Reflection on Part III

 As I reflect on part III of the book, the struggle and process of inequality are depicted in the history of public education in America in part III of the book. It emphasizes both how far we have come and how much more needs to be done. It makes us wonder about educational equality and who should make decisions and lead the field. The background of Brown v. Board of Education and Plessy v. Ferguson emphasizes the court cases that were fought for racial equality in schools. The "separate but equal" theory was established by the Plessy v. Ferguson case in 1896, permitting racial segregation in public places like schools. However, it became clear as the 1950s drew near that African-American students were not afforded equal opportunities under this doctrine. Segregated schools lacked the resources that white schools had, were overcrowded, and received bad funding. Black students did not have equal access to or quality of education. The Supreme Court declared in Brown v. Board of Education (1954) that "separate educational facilities are inherently unequal." Despite its slow implementation and need for federal enforcement, this ruling finally sought to end school segregation. In addition to the implementation of bilingual education in Crystal City, Texas, Title IX, which outlawed gender-based discrimination in education, was passed in 1972. These court rulings issue like zoning persisted in causing educational disparities since affluent communities were given greater financial support and resources.  Also when my group and I discussed about part III, We all agree that schools should be handled by teachers and academic leaders rather than politicians because they are who are actively involved in education and know the students' needs best. I strongly think students and parents are able to influence school policies to adopt a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Also, schools should receive good funding, making sure that every student has access to a good education, with special support for schools in underserved communities to help bridge the education gap.

 As a social work major, these issues that I learned deeply resonate with me on a personal level. Social work, as everyone knows it, is tied to addressing systemic issues, especially those involved in inequality and access to resources they need. The struggle for educational equality has some similarities to the many challenges that I'm learning to address in the special work field, such as advocating for people who are vulnerable, creating an inclusive space for everyone, and making sure everyone has access to the services and opportunities they deserve. Similar to how systemic barriers and inequality have historically been present in schools, social workers regularly deal with the fallout from these injustices in a variety of other spheres of life, including work, housing, and healthcare. For example, students who encounter obstacles in their education because of their socioeconomic status, race, or disability frequently also encounter difficulties in other domains. I am aware that resolving these interconnected problems is essential to bringing change. Social workers must speak up for people and families, just like in education, to make sure that their needs are met, that their voices are heard, and that they are not excluded or subjected to discrimination because of circumstances beyond their control.

In summary, the struggle for social justice and equal education are closely linked, and as a social work major, I'm coming to understand how important these issues are for underserved communities. From Plessy v. Ferguson to Brown v. Board of Education and beyond, the history of educational inequality allows us to understand the problems and emotions that many people experience. Social workers are important in fostering inclusive settings, removing obstacles, and ensuring that everyone has access to the tools they require for success. I'm determined to apply the lessons I've learned to help build a more equal and just future as I pursue my education. Although much more needs to be done, by staying committed to justice and equality, we can make a better future.