5.3 "No one lets go ..."
A reminder for all of us, and a special call to action for those working in schools
As the election results started to roll in, and it was clear that swing states were turning to the Republicans, we started to hear commentators talk about who was to blame. And then, just as quickly, I started to hear the call: "No one lets go of anyone's hand."
The slogan comes from Brazil, accredited to the artist Thereza Nardelli, popularized after the 2018 election of President Jair Bolsonaro. Nardelli encouraged factions in the coalition fighting Bolsonaro to put aside their differences, to avoid infighting, and to ensure that none would be pit against the other.
Where we have been in coalition, we have to stay together. When the Trump administration targets the most vulnerable, we have to make sure to protect each other.
Perhaps among the most urgent issues, and one I know many of my friends are affected by -
Trump promises to use federal authority to round up and deporting immigrants; he has not demonstrated any concern for those immigrants who might be in the United States legally.
I want to encourage people in schools to remember that their students have rights, and that teachers, administrators, and security guards have a responsibility and opportunity to both keep children safe and let them know that you'll help to keep them safe.
I encourage you to be aware of the guidance offered by the United Federation of Teachers, and even moreso by the local school districts. Friends in New York, check out the guidance from the NYC Public Schools (NYCPS) about non-local law enforcement agents including ICE personnel. Please forward guidance from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to your friends and colleagues there, as many suspect Illinois and Chicago in particular will be among the first cities targeted.
And beyond being aware, please consider sharing this with:
your principal, and ask them to share it with the staff before school starts in the morning;
your colleagues, who may want to share it with their students if that's appropriate and if students are anxious.
the security at your building in the morning as you walk in.
Your student and parent leadership, so that they can share it amongst themselves.
Parents, administrators, teachers, school staff, and security - we have been collaborating for a long time. We work every day, hand in hand. And now, especially, we should affirm: no one is going to let go of anyone else's hand.
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No one let’s go if anyone’s hand! Thank you.