ACLP March 2021 Newsletter Update

Dear ACLP Community,

COVID-19 continues to challenge our lives and that of our loved ones. Yet, African Community Learning Program (ACLP)’s team has continued in its work of empowering the African diaspora through education! The enduring passion and commitment of ACLP’s team inspire me everyday. I thank our team for their hard work, especially during these difficult times.

Women’s History Month

This March 2021, ACLP celebrates African diaspora women as the organization has done over the years with its curriculum through Women’s History Month. We are highlighting 20 women who embody the ACLP 2020-2021 school year theme of “Preparing the Future through Education, Excellence, and Justice.” These women have contributed to academia, journalism, global economics, politics, science, music, art, social justice, literature, culinary, and farming with their reach spanning Philadelphia, the United States, the African continent, and the world. Learn more about these women on our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages.

Policy Work

We sent our ACLP Fall 2020 policy documents to the Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs and Mayor Kenney to consider recommendations for the School District of Philadelphia, suggesting culturally responsive teaching for students. We thank the Office of Immigrant Affairs for supporting our efforts.

We are continuing to work on a policy document for K-12 immigrants and English learners in Philadelphia public schools and plan to send it to Philadelphia public officials. We want students to have access to the quality education that they deserve, elevating their cultures and who they are as individuals. Origin, language barrier, zip code, and financial status should not stand in the way of students’ education, access to opportunities, and their ability to become productive members of society.

We wish you and yours well. Thank you for your continued support of ACLP!

Aminata Sy

Founder & President

African Community Learning Program