Our guest is Natalie Hastings, an organizer for Honesty for Ohio Education and Ohioans Against Extremism. The conversation delves deep into the state of public education in Ohio, the implications of grassroots organizing, and the critical importance of maintaining the separation of church and state.
Hastings recounts how her experience as a mother and a public school advocate inspired her to engage in activism. After noticing detrimental changes in her community’s public school policies following the election of conservative board members, she rallied with other parents to challenge a resolution that limited discussions around race, gender, and socio-economic issues. This grassroots movement led to successful litigation that removed the policy. Through her advocacy, Hastings became acquainted with Honesty for Ohio Education, a group committed to fighting against curriculum censorship and ensuring a safe educational environment for all students.
We review the legislative battles over mandated release time for religious instruction in public schools. Despite setbacks, Hastings finds value in the community engagement and alliances that formed during the fight. She discusses the power of grassroots movements, highlighting that even small concessions can be seen as victories in an uphill struggle. Through this narrative, Hastings emphasizes that community mobilization and persistent advocacy are essential for safeguarding public education rights.
01:00 Grassroots Organizing & Released Time Religious Instruction Mandates
19:35 School Vouchers in Ohio and Tool Kits