Today, Explained The new secession
Jun 4, 2019
Adam Harris, an education writer for The Atlantic, discusses a controversial secession movement in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana. Wealthy white residents are attempting to create a new city to escape local schools they perceive as inadequate. This trend reflects a growing issue of school resegregation. Harris explores the historical context of racial inequality in education, the impact of housing policies, and the challenges parents face in balancing personal desires with the need for integrated schools. The conversation highlights the complexities of race and education today.
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St. George Secession Attempt
- In Baton Rouge, a group of predominantly wealthy, white parents are attempting to create a new city called St. George.
- This move aims to establish a separate school district, effectively segregating it from the more diverse East Baton Rouge Parish.
The New Secession
- The St. George secession is part of a national trend called "the new secession."
- This involves creating smaller, wealthier districts with separate school systems, exacerbating school segregation.
Parent Opposes Secession
- Stephen Baham, a parent in East Baton Rouge Parish, opposes the St. George breakaway.
- He values the diversity of the current school system and believes separating would harm the community.