Thank you, Cathy

When our local schools go into lockdown, my anxiety shoots sky high. I can’t even imagine what it feels like for a parent living in a conflict zone. They must feel this anxiety every day as their children head off to school.

Imagine the horror of being a child at constant risk in your own community. Sadly, this is the case for nearly 1-in-5 children globally who are living in or near an active conflict zone. Educational institutions are often damaged or destroyed, placing a child’s life and future at risk. Sometimes, students and teachers are threatened or killed in their pursuit of education.

Access to safe learning environments is essential for a child’s well-being and can play a supportive role after traumatic events.

At a time when the number of verified attacks on schools is at a record high, Congress must act. The U.S. must condemn attacks on schools, hold perpetrators accountable, and take tangible action to protect and restore education for children affected by conflict.

Thankfully, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers co-sponsored a bipartisan resolution, H.Res.277, to ensure children living in conflict zones have access to safe and quality education.

Tienaya Godes

Spokane