Democracy Quote by Henry Giroux
“The Obama administration doesn't see schools as a public good. It doesn't see schools as places where basically we can educate students in a way to take democracy seriously and to be able to fight for it. It sees them as basically kids who should be part of the global workforce.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Lecture on Education Policy, 2015
The quote argues that the administration treats schools as economic tools rather than civic institutions essential for nurturing democratic values.
In simple terms: Schools are seen as workforce pipelines, not democratic foundations.
Reclaim schools as civic spaces.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- school board meetings
- parent-teacher conferences
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can schools balance workforce preparation with democratic education?
- What policies would shift schools toward public good?
The view may overlook the need for vocational training alongside civic education.