Social Justice is described as an analysis of morality in
the distribution of economic resources and opportunities among different
persons and class structures. Global supporters call for reformation in
societies of inequality, exposing violations of human rights and denial of
dignity for every human being. In the United States, it is the cry of the
oppressed while fighting battles for adequate living conditions and equal
educational opportunities in a land supposed to be brave and free.
As you read this blog, community schools in urban areas are
being cannibalized, restructured and given a larger budget to become magnet schools.
Some communities embrace the idea until realizing enrollment often requires the
child to qualify for attendance or bus to school in another community. Other
schools like Crenshaw High School have fought against the transition to
maintain integrity established during the civil rights movement. The school
provides community services, peer support programs and an English learning
program. Despite low scores on No Child Left Behind assessments, Crenshaw was
award for being one of the best urban schools and home of the first student to
produce a student based application for cell phones. It is supported by
parents, grassroots programs and alumni.
Recently, the LAUSD decided to divide the school into three
separate magnet schools. The community was outraged. Protests were met with
thirty-three layoffs and strategy meetings that diverted adversity. Fear of
unemployment and retaliation towards students disbanded the opposition.
Instead of supporting Crenshaw by investing funds to
continue student development in an environment appreciated by the community,
LAUSD disregarded the pleading public and exercised tactics that negatively
impacted students, teachers and discontinued beneficial programs. This agency
is supposed to work on behalf of the community not become the hand of
affliction while people strive to concur an oppressive situation. This school
is a pillar of pride and resource worthy of saving, especially when its destruction
would destabilize a community.
In a socially just environment, this would not be debated. I
disbelieve it would be an issue. Social justice requires equal distribution of
resources, wealth and opportunity. With proper allocation of funds, Crenshaw
High School and others like it would be powerful forces. They would serve as
beacons of light for other communities.
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