We Went to D.C. Because Our Lives Are on the Line
While families across the country are in full summer mode — attending barbecues, vacations, and fireworks shows — my son and I were in Washington D.C., standing in the sweltering heat, not for celebration, but for survival.
Amidst political parades and raids on our rights, we showed up.
I stood on the steps of the U.S. Senate alongside my son, surrounded by parents, teachers, and students from across the country. We weren’t just there to rally — we were there to protect our children’s futures from devastating federal budget cuts.
I wasn’t there as the Executive Director of MindShiftED Parent Institute. I was there as a mother. A mother whose 14-year-old son, Voozeki, lives with severe disabilities and relies on Medicaid for everything — from life-sustaining medical care to the AAC device that finally gave him a voice. Cuts to this program don’t just hurt us. They endanger us.
My 15-year-old son, Vurukai, also stood beside me — proud, powerful, and honest. He spoke about how school meals, fine arts, and academic support have kept him afloat in a Title I school. He talked about the moment his younger brother spoke for the first time, thanks to Medicaid — and what it would mean to rip that away from other families.
We were joined by:
Senator Mark Kelly (Arizona)
Jillian Rainingbird (advocate and LinkedIn connection here)
Teachers from Educators for Excellence (Texas and Brooklyn chapters)
Leaders from Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC)
Ma’at Lands, educator from Rooted School Indianapolis
Hosted by EdPwr and the Protecting and Improving Education (PPE) Coalition, the rally called out:
$4.5 billion in cuts to elementary education
Elimination of preschool special ed and English learner funding
67% reduction in federal oversight
Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP
Voucher programs Lack little to no accountability and do not ensure access for allchildren
This isn’t just a policy issue. It’s a survival issue.
Thanks to National Parents Union for lifting our voices at the Capitol. We will keep showing up — because our kids can’t afford for us to stay silent.
🎥 Watch the rally: https://youtu.be/Squ0R1jNl7Y
