Cal Poly Humboldt student tells Human Rights Commission racism harms children; urges DEI support and community action

Carla Rubio, a student at Cal Poly Humboldt, told the Humboldt County Human Rights Commission that racism takes multiple forms and that its effects on children are immediate and long-lasting. "If you're not careful, the newspaper will have you hating the people who are being oppressed and loving the people who are doing the oppress," Rubio said, citing a Malcolm X line she used to frame the talk.

Rubio outlined individual racism (personal beliefs and actions), institutional racism (policies and practices that disadvantage groups) and systemic racism (societal patterns affecting education, health care, employment and criminal justice). She described racial microaggressions, disparities in maternal health and mental-health impacts, and urged commissioners to treat diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies as protections for fair treatment.

She recounted a recent case she said shaped the presentation: an 11-year-old named Jocelyn Gropo who "committed suicide because other students were bullying her" and questioning her right to be in the U.S. Rubio said the school's failure to communicate with the child's parents highlighted a need for better reporting and accountability. "This is one of the things that we can work together in changing the systemic in the schools," she said.

Commission members asked Rubio how small advisory bodies can help preserve DEI programs and respond when policies appear under attack. Commissioners suggested partnering with county human resources, the Humboldt County Office of Education and local higher-education institutions; issuing press releases; and hosting community events to keep the issue visible. Rubio said she adapts her presentation for different audiences and agreed to provide slides for the commission's outreach channels.

Rubio emphasized early intervention with children, educator training and community accountability: "Advocate and awareness. Educate the public about the harmful the harmful effects of racism and push yourself push for systemic change," she said. Commissioners thanked her and discussed ways the commission might amplify the work, including posting materials on social media and inviting her to future events.

The commission did not vote on policy at the meeting. Commissioners invited Rubio to share digital copies of her slides for posting and follow-up, and flagged potential next steps including connecting with school administrators and exploring public listening sessions.