On this day in 1907, the pioneering artist and activist Frida Kahlo was born. Today her iconic work and image are shared as examples of politically engaged art and unapologetic self-expression. Use this hook to talk about the role of artists in social justice activism. Cite the values of voice and community.
Tag: human rights
Trump’s Family Separation Policy
On this day in 2018, activists organized nationwide protests in opposition to the Trump administration’s family separation policy, which separated countless immigrant children from their parents and shed light on cruel practices that existed before and endured beyond Trump. Discuss this anniversary by citing the values of safety, equity, and community.
Furman v. Georgia
On this day in 1972, the Supreme Court struck down the death penalty, ruling in Furman v. Georgia that it was unconstitutional under the 8th and 14th Amendments. Justice William O. Douglas concluded that the death penalty “is disproportionately imposed and carried out on the poor, the Negro, and the members of unpopular groups.” Four years later, the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty on the idea that it was constitutional under the 8th Amendment. Discuss this anniversary by citing the values of equity, safety, voice, and community.
Muslim Ban
On this day in 2018, the Supreme Court upheld the third iteration of President Trump’s “Muslim Ban.” Previously, lower federal courts had found each iteration to be blatantly anti-Muslim, unconstitutional, and an abuse of the president’s power. Although the Biden Administration rescinded Trump’s order, this date remains important given the persistence of anti-Muslim discrimination. Discuss this anniversary by citing the values of voice, equity, and community.
World Refugee Day
Recognized annually on this day, World Refugee Day commemorates the strength, courage, and perseverance of millions of refugees. From the impacts of climate change to fleeing violence, connect this international observance to what’s happening in the United States and across the world. Cite the values of community, safety, and opportunity when discussing this.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved Americans gained their freedom in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Today’s celebrations provide the opportunity to discuss the enduring legacies of racial injustice. Join the conversation, citing the values of opportunity, equity, voice, and community.
Plyler v. Doe
On this day in 1982, the Supreme Court ruled in the case of Plyler v. Doe that states could not deny public education to students who were not legally admitted into the country. Doing so, they said, violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. Since the ruling only applied to K-12 students, other court cases and legislation made it possible for some states to deny undocumented students access to in-state tuition, scholarships, or enrollment at public colleges and universities. Cite the values of voice, equity, and community on this date.
DACA Announced by Pres. Obama
On this day in 2012, President Obama announced the creation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows those who arrived as children — many of whom know no homeland other than the United States — to live and contribute to their communities without fear of deportation. Advocates continue to call on Congress to create a permanent solution for DACA recipients and their families. For information on the status of the program, follow the National Immigration Law Center and United We Dream. Discuss this anniversary by referring to the values of voice, community, and opportunity.
Reagan’s Berlin Wall Speech
On this day in 1987, President Ronald Reagan gave his famous “Tear Down this Wall” speech in Berlin. Although Reagan was addressing the Communist bloc, it’s worth noting that this Republican president publicly challenged the idea of using walls to separate or isolate people, stating, “The wall cannot withstand freedom.” Use this anniversary to talk about the needs of U.S.-Mexico border communities and how wall rhetoric and militarization threatens safety and freedom for the millions who call the region home or arrive seeking protection. Cite the values of opportunity, safety, and community.
Kalief Browder
On this day in 2015, Kalief Browder took his own life after spending three years in New York’s Rikers Island jail. Browder had been awaiting trial for stealing a backpack and spent two years in solitary confinement. Supporters point to Browder’s incarceration as the source of his mental health struggle. Cite the values of equity and safety on this date.
