Black Lives Matter Cambridge released the following statement on Question 2, the charter school expansion question on the November ballot:

"On November 8th, many of us will be heading to the ballot to elect the next president. However, we would be remiss if we did not pay due attention to local and state issues which will also appear on the ballot. In particular, here in Massachusetts, we are specifically concerned with Question 2 - an effort to raise the cap on the number of charter schools that can be created in one year to 12.

The increasing numbers of charter schools can and will have adverse effects on each city’s public education, as well as creating difficulties in long-term planning and budgeting. In addition, studies have been conducted which prove that charter schools do not necessarily result in a better education for students, while also being a breeding ground for profiteering and other self-serving practices for individuals and corporations involved in a charter school’s development.

Let it be clear: Black Lives Matter Cambridge is strongly opposed to the passing of Question 2.

We urge voters to consider how the increasing number of charter schools with affect the city of Cambridge and other Massachusetts communities. The opportunity to affect change on a local level has never been more real nor more pressing. Please take the time to become familiar with the choices being made in our neighborhoods, and recognize the ability we all have to shape a more just, effective, and balanced community - for all of us."