IFT Expresses Solidarity with Students Who Walked Out Against Racism After Multiple Incidents at Sporting Events

WESTMONT — Following multiple reports of racist incidents at two Illinois schools over the weekend, Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) and Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) President Stacy Davis Gates issued the following statement:

“On behalf of our 107,000 members, the IFT stands in solidarity with the students at Lincoln-Way East who walked out against racism today.

Students should be able to walk the halls of their schools and compete in gymnasiums, athletic fields and stadiums knowing they belong there, having no question about the support and the values of their school communities, and without being subjected to acts of demeaning discrimination, disrespect, or aggression from anyone.

Schools and their sporting events are places where students are meant to find their voice, build confidence, learn to work as a team, and are supposed to be where they learn their shared responsibility to challenge discrimination as civic participants that make communities better and more welcoming, not the opposite.

Students protesting today courageously called on the adults in their lives to do better, not just in the wake of isolated incidents but in what they are exposing to be persisting problems that we all must confront together. Whether it is specific incidents, lack of culturally responsive curriculum, or discriminatory discipline policies, the adults in our schools and communities should listen and follow their lead.

When we take on the responsibility of educating young people in public schools, we take on the responsibility for creating safe, welcoming, and respectful spaces. The best way to do that is to teach antiracism as a cornerstone, name racism when we see it, confront it, and address it head-on.”

While the IFT does not represent workers at the two schools in question, we understand that educators everywhere are likely responding to young people who have questions about the incidents. We sent educational resources to our members in an email earlier today that shared resolutions committing to antiracism and curricula and sample conversation guides to reinforce schools and sports as places where students learn to challenge discrimination as part of a more equitable community where everyone is welcomed.

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