Originally posted in The Rawlings-Blake Review, Issue #190

On May 17, 1954—nearly 60 years ago—the United States Supreme Court handed down a unanimous decision in the case of Brown vs. Board of Education. The decision clearly stated that “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal”—ending racial segregation in America’s schools.

This week, I was honored to host a panel discussion in partnership with the University of Baltimore College of Public Affairs on the 60 years following Brown vs. Board of Education. We discussed the impact of that landmark decision and acknowledged the historic efforts of Baltimore attorney (and later, Supreme Court Justice) Thurgood Marshall, who argued the case before the Supreme Court. The impact of that decision has rippled through generations, creating opportunity where it did not exist before.

However, for far too many of our youth, our education system is still very much separate and unequal. While students of color can now attend any school they choose, disparity still exists. We know that right here in Baltimore, many students are not afforded the same opportunities as their peers in other parts of the state and around the country. Baltimore’s school buildings are the oldest in the state—some are still standing from the 19th century. Dripping roofs, leaking foundations, unreliable heating & cooling systems, unusable bathrooms & water fountains—these have become the norm in our schools.

It is a billion dollar problem, and for many years all anyone would do was point fingers. The City said it was a State problem. The State said it was a City problem. The school system said it was both of our problems. In order to build a better school system, we had to grow beyond the tired arguments of the past and do something monumental for ALL of our children. That is why I fought so hard to secure up to $1.1 billion to build new schools and renovate several others across Baltimore. I cannot tell you what it means to me that future generations will finally see new schools, renovated schools, and first-class schools right here in Baltimore City. Because of this remarkable accomplishment we can build the school system our children deserve.

Building better schools is one of many efforts underway to provide African American students equal educational opportunity. This week we saw another exciting step in the right direction with the announcement of a new CEO for Baltimore City Public Schools. In Dr. Gregory Thornton, Baltimore has found a seasoned administrator, who also understands the demands of leading in our classrooms—because he began his career there. I am glad to welcome Dr. Thornton back to Maryland, and excited to work with him as we embark on a new season for Baltimore’s students.

As the daughter of a teacher, education has been a focal point in my life since I was young. The doors that education opened for my parents, for myself, and for my daughter have clearly demonstrated to me the importance of equal educational opportunity. As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, I am thankful for the bold and courageous citizens who made it possible for us to continue moving forward.