For more than twenty years, I have dedicated my life to education, working alongside students, teachers, families, and communities throughout Philadelphia. I have always believed that education should do more than prepare young people to pass tests or memorize information. It should help them understand themselves, their history, and the world they are inheriting. Much of my work has been rooted in ensuring that young people have opportunities to engage critically with history, particularly the experiences and contributions of communities whose stories have too often been ignored or misrepresented. This commitment has shaped who I am as an educator and the relationships I have built throughout my career.

Beginning in 2024, my work and public expression became the subject of attacks from outside organizations. I believe I am being targeted because of the educational commitments that have guided my work for decades. With the congressional scrutiny of the School District of Philadelphia and similar challenges facing educators across the country, I recognize that what I am experiencing is part of something much larger. There are ongoing efforts to influence which histories are taught, whose experiences are centered, and what young people are encouraged to question. I never imagined having to ask my community for financial assistance to defend my rights, but I also recognize that the work of education has never been accomplished by one person. I am grateful for the relationships and support that have sustained me, and I am asking those who are able to stand with me during this time.

Funds raised through this campaign will be used to cover legal expenses associated with my ongoing employment termination proceedings with the School District of Philadelphia, as well as related legal matters and appeals, including potential claims involving discrimination, retaliation, and violations of my constitutional and civil rights. I am grateful to CAIR-Philadelphia for providing legal representation in my termination proceedings on a pro bono basis. However, pursuing and protecting my legal rights may involve additional expenses, including filing fees, transcripts, investigations, expert witnesses, evidence preparation, litigation costs, and the retention of additional or specialized legal counsel.

Donations will help ensure that I have the resources necessary to pursue these matters fully and effectively. I will personally organize and manage this fund, maintain donations in a separate account, and keep records of expenditures. Any funds remaining after my legal proceedings have concluded will be used to support other educators facing legal challenges arising from their efforts to teach history honestly, promote educational equity, and exercise their rights to free expression.

I am asking for your support to help cover these legal expenses so that I can participate fully in the process without the financial burden limiting my ability to pursue my claims through the appropriate legal channels. Asking for financial assistance is not something I take lightly, and I am deeply grateful for any support you are able to offer. If you are in a position to contribute, your donation will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with others is also a meaningful way to help. Thank you for standing with me and for supporting my effort to protect my legal rights.

Thank you for standing with me.

#StandWithIhsh | #DefendTeachingTruth