Kathy McDonald - PFPAD5 Intervention

     Thank you, Chair. My name is Kathy McDonald. I am a delegate here with the Organisation for Economic Development and Diplomacy.

     It is my deep seated belief that education is the most powerful weapon and the only meaningful way that we can change the world and ultimately lead to world peace. As a mother of 4 changemakers and a witness to Black children navigating trauma all in the name of getting an education: Dismantling anti-Black racism in education is not just a moral responsibility, it’s essential to building a system that truly serves every student.

    Schools are meant to be spaces of opportunity, yet for many Black students, they have historically been places where bias, lowered expectations, and systemic barriers limit potential instead of nurturing it. When anti-Black racism goes unaddressed, it impacts academic outcomes, mental health, sense of belonging, long-term opportunities and peace. Eliminating it is not only about fairness; it is about unlocking the full potential of individuals and strengthening society as a whole.

     Education systems are not designed to make the Black child flourish and in this design flaw miseducates, uneducates and undereducates all students To be successful in dismantling anti-Black racism in education, two priorities stand out. First, we must transform curriculum and representation. What students learn and whose stories are told shapes how they see themselves and others. A curriculum that meaningfully includes Black histories, contributions, and perspectives challenges stereotypes and affirms identity. This cannot be limited to a single month or isolated lesson; it must be embedded across subjects in a consistent, accurate, and respectful way.

      Second, we must invest in accountability and systemic change within schools. This includes training educators to recognize and address bias, collecting and acting on data related to disparities in discipline and achievement, and creating policies that actively promote equity. It also means listening to Black students and communities and involving them in decision-making. Without accountability, even well-intentioned efforts fail to create lasting change. Dismantling anti-Black racism in education is not a one-time initiative, it's an ongoing commitment. 

    Thank you.