Tools for the Fight
Free Resources to Support Educators in the Anti-Equity Era
Let’s be real—this is not the blog post I wanted to write.
Like so many of you, I had hoped we wouldn’t be here. I had hoped we wouldn’t need checklists and response strategies just to defend the fundamental truth that all students deserve to belong, to be seen, and to thrive.
But here we are. And we’re not backing down.
In response to the increasingly hostile climate toward Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts in schools, I’ve created a Resource Bank of Free Tools to support educators, leaders, and advocates who are determined to stay grounded in their values and continue the work that matters most.
🛠 Inside the Resource Bank, you’ll find:
- 4 Tips to Survive the Anti-Equity Era – Quick guidance to help you stay focused, strategic, and strong.
- Surviving Anti-Equity Checklist – A practical tool to help you navigate your current educational landscape with clarity and intention.
- Six “Moves” for Districts Responding to the War on DEI in Schools – Frameworks and recommendations for schools and districts determined to lead with integrity.
- Sample Support Letter to Community – A customizable template to help you communicate your stance with courage and professionalism.
These resources aren’t exhaustive, and they aren’t magic wands. But they are a starting place—and a way to stay connected, supported, and prepared.
Because here’s what I know: when we fight, we win.
We are stronger together. We can still build and protect the kinds of learning environments every child deserves. And even in the face of policy attacks or public pressure, there are ways to resist, to persist, and to lead with purpose.
If you’re an educator who’s been asking:
“What do I say? What can I do? How do I keep going?”
—this toolkit is for you.
Ready to dig in? Access the FREE Resource Bank here:
Let’s stay steadfast. Let’s keep showing up. And let’s make sure our students know we’re fighting for them—every step of the way.
Dr. Deonna Smith is an advocate for educational justice, teacher and abolitionist. Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Deonna grew up navigating a system that was built to suppress and marginalize Black and Brown kids. Deonna’s passion for justice began early, as the only student of color in most places, and a first generation college student, Deonna experienced firsthand the corrosive nature of systemic racism. After completing her undergraduate degree Deonna sought to be the Black teacher she never had. Years in the classroom exposed just how deep the roots of systemic racism ran. Having a Black teacher wasn’t enough if you were working at a school that refused to confront racism, inequity and bias. As a teacher, Deonna saw how systemic racism impacted her students. As an administrator, she saw how it impacted her school and even the community.
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