I founded a non-profit organization, STEM NOLA, to expose, inspire and engage communities about the opportunities in STEM.
When New York Gov. Kathy Hochul proclaimed at the Milken Institute Global Conference that “we have young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is,” a backlash erupted. We assume the governor sought to publicly acknowledge the systemic barriers that have historically limited opportunities for Black students and other children of color to be educated and trained to perform proficiently in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
However, the real problem is being overlooked – first by Gov. Hochul and subsequently by those criticizing her. Harm is still being inflicted on Black children in New York and nationwide. The circumstances holding back children of color aren’t being addressed: Gov. Hochul and her colleagues in State Capitals around the country have the power and resources to erase the “STEM divide” and create environments where our children can thrive in STEM.
The Gov. Hochul-led New York State government invests millions in STEM education programs, contending that they are preparing students for the challenges of the 21st-century workforce. Their funding supports the development of new STEM-focused schools, teacher professional development in STEM fields, and the integration of cutting-edge technology into the classroom. They aim to improve students' academic outcomes and ensure a well-trained, productive workforce.
After decades of establishing STEM education programs, there remains a stark racial disparity in STEM fields. A National Science Foundationfound that while Blacks were 14 percent of the U.S. population between the ages of 18 and 34, they were only 10% of the associate’s degrees awarded in science and engineering fields, 9% of the bachelor’s degrees, 11% of the master’s degrees, and just 7% of the doctoral degrees. According to a 2019 diversity report by Google, only 2.
Gov. Hochul quickly apologized for her ill-advised remarks. However, that apology shouldn’t be accepted until it is coupled with a commitment to fund initiatives that can make a difference rather than deliver the same stale results.STEM Global Action, a campaign and network of affiliates that pursue STEM education for children, parents, and communities.
STEM Bronx New York Black Technology Computers Tech Black Tech STEM NOLA
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Counselors at STEM School Highlands Ranch continue the message of 'STEM Strong' 5 years after shootingNicole Brady is a Denver7 weekday morning anchor.
Read more »
Master regulator of inflammation found — and it's in the brain stemEmily is a health news writer based in London, United Kingdom. She holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Durham University and a master's degree in clinical and therapeutic neuroscience from Oxford University. She has worked in science communication, medical writing and as a local news reporter while undertaking journalism training.
Read more »
Stem cells provide new insight into genetic pathway of childhood cancerScientists have discovered a new insight into the genetic pathway of childhood cancer, offering new hope for tailored treatments.
Read more »
'Operation Cash Out' seeks to stem tide of fentanyl in Rocky Mountain regionIt's not car accidents or suicide—fentanyl is the leading cause of death for those in this country between the ages of 18 and 45.
Read more »
Majority of EU nations want more partnerships to stem migration from countries of originA majority of European Union countries are calling for more agreements with countries where migrants depart from or travel through to get to Europe, saying the bloc needs to think outside the box to tackle irregular migration into the 27-member bloc.
Read more »
Majority of EU nations want more partnerships to stem migration from countries of originA majority of European Union countries are calling for more agreements with countries where migrants depart from or travel through to get to Europe, saying the bloc needs to think outside the box to tackle irregular migration into the 27-member bloc
Read more »