Students at Lexington High School in Massachusetts are perplexed with the school administration’s recent decision to cancel an “American Pride” themed dance on the grounds that the theme excluded other nationalities. This, in spite of the fact that the theme had been voted on and received the highest votes from the dance committee.
A high school that is located where the Battle of Lexington and Concord occurred, sparking the start of the American Revolutionary War. Lexington High School, home to the school’s mascot “Minutemen, is saying ‘no’ to red,white and blue.
This administration’s decision to override the student’s democratic methods in choosing the American theme has caused a bit of controversy and media attention. Assistant Superintendent Carol Pilarski affirms the administration’s decision with WHDH News.
“Given the diverse demography of our community it was suggested by the advisers that the students come maybe national pride theme so they could represent their individual nationalities,” Pilarski responded.
When the reporter from WHDH News asked Pilarski if this response was a means to be “politically correct”, Pilarski answered, “I don’t believe that that’s the case.”
Student’s of all nationalities and backgrounds responded in bewilderment.
“People consider America to be a melting pot,” student, Sneha Rao stated “so the fact that it was even considered offensive is what people are a little surprised about,” said Rao.
The newly themed “National Pride” dance is rescheduled for late April, according to a report from WHDH News, students are being told that they may wear red, white and blue if they choose to.
UPDATE: According to the school’s website, it appears that the administration may have reconsidered their decision.
The following statement can be found on the school’s website as of 1 p.m. this afternoon:
Junior Senior Dance, April 10, 2015
Lexington High School students have selected a theme of American Pride for a junior/senior class dance that will be held on April 10, 2015 as scheduled. As the birthplace of the American Revolution, Lexington is proud of our historic roots that have helped to shape the values of our diverse and inclusive community today.
