Every child has the right to an education, no matter who they are or where they were born. Right now, some Tennessee politicians are trying to pass laws that would deny certain children the freedom to learn. This cruel legislation not only threatens to deny thousands of Tennessee children their right to an education, but it could impact millions of students nationwide by undermining long-standing protections and Supreme Court precedent. HB 793 is one of the bills that would attack our children’s right to a free K-12 public education by tracking their immigration status upon school enrollment and report it to the Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division (CIED) that is openly collaborating with ICE.

We need YOU to take action with us on Monday, March 16 at 2 PM CT! We need folks to sit through the final vote for HB 793 on the floor and hold signs so that legislators see Tennesseans sending a clear message to lawmakers: we believe in education for ALL children and we will NOT back down.

HB 793, if passed as amended, would force our public schools to require paperwork for every child to show proof of immigration status or citizenship, costing the state millions and requiring a massive administrative burden and millions of dollars in costs for every local school district. This would go against our laws and values of ensuring that all kids have access to public education. HB 793 was introduced last year, and while an old version already passed the Senate.

We are asking everyone to reserve tickets for the House Floor, show up early. We need every seat filled in the committee room, as well as a a strong turnout in the chambers & overflow room as well. A visible, respectful, and engaged presence demonstrates that our communities are paying attention and that we’re not backing down.

Whether you plan to speak or simply stand in solidarity, your presence matters.

Show up early. Bring a friend. Fill the room.