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Weekly Policy Postcard - 10/25/2025
- Carol Tappenden
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
Claiming Visibility, Defending Inclusion
This week’s stories remind us that visibility has always been both a mirror and a battleground. Queer communities have fought to be seen—not for recognition alone, but to demand safety, dignity, and the freedom to live and learn without fear. That fight continues in our schools today.
While we honor the generations who built the foundations of queer visibility, we’re also watching local decisions that threaten to roll back the progress they made possible. The Peoria Unified School District board’s proposed ban on “diversity, equity, and inclusion” programs is part of a broader effort to erase conversations about identity and belonging from classrooms. Our work is to make sure that doesn’t happen—to show up, speak out, and keep public education rooted in truth, compassion, and equity for every student.
Read on for this week’s feature article on queer history, the latest school board developments, and how you can take action to defend inclusive education across Arizona.
🌈 Feature Article We’re a Target Because They See Us. And Our Power.
Queer visibility didn’t emerge overnight—it was built through generations of struggle, resistance, and community care. From hidden love letters and underground bars to public uprisings and global Pride movements, queer people have continually reshaped culture, law, and language to claim space in a world that often tried to erase them. This week’s featured article traces how visibility has always been both a triumph and a risk—and why understanding queer history is essential to protecting our future.
🏫 School Board Action Peoria Unified Board Moves Forward on Policy to Ban DEI
At its October 23 meeting, the Peoria Unified School District board held the first reading of a proposed policy that would prohibit any district programs, curricula, or professional development explicitly focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Educators, parents, and community members spoke out strongly against the measure, warning it would harm students, limit teacher training, and put the district out of compliance with state and federal education laws.
Board President Heather Rooks and members Bull and Toby defended the proposal as a way to prevent “discriminatory practices” and keep taxpayer funds from supporting DEI-related initiatives. Other board members urged caution, noting the policy’s vague definitions and potential legal conflicts. The superintendent will return with a revised version for second reading and vote at the next Board Meeting on Thursday November 13th, 2025 at 6 PM. If you are interested in speaking during the public comment section of this meeting and would like support with talking points, email policy@justschools.org.
📺 Watch this section of the meeting (begins around 54:00): Peoria Unified School District Board Meeting – October 23, 2025
👉 Take action: Apply to become a Just Schools Hall Monitor and help track what’s happening in your district. We’ll train you to spot red flags, understand policy decisions, and share reports that strengthen our collective advocacy for inclusive, well-funded schools.
🗳️ Civic Engagement: Local Elections
📬 Maricopa County voters: ballots for the all-mail election went out on Oct. 8 and should be mailed back by Oct. 28.
This election deals with bonds that fund essential services like hospitals and schools. Government bonds are repaid with tax dollars over time – and they shape whether our communities have the resources they need to thrive.
Vote from your couch or kitchen table your ballot, your voice, your power!
🧾 Civic Literacy: Discrimination & Harassment Complaint Form
Queer and trans students continue to face harassment and discrimination in classrooms and on playing fields. These are not rites of passage – they’re violations of students’ rights.
By documenting incidents, we make it impossible for institutions to deny what’s happening. If you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or harassment at school, consider filing a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division.
📰 In the News
💪 Stand With Students
Every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and seen at school. Your involvement, whether as a Hall Monitor, volunteer, or donor – keeps that promise alive. Get involved today!
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