Golden State Today

SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, alongside State Senator Henry Stern and other prominent figures, has expressed support for the establishment of an Office of Civil Rights within the California Department of Education (CDE). The proposed office aims to investigate complaints of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying in California public schools.

Thurmond emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, stating, "As an educator and a father, I know how critical it is for every child to feel not only safe in their identity, but proud of their identity at school. That’s why I have been at the forefront of protecting our LGBTQ+ students."

The new Office of Civil Rights would not only investigate complaints but also provide regular reports to Thurmond and the CDE on incidents of discrimination and harassment in schools. Additionally, it would offer recommendations to address these issues effectively.

State Senator Henry Stern, the author of the bill, highlighted the significance of the proposed office, saying, "I am driven by a profound commitment to the safety and well-being of our children in schools. This bill embodies our collective promise to shield our children from harm and equip them with the knowledge to confront the shadows of history."

Thurmond's backing of the bill aligns with his ongoing efforts to promote understanding and education on sensitive historical topics. Earlier this year, he launched an oral history speaker series for Holocaust survivors and their families, aiming to educate students about the atrocities of the past.

The State Superintendent's dedication to Holocaust and genocide education is reflected in his role as the Co-Chair of the Governor’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education. Thurmond's initiatives come at a time when studies have shown a concerning lack of awareness, particularly among younger generations, about the Holocaust and its significance.

The oral history event at El Cerrito High School, featuring Holocaust survivor Lisa Brinner, marked the beginning of a series of survivor testimonies that Thurmond plans to host across California. Educators interested in incorporating these testimonies into their curriculum are encouraged to contact communications@cde.ca.gov.

Thurmond's advocacy extends beyond historical education, as he has been instrumental in advancing legislation to support and protect LGBTQ+ individuals in California, particularly vulnerable youth.

By supporting the establishment of an Office of Civil Rights at the California Department of Education, Thurmond and his colleagues aim to create a safer and more inclusive educational environment for all students in the state.