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Member Spotlight

Diane Hicks

"I believe systemic and institutional inequities, especially in matters of race, remain significant barriers for people and communities working to reach their full potential."
Published: June 2023

District/College: Retired South Lane School District

Job Assignment/Position: Substitute Teacher

Headshot for OEA Member Diane Hicks

Local Association: South Lane Education Association Current: OEA-Retired

Years of Educator Experience: 33 years

What are three ways you have actively elevated equity?

  • Kept SLSD's school board abreast of equity trainings available for them to attend (Always had someone from South Lane at the OEA symposium while I was local president).
  • I have served two four-year terms on CORE (EMAC) representing American Indian/Alaskan Native.
  • Advisor for schoolwide Youth for Equity club where we focused on learning about historically marginalized groups through their music, food and stories.
  • I maintain the local associations Facebook page making sure to post racial equity/social justice learning opportunities.
  • Member of the Strategic Action Task Force including focusing on getting the Engage findings out to members.
  • E-Sparkie Cohort #2

What is your equity stance?

I believe systemic and institutional inequities, especially in matters of race, remain significant barriers for people and communities working to reach their full potential. I believe in the dignity and humanity of all people and envision a world where society and its systems (education, employment, health care, etc.) are just, fair, and inclusive. I make the commitment to participate in efforts to initiate the long overdue changes that will bring the elimination of the inequities that have plagued society for far too long. I stand in solidarity with BLM and other groups who strive for a healthy and prosperous society that promotes equitable access and opportunity for all. I believe as Dr. King Jr said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

What is your favorite social justice quote?

If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. -Bishop Desmond Tutu

Can you share one equity focused resource or student read that you recommend?

Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson is meant for upper elementary/Middle school age students but is a great model for adults. (For Adults: Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi.)

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The Oregon Education Association (OEA) is a union committed to the cause of providing the basic right of great public education to every student. OEA represents about 41,000 educators working in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 public schools and community colleges. OEA’s membership includes licensed teachers and specialists, classified/education support professionals (ESPs), community college faculty, retired educators, and student members. OEA members also belong to the 3.2 million members of the National Education Association (NEA).