About Us

Public schools have a mission to educate and prepare children to be compassionate global citizens. When racism occurs in schools, it negatively impacts all members of the community. Children subjected to racism and social exclusion experience emotional and physical stress, interrupted learning, and a loss of safety and security. Children who perpetuate or witness racism experience limited emotional and social growth; they remain unprepared to engage fully and productively with the world. When racism is acknowledged, interrupted, and rooted out, every student benefits and our communities better reflect our shared values.

As a coalition of parents, educators, researchers, community members, and organizations working together to help Utah schools serve the unique needs of students of color, we:

Illuminate

Create and share accurate information about the reality of racism and the role educational equity plays in rooting it out in schools.

Empower

Prepare our community to engage in the political process and advocate for equitable, inclusive schools.

Influence

Work with the Utah State Board of Education, local school boards, educators, and legislators to create and implement inclusive curriculums and policies, train educators, and promote fairness and belonging in Utah’s schools and classrooms.

Steering Committee

Michelle Love-Day

UROR co-founder, Steering Committee Member

Sheryl Ellsworth

MWEG Advocacy Director, Rooting out Racism, Steering Committee Member

Melarie Wheat

MWEG Utah Chapter Co-Coordinator, UROR Steering Committee Member

Michelle Brown

Steering Committee Member

Eric Ruiz Bybee

Steering Committee Member

 

Meghan Castleton 

Steering Committee Member

Markeeda Elliott

Steering Committee Member
 

Emily Inouye Huey

Steering Committee Member

Jessica Jensen

Steering Committee Member

Dorie Kim

UROR Manager, Steering Committee Member
 

Deirdre Stevens Straight 

Steering Committee Member
 

Richard Wolfgramm

Steering Committee Member