Families In Schools (FIS) is built on principles of equity, social justice, and fairness. We work every day to elevate the voices of parents, especially from low-income and immigrant communities, in education decision-making and provide tools and trainings to schools to ensure all families are welcomed and treated with respect and dignity. The national election has been a gut-check for all of us that work in this field because it is a direct threat to our work and our values. Of immediate concern is the possibility that the new administration will ramp-up deportations and push-back immigration policies (such as DACA) that will break-up many of the families we serve. Further, the xenophobic tone of the election can elevate the racism and intolerance that many families already face at their children’s schools. More than ever, the work of FIS is critical to defend and support the communities we serve.
FIS will take some immediate next steps to ensure we are ready to address the needs of the families we serve:
- FIS will convene a series of meetings with parents & students to hear from them about their worries and concerns and how FIS can help
- FIS will reach out to other nonprofits to explore how we can collaborate in advocacy initiatives and/or in the dissemination of critical information/resources
- FIS will fast-track the development of training modules for teachers and school staff that address issues of welcoming environment, empathy and social justice
FIS will need partners and supporters like you who can help us meet these goals. Please contact me personally at ocruz@familiesinschools.org if you would like to support these efforts in any way possible. I firmly believe that FIS, as a part of a strong civil society, can be the antidote to the venom of racism, sexism and other -isms we are witnessing across the nation!
Sincerely,
Oscar E. Cruz
President & CEO
Families In Schools
