Throughout history, people in power have removed the voice of groups that they fear, specifically, their right to speak out for what they believe in or against. Fascist organizations first target their people’s right to speak out against tyranny, effectively crippling their power in the process. Arkansas is about to pass a new bill, titled ACCESS- which operates under the guise of education reform but, hidden in Section 23, it bars students from participating in any form of civic engagement. Section 23 prevents students from receiving excused absences for “political protest, social or public policy advocacy, or attempts to influence legislation or other governmental policy-making.” As a result, students participating in this process will be considered truant and security personnel have the authority to put the student into their custody, and escort them back to school or to hold them in a truancy reception center. 

With the passage of ACCESS, students will be prevented from participating civically and be effectively silenced in the process. Speaking at town halls, voting, and direct communication with representatives are among the many forms of civic engagement. Students at Central actively participate in many forms of this, like last year, when AP African American Studies students went to participate in the judicial process and exercise their first amendment right to free speech in order to help get the course verified as an AP. 

This bill affects Central high school significantly because we are known to hold walkouts and stay vocal in our beliefs. We have walked out against the overturning of Roe V. Wade, the LEARNS Act, and the Education Freedom Account program, which takes money away from public schools to give to already wealthy private schools. As students who actively participate in civic engagement, we have a duty to act when our rights are in danger. We need to stay aware of the current political environment, speak out against unjust policies, and inform your community. 

What YOU can do to fight against ACCESS

• Contact your local and federal government officials and voice your complaints; They’re required to listen!
  • ACCESS Sponsor: Representative Matthew J. Shepard 
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Phone: (870) 862-2087
  • ACCESS Sponsor: Senator Johnathan Dismang
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Phone: (501) 682-6107
• Spread Awareness to your community
• Join forces with fellow activists
• Stay Informed!
  • The best way to be active in your community is to stay on top of events that impact those around you.