A Statement from Board Chair, Governor Jim Hunt and President & CEO, Javaid Siddiqi

Over the past couple of weeks, the world has joined us as we grapple with the horrifying manifestation of racism and its painful consequences. Although the names of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor are among the most familiar, they represent only a fraction of those killed or irreparably traumatized by racially motivated violence in this country.

What we are experiencing now is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history that not only underscores our mission at The Hunt Institute, but also fortifies our commitment to catalyze change through public education. We must continue to inspire and equip policymakers and state leaders to make more informed decisions that will enhance learning, provide equal access to high-quality education systems, and increase educational opportunities indiscriminately.

As educators, leaders and agents of change, we see first-hand how systemic racism infiltrates our public education landscapes and compromises our vision of transformation. In the face of hatred and bias, we cannot be indifferent. Black and brown communities – especially children – are bearing the weight of unspeakable disparities that have plagued this country for centuries. Systemic change is within our grasp, but we must work together, to identify and dismantle constructs – in the classroom and in policy – that perpetuate cycles of disparity. We must also be introspective, and examine our own biases as we work toward a more equitable future for the hundreds of thousands of children who rely on us.

There is still so much work to be done. Progress will take time, but as champions of public school systems, we know that education is at the epicenter of transformation. We cannot truly have a just society without equal access to high-quality education. We are grateful for our partnership, and remain encouraged by the creativity, innovation and leadership that we get to be a part of each day. Thank you for all that you do to expand the lens of equity and accountability, and improve the lives of children everywhere.

James B. Hunt, Jr.                                                   Javaid Siddiqi, Ph.D.
Board Chair, The Hunt Institute                           President & CEO, The Hunt Institute
Governor of North Carolina
1977-1985 | 1993-2001