DeLaney and Ford comment on virtual “listening session” with teachers and parents

INDIANAPOLIS – Yesterday, State Representative Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) and State Senator J.D. Ford (D-Indianapolis) co-hosted a virtual “listening session” with teachers and parents as schools contemplate the return of students in the fall. 

The event was facilitated over Zoom and livestreamed using Facebook Live on Wednesday, July 29. Archived video from the listening session can be viewed on either the Indiana House Democrats or Indiana Senate Democrats Facebook pages. During the webinar, DeLaney and Ford looked to hear comments and concerns from community members with the intention of passing the microphone to those most affected by evolving reopening policies.

“The priorities and concerns of Indiana House District 86 will always guide my work at the Statehouse,” DeLaney said. “As a member of the Indiana House Education Committee, I have been concerned by the Governor's lack of leadership while schools contemplate reopening and am afraid of the potential for chaos. I want to thank the Indianapolis teachers and parents for joining us as we try to find a community-informed approach to reopening.”

“We decided to host this listening session because so many folks in our district expressed their concerns about schools reopening,” Ford said. “This isn’t an easy situation for anyone, whether you’re a parent, student or teacher. The best thing we can do as elected officials is give the people a chance to make their voices heard and be a part of the discussion. I am proud that members of the community took the time out of their day to share their thoughts with Representative DeLaney and me.”