Thomas West, a father of four and an openly gay Army veteran from Manchester, sheds light on an issue close to his heart in his recent commentary. As the co-author of “A Kids Book About Gay Parents” with his husband, West is no stranger to advocating for inclusive and equitable policies. He serves on the Manchester planning commission and as a justice of the peace, bringing a unique perspective to the conversation about school meals in Vermont.
West vividly recalls the stigma associated with needing assistance for meals during his high school days. He recounts the feeling of entering a PIN number, 050565, to access food and the discomfort of standing in line, aware that not everyone faced the same challenges. His personal experience highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity in schools with compassion and dignity.
In his critique of Governor Phil Scott’s proposal, West emphasizes the detrimental effects of reintroducing stigma into the school meal system. He argues against the notion that children should have to prove their economic status to receive a basic necessity like food. West advocates for universal access to breakfast and lunch for all students, regardless of their family’s income level.
Championing Equity and Inclusivity
West firmly believes that Gov. Scott’s opposition to universal school meals is a step in the wrong direction. He asserts that ensuring every student has access to nutritious meals without barriers is not only a matter of social justice but also an investment in the future. By removing financial burdens and simplifying parents’ lives, universal school meals contribute to a more equitable and inclusive educational environment.
An Investment in the Future
West challenges the perception that universal school meals are regressive, pointing out that public education itself is a universal right. Just as higher-income families are not asked to pay more for their child’s education, West argues that access to meals should not be contingent on economic status. He underscores the broader societal benefits of well-fed, educated students and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the well-being of all children in Vermont.
In a time when many families are facing economic challenges, West sees universal school meals as a source of stability and support. He highlights the impact of this program on single parents, families struggling to make ends meet, and students who rely on school meals as a crucial source of nutrition. By streamlining administrative processes and recognizing the essential nature of school meals, West makes a compelling case for maintaining universal access for all students.
As West eloquently articulates, addressing food insecurity in schools is not just a matter of charity but a question of dignity, equity, and common sense. Vermonters, he argues, have a long-standing tradition of caring for one another, and universal school meals align with those values. By prioritizing the well-being of children and investing in their future, West urges policymakers to uphold the principle of providing universal access to meals in schools.
In conclusion, West calls on Vermonters to stand together in support of universal school meals for every child, every school, every day. He emphasizes that ensuring all students have access to nutritious meals is not a luxury but a fundamental right that contributes to a stronger, more equitable society. By championing equity and inclusivity in our educational system, West advocates for a brighter future for all children in Vermont.
