Immigration Resolution
Resolution- March 17th, 2025
MNEA stands opposed to HB0738/SB836 , a Tennessee state education bill that could restrict education for undocumented students.
Whereas, the Metropolitan Nashville Education Association (MNEA) is committed to advocating for equitable access to quality education for all students, regardless of their immigration status; and
Whereas, the Tennessee General Assembly is considering legislation that would permit public K-12 and charter schools to verify students' immigration status and potentially deny enrollment to children unable to provide proof of lawful residence in the United States; and
Whereas, this proposed legislation challenges the 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Plyler v. Doe, which established that denying public education to students based on their immigration status violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment; and
Whereas, denying access to public education undermines the fundamental role of schools in fostering an educated and engaged citizenry, potentially creating a marginalized underclass lacking basic educational opportunities; and
Whereas, such legislation could lead to increased discrimination and stigmatization of immigrant communities, fostering an environment of fear and exclusion detrimental to the well-being of all students in MNPS and Tennessee as a whole; and
Whereas, educators have a moral and ethical obligation to provide inclusive and supportive learning environments for every child, irrespective of their immigration status;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the Metropolitan Nashville Education Association (MNEA) unequivocally opposes any legislation that permits public schools to deny enrollment to students based on their immigration status; and
Be it further resolved, that MNEA urges the MNPS school board to also oppose this legislation and uphold the principles of equal access to education as enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and reaffirmed by the Supreme Court; and
Be it further resolved, that MNEA commits to continue collaborating with community organizations, legal advocates, and educational institutions to protect the rights of all students to receive a public education free from discrimination; and
Be it finally resolved, that MNEA will continue to support and defend policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within our schools, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive in a safe and welcoming environment.