Hoʻokaulike: Building Equity in Schools

The Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association Human and Civil Rights (HCR) Committee, in partnership with the NEA Community Advocacy and Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Department, is excited to launch Hoʻokaulike: Building Equity in Schools.

Overview

Our year-long initiative aims to build a network of strong, committed, passionate educators across Hawaiʻi working collaboratively across and within their communities to build solidarity, foster understanding, educate, advocate, and empower students of marginalized groups in our diverse communities.

Join us for our Oʻahu summit

On July 25–26, the HSTA HCR Committee will host a two-day conference at Ala Moana Hotel on Oʻahu for dozens of HSTA members and member leaders. Flights and double-occupancy hotel accommodations will be provided for neighbor-island members until we reach capacity.

Day 1 will focus on learning and gathering inspiration as members, community organizers, and youth share their insights on various racial and social justice topics. Day 2 will focus on organizing and networking with dedicated time for participants from the same island and/or chapter to build their local network and develop a targeted advocacy project.

Ideas may include advocating for policy changes at the school, county, or state level, launching and connecting student clubs (such as GSAs or culture-based clubs), or developing a youth-oriented program with community partners. Already working on something? Invite your colleagues and/or bring your ideas to share!

Registration for this summit opens May 1!

Community projects

The HCR Committee will organize collaboration and training opportunities throughout the school year, including virtual presentations on racial and social justice topics. HCR will provide funding whenever possible, and committee representatives will support project-related work and events.

Participants are expected to communicate regularly with the committee and report on their progress throughout the year. The committee will host virtual check-ins to keep track of each team’s progress and provide support where needed.