A Democratic state representative in Kentucky has ignited controversy with her candid remarks about race while defending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) lessons in public schools.
During a recent committee meeting, Representative Sarah Stalker admitted she doesn’t always “feel good about being white,” a comment that has drawn both support and sharp criticism.
Stalker Speaks Out on Privilege and DEI
The discussion took place at the Interim Joint Committee on Education, where lawmakers debated the future of DEI programs in K-12 schools.
Republicans are pushing for legislation to remove the initiatives, labeling them as divisive and ineffective.
Stalker shared her personal perspective, explaining that being white comes with inherent privileges.
“I’m just a white woman,” she said, adding that a white man would have even more advantages.
“I don’t feel good about being white every day—for a lot of reasons—because it’s a point of privilege that allows me to move through the world in ways others don’t get.”
She argued that eliminating DEI lessons would mean missing opportunities for children to reflect on how race shapes their experiences.
“Trying to stifle that dialogue and shield students from thinking about it is a missed opportunity for some really good conversations,” she said.
Reaction from the Public
Stalker’s comments quickly went viral on social media.
Some users expressed disbelief, with one writing on X, “Oh my Karen,” while another questioned, “Who elects people like this?” Newsmax host David Harris Jr also weighed in on Instagram, calling the mindset “racist and dangerous.”
Republican Opposition and Proposed Legislation
Republican Senator Lindsey Tichenor has been a vocal critic of DEI programs in Kentucky schools.
At the same meeting, she presented a draft bill aimed at eliminating what she described as “wasteful, ineffective, and divisive” initiatives.
Tichenor cited federal civil rights law, including Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, to argue that some DEI practices may violate regulations prohibiting racial discrimination in federally funded programs.
She pointed to Kentucky’s two largest school districts, Fayette and Jefferson counties, which declined to sign a Department of Education form certifying compliance with former President Trump’s interpretation of civil rights law.
“DEI reinforces division rather than unity,” Tichenor said.
“It encourages students, teachers, and staff to view each other primarily through the lens of identity rather than fostering independent thinking.”
The Broader Debate
The clash over DEI in Kentucky reflects a wider national debate about how schools should address race, equity, and history in classrooms.
Democrats like Stalker emphasize understanding privilege and promoting inclusive dialogue, while Republicans argue these programs create division and unnecessary conflict.
The Daily Mail has reached out to Representative Stalker for further comment as the legislative debate continues.
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