A Message From The Publisher
By Bobby R. Henry, Sr
Congratulations to the Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walsh, a dedicated educator, and military veteran who embodies a commitment to service and community welfare. As we celebrate exemplary leadership that prioritizes inclusivity and justice, it is crucial to reflect on similar values within our local institutions. The recent events within our school board have highlighted concerning disparities and biases that demand urgent scrutiny and action.
In scrutinizing the recent unfolding events within our school board, it has become abundantly clear that critical principles of fairness, transparency, and justice have been compromised. As a community, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the concerning actions of certain board members, particularly in matters where clear biases and dismissive attitudes have marred the decision-making process.
The treatment of Dr. Carletha Shaw-Rolle, a respected Black educator, serves as a distressing case study in how personal biases and perhaps incompetence can influence pivotal decisions within our school board. Debbie Hixon’s dismissive behavior, her rush to judgment without proper consideration of Dr. Shaw’s compelling arguments, and the apparent defamation of Dr. Shaw by presenting cleared accusations as facts cannot be excused. Whether driven by personal vendettas or sheer incompetence, such actions are simply unacceptable in an institution as crucial as our school board.
Further exacerbating these concerns is the suggestion that certain board members, including Hixon, may be unduly influenced by agendas that prioritize certain communities over others. The assertion that support for an individual like Brenda Norton is based on catering to the LGBTQ+ community while neglecting the rights and needs of the Black community is deeply troubling. Every marginalized community deserves equitable treatment, respect, and consideration in the decision-making processes of our educational institutions.
The financial repercussions faced by Dr. Shaw-Rolle, along with the systemic issues of retaliation and silencing dissent within Broward Schools, underscore the urgent need for change. The implications of allowing individuals like Hixon to continue exerting influence on our school board are far-reaching and detrimental to the welfare of our students, educators, and communities. It is imperative that we vote for candidates who prioritize fairness, ethics, and inclusivity in their governance.
In the upcoming elections, I echo the call to support candidates like Tom Vasquez and Torey Alston, individuals who demonstrate a commitment to upholding ethical standards and advocating for the well-being of all stakeholders in our educational system. As a collective voice, we must stand against injustices, biases, and negligence within our school board, paving the way for a more equitable and just educational environment for all.
Together, let us make our voices heard by casting votes that reflect our values and aspirations for a fair and inclusive educational system. Debbie Hixon may not be our choice, but by electing candidates who prioritize integrity and equity, we pave the way for a brighter future for Broward County’s schools and communities.
