State Representative Dora Drake’s Statement regarding The Minority Teacher Loan Program & Resources for Minorities pursuing Higher Education

Madison- On November 7, 2023, State Rep. Dora Drake (D-11th Assembly District Milwaukee) announced her opposition to AB 554 relating to: race-based higher education programs and requirements.

“There are decades of historic precedent that assert the need for more diverse representation in universities. Plus, there are various benefits that come with pursing diversity, equity, and inclusion such as reducing students’ racial bias, enhancing leadership skills and working in a globalized economy.

However, AB 554 would remove grants focused for students of color and our Minority Teacher Loan Program by be determining their status if they are disadvantaged, not by their minority status.

Wisconsin Republicans are using the Federal Supreme Court decision on affirmative action as their justification to remove minority-based grants and loans. But the fact of the matter is that the Supreme Court decision was based on admissions, not resources to pursue higher education. In addition, the irony in repealing the Minority Teacher Loan Program is that this legislation was lead and supported in a bipartisan manner to address the need for diverse teachers in our classrooms. For Republicans to remove this provision, in the midst of a growing teacher shortage, is detrimental to our educational system, diminishes the progress of inclusion in academia, and frankly hypocritical on their part.

On a personal note, I am a first generational student who benefited from educational resources that Republicans are removing. I was a recipient of the Educational Opportunity Program and other grants focused on minorities and women. These resources assisted my educational progress by removing financial barriers, making my pursuit of education accessible and attainable. If it were not for these grants, I would not have the financial means to pursue and finish my Bachelor’s degree and have the privilege of serving my constituents.

Pursuing Higher education should be one of the greatest assets for knowledge and growth to an individual and for Wisconsin. However, AB554 would re-invigorate and strengthen the historical legacy of discrimination towards minority and underrepresented communities’ access to opportunity. There is no justification under any circumstance.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.