UW–Madison doctoral student Tony DelaRosa, who is pursuing his doctorate in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (ELPA), was recently featured on the “Future Ancestors” podcast. The episode spotlights DelaRosa’s personal and professional journey — from growing up in Ohio to becoming a national voice in education, racial equity, and ethnic studies advocacy.
In the conversation, DelaRosa reflects on the current momentum surrounding Asian American education policy, referencing recent initiatives like Illinois’ TEAACH Act and efforts in California. He also discussed Wisconsin’s proposed Act 266, which aims to expand education about Hmong and Asian American histories.
He highlighted the importance of cross-community solidarity, noting: “Shout out to Freedom Inc., which is an organization of Hmong and Southeast Asian and Black solidarity here in Wisconsin. And every Hmong person fought for it.”
DelaRosa is researching how this legislation may take shape in practice.
“I study that and how that’s going to be — like the agenda is going to be set for it, the money is going to be allocated, and how it’s going to be implemented,” he explained. “So that’s the policy window right now. Right now, people are energized by it.”
DelaRosa emphasized the importance of coalition-building in education reform.
“We can’t talk about Asian education without Black education,” he said. “Same struggle.”
To hear the full conversation, visit the “Future Ancestors” podcast.