Sometimes we encounter a unique voice, even in politics, one which we might not be expecting, but to which we should pay attention, and even more, give our support.
On Saturday I was one of a small group of DC-area education bloggers who had a unique experience. We were invited guests for a political fundraiser in the Langston Hughes room of the original Busboys and Poets, at 14th and V Streets NW, followed by a sitdown with the candidate.
It might have seem an unusual setting. After all, this was a candidate for mayor of a city several hours away. Why should we be interested?
I did say we were educational bloggers. This candidate has not only served as vice-mayor and a city councilman in the city in question. He has also been a teacher, an administrator, and principal of a high school. He is on leave from the last position while he runs for mayor.
The city is Newark NJ.
The candidate is Ras Baraka.
Let me start with this - I have never met a candidate for relatively high public office with as thorough and detailed an understanding of the role of and issues related to public education.
I want this community to have an understanding of why I feel that way, in the hopes that I can persuade you that his election might be one of the most significant achievements not only for those of us commited to public education, but to all who view themselves as Progressives, who want to see a more Progressive approach to public policy and governance in our nation.
Please keep reading.
First some background. Ras Baraka was born in 1970. He is the son of the playwright Amiri Baraka (born LeRoi Jones) and the poet Amina Baraka, was raised in Newark, has a degree in political science from Howard University and a masters in Education Supervision from St. Peters University in Jersey City. He began his educational career as a middle school English teacher, became an administrator at several different schools in the district, and has been the very