Virginia Beach students advocate for DEI programs at school board meeting

The Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) Board meeting on May 27, 2025, became a platform for passionate student voices advocating for the continuation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. The public comment section highlighted the urgent need for these initiatives, as students expressed their concerns about the potential negative impacts of banning DEI.

Liz Daughtry, a tenth-grade student at Green Run High School, opened the discussion by sharing her struggles with social anxiety but emphasized the importance of justice and fairness in education. She argued that DEI programs are essential for supporting all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. "Banning DEI harms students of color, girls, students with disabilities, the homeless, and anyone facing barriers to success," she stated, urging the board to recognize the critical role these programs play in fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Madison Astrea, a junior from Bruce Colonial High School, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for schools to be sanctuaries where diverse identities are celebrated. She called for the implementation of DEI policies to ensure that all students have the opportunity to express themselves and grow. Astrea also introduced the East Coast Debate Initiative, a student-led organization aimed at amplifying student voices through speech and debate.

Hattie Friedman, another student speaker, passionately defended DEI, using sports as an analogy to illustrate the importance of equity over equality. She argued that providing support to those who need it does not diminish opportunities for others but rather enhances the overall learning environment.

Nash Phillips, a graduating senior, criticized the board's recent actions regarding DEI, warning that the move towards homogenizing educational opportunities could lead to a decline in public education quality. He expressed concern that the board's decisions could disenfranchise minority students and perpetuate systemic inequalities.

The meeting underscored a growing divide in the community regarding educational policies, particularly around DEI. As students rallied for support, their messages resonated with the broader goal of ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. The board's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of education in Virginia Beach, as they navigate the balance between community values and the need for inclusive practices.