Reposted by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley
The statement by Rep. Ayanna Pressley addresses a significant public issue: the disparity in school discipline rates between Black and white girls. The statement is part of a broader conversation about the need for federal and state laws to ensure equity in school discipline, based on a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The tone is serious and data-driven, aiming to highlight systemic inequities and advocate for legislative action.
- The statement strives to do no harm by highlighting an existing harm (disparities in school discipline) and advocating for corrective measures. [+2]Principle 1:I will strive to do no harm with my words and actions.
- The statement respects the privacy and dignity of others by focusing on systemic issues rather than individual cases, avoiding cyberbullying, harassment, or hate speech. [+2]Principle 2:I will respect the privacy and dignity of others and will not engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or hate speech.
- The statement uses data to promote understanding, empathy, and compassion for the affected students, encouraging legislative action to address the disparities. [+2]Principle 3:I will use my words and actions to promote understanding, empathy, and compassion.
- The statement engages in constructive criticism of current disciplinary policies and calls for dialogue and action to address the inequities, without engaging in personal attacks. [+2]Principle 4:I will engage in constructive criticism and dialogue with those in disagreement and will not engage in personal attacks or ad hominem arguments.
- The statement uses the platform to advocate for societal betterment by pushing for equitable school discipline policies. [+2]Principle 6:I will use my influence for the betterment of society.