“The strikers won nearly all of their demands” shows what can happen when people come together and refuse to settle for less. Those students were serious about being respected and represented in their education. They organized, protested, and kept applying pressure until real changes were made. Because they stood strong, Ethnic Studies programs were created for future generations. As a Black woman returning to school, I appreciate their courage because I now have the opportunity to learn history from the point of view of people who look like me. Their struggle reminds me that our voices matter and that change happens when we stand together.

“Education for its potential to transform lives” stood out to me because education can really change the whole direction of a woman’s life. As a Black woman who returned to school after spending years working and taking care of my family, I understand how powerful education can be. When we learn the truth about our culture and history, we begin to move differently because we know our worth. Ethnic Studies gives our communities a voice and teaches the history that schools often leave out. Knowledge is power, and once we know better, we can speak up and demand better.