Monday’s NAACP annual legislative day at Statehouse saw black leaders from Indiana weigh in on legislation that would affect everything, from education to the environment.
A controversial school curriculum bill, House Bill 1134At the rally, it was a hot topic. On the same day as it was due to receive a crucial vote on Senate floor, speakers swore their opposition. Drew Duncan, from the South Bend chapter NAACP, stated that it would effectively erase Black history in the classroom.
Duncan stated that they want to erase American history. We are a part this country. We are proud to have contributed to its creation.
A number of lawmakers also spoke out against the Republican-backed legislation. John Bartlett (D.Indianapolis), said that between education bills, and a measure to end handgun permits for sale, lawmakers are sending a dire message to Hoosiers.
Bartlett stated, “We want to rob and arm you with a gun but not education.” Think about it.
Leaders strongly oppose several bills that would adversely impact Black, Brown, as well as low-income communities.
It might be more important than ever to consider how the state approaches energy- and environment-related topics.
The Biden administration has committed to sending 40 percent of federal fundingTo communities most affected by climate change, including Black, Brown, or low-income communities. It is up to the states to distribute most of these dollars.
How can we ensure that our constituents, members, and communities get their fair share of the benefits? Denise Abdul-Rahman is the Indiana NAACP state chair for environmental climate justice.
Sign up for the Indiana Two-Way to join the conversation. Text “Indiana” (73224) We value your comments and questions regarding statewide issues. Are you interested in following along with our coverage during the legislative session? We have compiled all stories that our reporters published Here is the bill number and the topic.
Gov. Eric Holcomb Joined 15 other governors in a LetterWe urge the Biden Administration to allow the states to manage the federal infrastructure funding in their own ways and not to prioritize equity or climate change.
Abdul-Rahman, among others, expressed support for an amend to House Bill 1221To install more electric vehicle charging stations within diverse communities House Bill1196 A bill to allow Hoosiers who are homeowners to access solar power.
Abdul-Rahman stated that the NAACP opposes bills that would allow companies underground storage of carbon emissions and encourage the construction of small nuclear reactors in the state.
Contact reporter Justin at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter at @Hicks_JustinM. Contact reporter Rebecca at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter at @beckythiele.
Indiana Environmental reporting is supported and supported by the Environmental Resilience Institute. It is an Indiana University Grand Challenge project that develops Indiana-specific projections as well as informed responses to environmental change problems.
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