Defending Liberty: Nathan Pierce on Homeschool Freedom in California

Episode Summary

In this episode, Angela Lasch, Executive Director of CHEA, sits down with Nathan Pierce, Executive Director of Family Protection Ministries, to discuss the critical importance of homeschool advocacy in California. Nathan shares his 20-year journey monitoring state legislation, the 39-year history of Family Protection Ministries' work protecting parental rights, and how FPM partners with CHEA to defend homeschool freedom. With California's legislative session beginning in January, this conversation is essential listening for every homeschooling family who wants to understand the landscape affecting their right to educate their children according to their Christian values.

Key Topics Covered

• Nathan Pierce's background and journey into advocacy work
• The detect, analyze, monitor, and intervene approach at Family Protection Ministries
• 39 years of legislative victories protecting homeschool freedom in California
• The evolving homeschool community and how challenges have changed over decades
• How FPM and CHEA partner to protect California's homeschooling families
• Predictable patterns and recurring threats to homeschooling
• What to expect as the California legislative session begins in January
• The strategic importance of Capitol Day and grassroots advocacy
• Nathan's concerns and hopes for the future of homeschool freedom in California

Important Dates & Action Items

Capitol Day 2025

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Last Day to Apply: January 7, 2025

Visit https://fpmca.org/ for more information and registration

This is your opportunity to make your voice heard at the State Capitol and stand alongside other homeschooling families advocating for parental rights and educational freedom.

Resources Mentioned

Family Protection Ministries

Website: fpmca.org

Connect with Nathan for the latest legislative updates, blog posts, and speaker requests

CHEA Resources

Website: https://cheaofca.org/

Blog Article: 'The History of Homeschooling in California' - Read our comprehensive overview of how homeschooling has evolved in California and the legal battles that have shaped our freedoms today

 

Book Recommendation

Title: The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California

Author: J. Michael Smith

Available in the CHEA Store

This book provides essential background on the legislative fights that have protected our right to homeschool and why vigilance remains critical.

Why This Conversation Matters

Our freedoms as homeschooling families are not guaranteed—they require constant vigilance, informed engagement, and action. As we enter 2026, it's crucial to understand the history of homeschool advocacy in California, recognize the threats we face, and commit to being active defenders of parental rights.

This podcast is part of CHEA's January emphasis on advocacy, reminding us not to take our freedoms for granted and to stay diligent in protecting the right to educate our children according to our Christian convictions.

Get Involved

1. Register for Capitol Day (Deadline: January 8) - Be the face of homeschooling in your district
2. Subscribe to FPM Updates - Stay informed about bills affecting homeschooling at fpmca.org
3. Read and Share - Explore the history of homeschooling in California on our blog and share with other homeschooling families
4. Get the Book - Purchase The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California from the CHEA Store to deepen your understanding of the fight for our freedoms

Subscribe to the CHEA Podcast for more conversations equipping and encouraging California's homeschooling families.

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