SJAFS Event On LET FREEDOM READ DAY
With generous assistance from the SEE Alliance, the Social Justice Alliance, and the Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota, we pulled off a successful BANNED BOOKS WEEK event on Saturday, September 28th. This freedom-themed program in Sarasota included the three speakers pictured and introductions by Carrie Seidman and David Brostrom. This was an in-person event, and a large number of people also took advantage of the live streaming.
The speakers were enthusiastically welcomed! Liz Barker spoke passionately about the reasons we must marshall support for the public school system, parents, kids, and teachers, and be actively involved in education at a local level. She also shared examples of censorship, her homeschooled upbringing, and her upcoming position on the Sarasota County School Board.
Martha Bireda focused on the myths and constructs of race, and other historically-challenging topics. She also posed the question; “Why the fear of teaching true American History?” And her fascinating experience studying the schools in Cuba.
Jennifer Jenkins told stories about speaking her truths as a progressive member of the Brevard County School Board. And how she became the target of many who disagreed with her stances. These adversaries went to disturbing lengths to discredit, blame, and shame her/and her family. She explained why and how she created and became the leader of the political action organization, ‘Educated. We Stand,’ and how this organization endorsed and aided like-minded school board candidates around Florida, including our two races.
At present, the SJAFS does not have a specific large-scale program or event planned for the near future, but after the November elections, one may be forthcoming.