Vermont Student Anti-Racism Network

A 501c3 by students, for students, building anti-racist schools and communities in Vermont.

Bridging Grassroots Activism, Relationship-Building, and Policy Advocacy to Make Systemic Change in Schools and Society

VSARN began during COVID-19 with a few students organizing on Zoom. We saw the lack of connection between students and lack of action around racial justice in our schools, and wanted to do something. Since then, we’ve grown to become a statewide network hosting in-person events and leading advocacy projects in spaces traditionally led by adults. As students, we’re using our schools as starting points to build a better society.

Project Highlights

Led by former Rutland High School Student Amaya Tonda, the Banned Book Project highlights books in various stages of being banned in the US. Click the link to learn more!

Banned Book Project

Book Project

Our first ever project - reading anti-racist picture books to kids around Vermont! Click the link to learn more!

VSARN’s Legislative Work includes writing legislation, testifying in the Statehouse, and local government advocacy. Click the link to learn more!

Legislative Work

Organize with us!

VSARN commits to making good trouble regardless of what comes next in our state and nation - we cannot afford to be silent. As we begin a new year, we have many opportunities for you to get involved no matter your passion, location, or capacity! Whether you’re a club leader, student, adult supporter, or community member, please reach out!

Email organizing@vsarn.org for general collaboration/interest, and fill out this form to sign up directly: https://forms.gle/AaLLaiNJDV3CxT649

Our Strategy

Grassroots Organizing

We believe that change starts at the local level with us as students! We have multiple regional organizing groups led by students, which host in person events and lead projects throughout the year.

Strategic Policy Advocacy

For years, VSARN has advocated in the political realm. With the current attacks on democracy, we continue to be involved at the national and state level, joining amicus briefs to support Federal Civil Rights and advocating against harmful federal policy. We also work on education reform here in Vermont

Building a Completely Youth Led Anti-Racist Movement

We don’t just talk the talk - we walk the walk and live out our values through our work. We are completely led by youth and consistently strive to reach new voices. We center our work on anti-racism as a framework for societal change, starting in our schools.