Last month, the Newberg school board approved a ban on political symbols being displayed on school grounds. The board released a statement with an explanation of the ban, saying that the district wants to, “avoid any sense of political advocacy or support in our schools.”
The ban prohibits students and teachers from wearing or displaying any political symbols, including those related to movements like Black Lives Matter (BLM) and LGBTQ Pride.
In its statement, the school board offered some comfort to those concerned about the ban: “We want to clearly state our continuing commitment to all our Newberg and Dundee students and staff, including our students and staff of color and those who identify as LGBTQ. We intend to demonstrate to each of you in the word and deed that you belong and are welcome in all our schools.”
Brian Shannon, the Vice-Chair of the Newberg school board, said, “sometimes you hear something that just strikes you as fundamentally true. And you know, when I was listening to the people talking tonight, the thing that struck me — just gripped me when I heard it — was people make people feel safe, signs will never make people feel safe, people are the ones that make people feel safe. And the great people who work in our schools are going to be the same people once we take out these politically divisive signs from our schools.”
Newberg parent Erin McCarthy responded by placing large BLM and LGBTQ pride signs on her property that overlooks the high school.
Some parents and community members hoped the contentious decision would be overturned before students return to in person classes. But, those hopes were dashed at a school board meeting that took place last night, as the motion to rescind the decision was postponed.
The ACLU has condemned the ban, saying “To the Newberg students and staff: You have rights…we are here to defend them and we look forward to connecting with the district and hopefully finding a resolution.”
ACLU of Oregon Legal Director Kelly Simon said, “As students, teachers, and staff return to school, they should feel welcomed and included – that they belong. That is exactly what Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ Pride messages do. This is welcoming and inclusive speech. It is protected speech.”
The ACLU sent a letter to the district a few days ago to request a retraction of the ban. The school board has yet to respond.
