Her ‘Freedom’s Promise School’ champions Black history
In 2021, Texas Republican Rep. Matt Krause created a list of 850 books that might cause “discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress.” Among those banned were four books of Saint Paul’s Macalester College African American Studies Professor Duchess Harris.
The four are titled “Protesting Police Violence in Modern America,” “Political Resistance in the Current Age,” “Race and Policing in Modern America,” and “Race and the Media in Modern America.”
“I did not know that the Texas Republican Rep. Matt Krause compiled a list of 850 books that might make students feel ‘discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress’ in 2021,” says Harris. “A colleague emailed me and told me that four of my books were banned. I was intrigued because my collection for 4th-12th graders includes 120 titles. I couldn’t imagine how they chose only four.”
Her books, which explore important societal issues, were among those targeted due to their focus on race and policing. “It seems that they targeted books with ‘policing’ in the title,” Harris states. She adds, “I have two books on George Floyd and neither of them were banned,” although other works addressing similar themes faced censure.
This development highlights a growing trend of restricting access to literature that tackles sensitive topics like race and gender. Harris says, “These proposed new laws often state that a teacher cannot ‘require or make part of a course’ on the ideas that ‘one race or sex is inherently superior to another race or sex’ or that someone is ‘inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive’ based on their race or sex.”
Despite facing these challenges, Harris is unwavering in her belief that students must have access to literature that explores these themes. “My book, ‘Protesting Police Violence in Modern America,’ which I wrote in 2021 in response to the murder of George Floyd, does not suggest that one race is inherently superior, nor does it suggest that anyone is inherently oppressive,” she says.
In the face of increasing censorship, Harris is not backing down. Instead, she has taken matters into her own hands with the launch of “Freedom’s Promise School,” a new initiative designed to provide uncensored, inclusive educational content. “There is no need for us to rely on public or private schools. I’ve started my own school,” said Harris.
“‘Freedom’s Promise School with Professor Duchess’ is growing every month. This school provides a space for students to engage deeply with subjects like the Black National Anthem, as well as create their own anthems.” Harris concludes regarding her students, “I want them to understand that their voices matter.”
In addition to launching her school, Harris is making her presence known in the community by hosting regular events — like the passing “Anthem” theme gathering—where she gave a lecture on the Black National Anthem, followed by a session with T. Michael Rambo to teach children all three verses of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Professor Harris’ work addressing race and policing is not the only force behind the “Freedom’s Promise School.” Desirae Butler, Rachelle McCord, and Acooa Ellis, three dedicated mothers and community leaders, have played an integral role in the development of this educational initiative. These women sought Harris’ help to teach their children about Black history and its relevance today.
Desirae Butler, Rachelle McCord, and Acooa Ellis have made it their mission to empower their children and broaden the circle to include more parents. “We have met twice and it has been an honor and privilege,” says Harris. “We would like to broaden our circle to more moms.” This effort has resulted in the creation of a community-driven educational space that champions Black history and seeks to provide students with an understanding of both past and current injustices.
The banning of books isn’t just limited to Harris’ work. In a curious twist, JD Vance’s “Hillbilly Elegy,” a book that addresses working-class struggles, has also been banned by the same administration that sought to restrict Harris’ books.
The political climate surrounding education and censorship is shifting, and as more books are challenged and banned, it becomes evident that it’s more crucial than ever for educators and authors to step up. Harris, who has long advocated for inclusive and uncensored education, is determined to lead the charge.
“I teach them and I continue to write,” she says. Her defiance in the face of book bans and her commitment to creating educational spaces where students can thrive reflects a growing movement against censorship.
As she looks forward, Harris is adamant about the importance of unfiltered education. “We need to raise informed citizens who understand our nation’s history. Whether it’s George Floyd, Emmett Till, or the Civil Rights Movement, these are lessons that must be taught.” Through “Freedom’s Promise School,” Harris continues to provide a platform for young people to engage with the world, challenge injustice, and amplify their own voices.m
