Time for Action
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
-Harriet Tubman
I love to run. Since high school running has been a big part of my life. You can often find me on the streets of Stoughton early in the morning or on some of the local trails in the woods. Running gives me time to reflect and has often been my salvation.
Aside from dressing warmly in the winter and wearing bright colors before hitting the pavement, I have never given much thought to my running attire. I bring this up after the horrific events that unfolded in Georgia when Mr. Ahmaud Arbery was murdered while out for a run in his neighborhood. The circumstances surrounding Mr. Arbery’s death became known to the world when video evidence emerged in May and cries for justice grew louder. (https://www.thecut.com/2020/05/ahmaud-arbery-shooting-georgia-explainer.html).
As I learned more about Mr. Arbery, I was struck by my own naivete. I have never thought about what I wear when running because I have never felt threatened when I’m out for a jog. Digging a little deeper, I learned many black men carefully consider their running outfits before leaving their homes. One of my friends asked me, “Haven’t you ever wondered why I often wear GAP t-shirts when I go running?” In fact, no, I had never wondered this.
Learning is a lifelong process and I am acutely aware of how much I have to learn. The peaceful protests and vigils occurring around the Stoughton community and the country-at-large gives me hope that systemic change is possible in our society. Now is the time to act. Let’s work together as one school community to tend our own garden- the one we have the most control over. Now, more than ever, we need all our voices to come together and create a vision within the Gibbons School for all students to reach their full potential. For all students to find their voice. After all, our students are our best hope for lasting change.
A virtual parent forum was held on June 11th that focused on systemic racism and social injustice. Over sixty members of the Stoughton Public School community were able to participate and action steps for the school district moving forward were discussed. If you were unable to attend this forum and have a question or concern, please reach out to me at d_guglia@stoughtonschools.org or 781-344-7008. More community forums and parent workshops will be planned as we approach the new school year.
Finally, I offer my deep appreciation and gratitude to all the parents, grandparents and caregivers that supported your children at home during this unprecedented time.
DG
