Joel Iwaskiewicz

Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Joel Iwaskiewicz, and I am a resident of Exeter, NH. I am here to oppose SB 434. This bill is being presented as a way to empower parents. But from the perspective of Black and Brown communities, it raises serious concerns about censorship, power, and whose voices are allowed in our schools. From my perspective as a veteran educator, I also see this bill raising concerns about the quality of education we are dedicated to delivering for the students in our schools. History shows us that when systems allow materials to be removed based on subjective complaints, it is not neutral outcomes that follow. It is the erasure of stories that challenge dominant narratives particularly those of Black and Brown communities. Erasing anyone's story is a devastating affront to the "Live Free or Die" spirit that we value in the Granite State. There have always been objections to teaching the full truth of our history—whether it be about slavery, civil rights, or systemic racism. And too often, those objections have led to silence. Our New Hampshire teachers must not be silenced by a vocal minority. Our students must not be silenced by partisan advocates working to suppress professional educators. SB 434 risks repeating a dangerous pattern that we have already witness, understood, and learned from. By allowing materials to be challenged as “offensive” or “inappropriate” without clear definition, this bill opens the door for a single perspective to limit access for all students. It also endangers the very teachers who have been trained and entrusted to lead in our schools. That creates a power imbalance where the loudest voices can shape what every child is allowed to learn. And when that happens, it is often culturally relevant materials, diverse perspectives, and honest conversations that are the first to go. Our students deserve access to a full and truthful education—one that reflects the diversity of our communities and prepares them to engage with the world. I urge you to reject SB 434. Thank you.