Defending Democracy in Rhode Island Schools: Understanding and Responding to Right-Wing Influence on School Committees
A Panel Discussion by Teach Truth RI
January 30, 2025
For years MAGA-aligned groups have been challenging public education through book bans, the dismantling of DEI initiatives, and policies targeting transgender students. While Rhode Island is traditionally considered a liberal state, we are not insulated from these right-wing attacks on public education. Tonight we have brought together three distinguished panelists who have been deeply involved in defending education in Rhode Island.
Steve Ahlquist: A veteran progressive journalist with over a decade of experience covering Rhode Island politics, social movements, and justice issues. Through his extensive reporting, he has documented the increasing presence of right-wing activists in Rhode Island school committees.
Jocelyn Foye: Cofounder and executive director of The Womxn Project and The Womxn Project Education Fund. Her organization's Bodily Freedom Forever Index offers valuable analysis of elected officials across the state and where they stand on supporting human rights.
Jennifer Lima: A current North Kingstown School Committee member who champions inclusive policies and mental health resources in schools. Jen will offer insight into how to become more involved with the school committee in your city or town. She is also the founder and president of Towards an Anti-Racist North Kingstown, nonprofit focused on anti-racist policy reform, and co-founder of the Teach Truth Rhode Island Coalition.
video by Corey Gaitonde