Mission
We are a community powered group creating transformative change within Austin school systems by actively acknowledging and disrupting racist policies and practices; committing to daily practices where everyone thrives; and authentically engaging and amplifying community voices and advocating for Austin school systems to do the same.
Vision
Black, Indigenous, and Brown youth are fearless and living joyfully and abundantly in a world where they can advocate for themselves, their peers, and the next generation. All schools are culturally responsive and restorative, absent of police and policing, and safe learning environments where you can thrive regardless of your race, disability status, or how you identify.
Purpose
The purpose of the BASS Program is to create transformative change within Austin school systems so BIPOC students, families, and staff can thrive. We aim to achieve this through advocating for police-free schools. We recognize that safety does not exist when Black, Brown, students with disabilities, students who have immigrated, and LGBTQIA+ students are forced to interact with a system of policing that views them not as a child but as a threat.
Background
Austin Justice Coalition (AJC) has had Higher Learning, our youth program for BIPOC (Black Indigenous People Of Color) youth, for approximately 6 years. Racism and inequities regularly experienced by BIPOC youth and adults in AISD and weekly engagement with BIPOC youth currently in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) led AJC to challenge the school district to engage in transformative change.
Adults and young adults in the criminal justice system now were likely “pipelined” to prison as early as the 3rd grade (school to prison pipeline). BASS focuses our efforts on transforming the school systems that are funneling our children into the criminal justice system. BASS has an organizing and program component both tailored to Austin school systems and youth. This program not only educates people on why this work is important but it also organizes the community to take action and advocate for transformative change.
Our Projects
Higher Learning
A yearly freedom school focused on political education, community building, and healing catered to Austin’s BIPOC youth. Relaunch coming soon!
BASS Coalition
Organizations that meet monthly and work together towards a common goal of police free schools in Austin.
BASS Workgroup
A group of community members who meet monthly and work together to advocate for equitable learning spaces where BIPOC youth and adults thrive.