To Our Equity Champions
College Spark Washington wants to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to those in our State. Your unwavering commitment to equity in education is changing lives. The work you do – in partnership with College Spark and beyond – matters. It strengthens communities, opens doors, and creates pathways to opportunity for those who have historically been left behind. We all know that targeted universalism makes sure that the education system provides support to those furthest from opportunity, in a matter that makes the system better for all learners.
We are in this work together – no matter political affiliation. As we navigate these times, I am reminded of a powerful quote: “A tree that bends and withstands heavy winds is stronger than a tree that has never seen a storm.” While opposition to DEI work is real, it also presents us with an opportunity—an opportunity to sharpen our message, amplify the impact of our work, and build a collective force committed to the shared goal of educational justice.
While opposition to DEI work is real, it also presents us with an opportunity—an opportunity to sharpen our message, amplify the impact of our work, and build a collective force committed to the shared goal of educational justice.
How Do We See This Moment?
Educators’ Perspective
Some leaders fear making headlines more than they fear losing students through the “back door” of systemic exclusion. Our work ensures that all students, particularly those who have been historically marginalized, have access to the academic and cultural support they need to thrive. While discrimination and bias have become more visible, this visibility allows us to confront them directly. We must help students recognize and challenge racism, sexism, Islamophobia, antisemitism, and all forms of discrimination—reminding them that these ideologies are incompatible with the core American values of democracy, justice, and equality.
College Spark’s Perspective
Philanthropy has both the right and the responsibility to stand firm in our first amendment freedoms. We remain committed to our mission: addressing disparities in education and ensuring equitable opportunities for all students. Executive Orders are not laws and do not deter us from the work at hand. Our Board has reaffirmed its commitment to DEI, and we are here to support you.
Moving Beyond This Moment
The strength of our nation lies in its diversity. Research shows that diverse schools create lasting benefits for our economy, democracy, and society by preparing students to work, collaborate, and lead in an increasingly interconnected world. Employers overwhelmingly recognize this – 96% say cultural competency is critical in the workplace. Furthermore, integrated learning environments help reduce divisions and hate, fostering greater understanding and empathy.
As my mentor, Dr. James Banks, once said, “Individuals who know the world only from their own cultural perspectives are denied important parts of the human experience and are culturally and ethnically isolated.” Our work ensures that all students have access to the full richness of that human experience.
Final Thoughts
The political winds? Let them blow – our work is bigger than any election cycle. The pursuit of equity is not a zero-sum game. Empowering minoritized students does not come at anyone’s expense; rather, it strengthens our collective future.
Your leadership across Washington state, places you on the right side of history. Keep going. Keep rising. Know that you are not alone.
With deep appreciation and in solidarity,
Dr. Warren Brown
