In a recent episode of On Point with Juandolyn Stokes, host Juandolyn Stokes spoke with Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan and Dr. Adrienne Simmons to discuss the status of Advanced Placement African American Studies courses being removed from Georgia schools. These ladies shared their personal perspectives as member of the Community, Mothers and Black Women. However, in a surprising turn of events, "Hot off the press" Dr. Simmons stated, State Superintendent Richard Woods announced that the courses would in fact be added back into the curriculum. Georgia's Attorney General, Chris Carr confirmed that a new Advanced Placement course in African American Studies does not violate the state's law against teaching divisive racial concepts.
The conversation was initially centered around the disappointment and frustration expressed by Dr. Johnson-Morgan and Dr. Simmons regarding the removal of these important courses. They emphasized the significance of Advanced Placement African American Studies in providing students with a comprehensive understanding of African American history and culture. The removal of these courses was seen as a step backward in the fight for racial justice and equality in education. Dr. Adrienne Simmons stated the history of the course and how the pilot was initiated last year with praise from students, parents and the community.
Although the AP African American courses has been added and fully funded, Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan made it plain that the "Fight is not over" and encouraged the community to take action with Gwinnett Progressives and reach out to Governor Kemp and State Legislatures and help repeal House Bill 1084 that focuses on "divisive concepts" and Senate Bill 226 that correlates with "book bans". "Our students deserve the truth" stated Dr. Johnson-Morgan.
The conversation on On Point with Juandolyn Stokes exemplified the power of dialogue and advocacy in driving positive change. As Dr. Johnson-Morgan stated "Reflective of the Power of the People". The news of the courses being added back into Georgia schools is a testament to the importance of representation and diversity in education, and a reminder of the ongoing fight for racial justice in schools.
