here for you and we want you here.
“All children have a right to an education, no matter their immigration status. That right is protected by the U.S. Constitution and federal law prohibits anyone from attempting to restrict a child’s access to that education. Educators across the state and nation are ready to stand up and defend the rights and safety of their students.”