Community outcry as National Black Leadership Caucus condemns dissolution of school equity, diversity and inclusion committee

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The National Black Leadership Caucus held a press conference Friday morning at the 1898 Memorial in Wilmington to voice their displeasure at the New Hanover County School Board’s decision to dissolve its equity, diversity, and inclusion committee.

It was a controversial decision that has left many community members unhappy and who feel that their voices need to be heard.

The caucus was joined by community members from all walks of life.

Several people spoke during the press conference, with many saying they were appalled and saddened to see the school district take such a step back.

Sonya Patrick is the Southeastern Director of the caucus.

She said the community will keep fighting to try and reverse this decision.

“Well, I think the community is going to stand up together,” Patrick said. “I think we do have the power to make this better and we have to use our power. And we have to make the Board of Education understand that they are there for all children; not just a select few. And if they don’t understand that particular message, then the community has to do what we have to do to make sure our children are represented.”

Doctor Tim Merrick grew up in a family of educators, with his grandfather having testified before the Supreme Court during the landmark Brown vs Board of Education case back in 1954.

He said while there has been progress, it isn’t always constant.

We reached out to New Hanover County Schools and to the four board members who voted in favor of dissolving the committee but did not get a response.