On April 15, 2023, Louisiana Republican Party officials voted to prohibit the study of racism at colleges and universities. Quickly after, Louisiana GOP Representative Valerie Hodges submitted House Resolution 13,  which “requests school-level reporting by public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools relative to programs and activities related to critical race theory; diversity, equity, and inclusion; or transformative social emotional learning.”

Leaders of Color strongly condemns the resolution requiring schools to report programs related to critical race theory (CRT), diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), or transformative social emotional learning to the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) and Board of Regents. We believe that this resolution is an attack on education and an attempt to silence important conversations about race and equity in our schools.

The mandated reporting is an unnecessary burden on schools, especially those already facing significant resource constraints. Additionally, the resolution will discourage schools from implementing important programs that are crucial to creating inclusive learning environments.

We believe in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. The LDOE and Board of Regents should focus on supporting schools in implementing these programs, not punishing them for doing so.

We call on Louisiana’s elected leaders - and elected leaders around the nation - to commit to their oath of office that requires they serve all members of their constituencies, and instead work towards creating a more equitable education system for all students.

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