We invite you to join us throughout this month commemorating Black August, a time to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and justice before us. Embracing the spirit of Black August, we aim to cultivate what Black August cofounder Mama Ayanna Mashama called “revolutionary consciousness” – a powerful awareness that fuels our ongoing struggle for equity and justice in education. At AQE, Black August underscores the connection between the fight for Black liberation and the pursuit of a high-quality, equitable public education system for all.
Throughout Black August, we will be holding a series of conversations with individuals whose impactful work has significantly advanced the liberation struggle of Black and brown New Yorkers. We will also share various opportunities for you to engage with and honor Black August, supporting the broader fight for justice.
Today at 7 PM, we encourage you to tune into an event hosted by the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement. This gathering will feature Black elders, Black revolutionary organizers, and former political prisoners to reflect on the 45-year history of Black August. It’s bound to offer valuable insights into how we can honor the origins of Black August while also addressing contemporary challenges.
The injustices highlighted each Black August are deeply entwined with the systemic inequities that continue to affect our schools and communities. These racial inequities contribute to disparities in public education, whitewashed curricula, attacks on culturally responsive and sustaining education, and the perpetuation of a school-to-prison pipeline. Each of these issues, both individually and together, disproportionately affect Black, brown, low-income, and immigrant students. As we honor Black August, we reaffirm our commitment to ending systemic racism and economic oppression in New York’s public schools.
Stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved in the ongoing fight for equity and justice in public education. Let’s use this month to deepen our understanding of our collective history, challenge anti-Blackness in our communities, and work together to create a more equitable and liberated future for all students.