A recent school board meeting in Decatur, Georgia, became the center of attention when Lena Kotler-Wallace, a mother of three, was forcibly removed after expressing her opposition to proposed changes to the district’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The incident, captured on video, went viral, showcasing police officers’ aggressive actions and sparking widespread outrage.
Kotler-Wallace, who has been a resident of the school district for 13 years, attended the meeting with the intention of advocating for her children, who are directly affected by the policies under review. These policies, which the board considered rescinding, were designed to ensure an inclusive and discrimination-free environment. The meeting also addressed potential amendments to several other policies that involved the removal of terms like “equity” and references to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These changes were influenced by executive orders from President Donald Trump targeting LGBTQ+ communities and DEI initiatives.
During the meeting, Kotler-Wallace’s spontaneous reaction led her to label the board as “cowards,” an unplanned outburst that she attributed to frustration over the board’s perceived hypocrisy. Despite not shouting, her projected voice was deemed disruptive by Board Chair Carmen Sulton, prompting a police intervention when Kotler-Wallace refused to leave voluntarily.
The ensuing scene involved four police officers escorting Kotler-Wallace out, as she asserted her rights as a parent and criticized the officers’ actions. Although outwardly composed, she later described the experience as traumatic, likening it to being in survival mode. She emphasized the importance of standing firm in one’s beliefs despite fear.
After being removed from the building, Kotler-Wallace remained outside for approximately two hours, under police observation until she left. Reflecting on the incident, she expressed relief that the situation did not escalate further, especially given recent events where police actions have led to more severe outcomes.
The incident also involved her family, as her 10-year-old daughter, who initially planned to attend the meeting, became anxious and stayed home. Kotler-Wallace managed to prevent her children from witnessing her removal by sending a warning text to her husband. Despite the tumultuous experience, Kotler-Wallace faced no charges and is not barred from attending future meetings.
Her children’s support provided comfort, as they expressed pride in their mother’s actions. However, the episode heightened ongoing concerns about their safety and the safety of other marginalized students. Kotler-Wallace and her husband continuously assess whether homeschooling might become necessary, as many families with LGBTQ+ and disabled children contemplate similar decisions.
Ultimately, the City Schools of Decatur Board of Education voted to repeal the equity policies. Undeterred, Kotler-Wallace remains committed to attending future board meetings, vowing to advocate for her children’s rights and wellbeing. Her dedication to removing barriers for her children underscores her resolve to ensure they can live authentically and joyfully, reiterating to them the importance of fighting for their rights and those of their peers.