Last week, we introduced our #PublicSchoolsSaveDemocracy campaign, we shared our bonfire shop where you can buy gear that supports our work while showing your support for integration and public education as well as our invitation to sustainably support our work.
We want to talk a little bit more specifically about why we believe INTEGRATED public schools save democracy
Why Public Schools (and Integration) Matter for Democracy
- They belong to all of us. Public schools are accountable to the people, not private interests. At their best, they ensure every child, regardless of zip code or family income, gets an education that can open doors to opportunities. Every citizen has a right to participate in, be served by, and hold our schools accountable.
- They bring us together. Public schools are one of the last remaining institutions where children from all walks of life can come together, side by side. As Thurgood Marshall said, “Unless our children learn together, there is little hope our people will ever learn to live together.”
- They teach civic responsibility. Democracy requires engaged citizens. Public schools are where we begin teaching children not just the mechanics of government, but the values of citizenship, like critical thinking, empathy, and respect for others, especially those with whom we disagree, or those we are different from.
- They promote opportunity and fairness. Public schools are, at their core, about opportunity. They have the potential to offer every child a fair shot, regardless of their background, in pursuit of their potential. They remind us that an integrated society, an equitable society, is a stronger society.
The reality is, public education is under attack. From systemic funding cuts to policies that undermine the foundation of public schools, it’s easy to feel like the fight is too big to win. Yet this is precisely why we must act. WE NEED ALL OF US IN THIS FIGHT.
Many of our long time followers might remember our blog post from Integrated Schools founder, Courtney Mykytyn, called 3.5%, Gratitude, & Shape-Shifting Reptiles. Also, our podcast episode , All I Want for Christmas is 3.5% from 2019. Both the episode and the blog post are definitely worth revisiting, but here is the gist:
“The work of creating a multiracial democracy – a democracy where power is truly shared, and equity is real – can feel overwhelming, depressing, futile even. But what if the tipping point for creating lasting change is only 3.5%? Dr. Chenoweth (Harvard University) found that no civil resistance campaign across the globe over the last century “failed after they had achieved the active and sustained participation of just 3.5% of the population”… She argues that the “visibility of civil resistance actions attracts more active and diverse participation from the ambivalent.” Activism builds on activism. Momentum breeds momentum. 3.5% is the tipping point.To hold our most public of public institutions accountable to equity and justice – to combat school segregation – we are gathering the 3.5%. Creating enduring political change — like an end to school segregation — begins with just 3.5% of actively engaged participants. Can we do it?”
It’s not just about one person or one family. It’s about community— about continuing to grow our movement. Sadly, these were some of the last thoughts shared by our founder Courtney Mykytyn’s before her untimely passing. And as we face an uncertain future, we know our call to action remains unchanged.
Right now, we’re at a critical moment. As we face existential challenges to our public schools, we can’t afford to be passive. We need every one of us—parents, educators, and community members—to take action. Not JUST in support of public schools, but demanding integrated, fully funded, public schools for all kids.
So here’s how you can help:
JOIN OUR MOVEMENT: If you are reading this blog post, you are already a part of this community. This is an opportunity to connect with us for more support around desegregating your kids, integrating your family, or advocating for integration. Have you participated in our Caregiver Connection program? Have you taken the Two Tour Pledge? Have you ever attended our book club? Maybe you are considering being a network contact for your area? Or thinking about joining or starting a chapter? THIS IS THE SIGN YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!
Wear the Message: May 17th marks the anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark decision that struck down segregation in schools and affirmed the idea that public schools are a cornerstone of democracy. On this day, we remember the work of those who fought for a more just, more equal society—and we honor that work by continuing it. It was also Courtney’s birthday. On May 17, wear your “Public Schools Save Democracy” shirt. It’s not just a shirt—it’s a statement of belief, a call to action.
Share Your Story: Post a photo, use the hashtag #PublicSchoolsSaveDemocracy, and share why integrated public schools matter to you and your community. Let’s make sure the world knows this message. You can also email us at hello@integratedschools.org
Get Involved Locally: Share this with your friends, neighbors, family. Make signs for protests, for your car, for your front yard. Schools are where the work happens. Ask your community to show up on May 17, too. This is about more than just one day—it’s about making this a movement. This is where we grow that 3.5%
Speak Up: Whether it’s at a school board meeting or with your local leaders, now is the time to make your voice heard. Speak out for integration, for public schools, speak out for democracy. We have lots of content available for you to use and share, like our Awkward Conversations Guide.
Support the Movement: Join us as a sustaining contributor. Your ongoing support will help us continue to advocate for integration, public education, and the future of our democracy. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps keep this work going.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we can make sure integrated public schools continue to be a force for good in our democracy—for today and for future generations.
Let’s get to work.
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The last thing we need to is defund education, if anything we should be investing more into public schools with equal education for all students and equitable wages for teachers.