A Virginia judge has mandated that a group of teenagers who vandalized a significant historic Black schoolhouse engage in a unique form of restitution. The adolescents, aged 16 and 17, were found guilty of defacing the Ashburn Colored School, a 19th-century building that served African American children during the era of segregation. Their graffiti included swastikas, sexual imagery, and racially charged slogans such as “brown power” and “white power.”
Unconventional Punishment
In light of their actions, the prosecutor proposed an unconventional punishment: the teens must read one book each month for a year, followed by writing a report on each. This reading list comprises 35 titles that delve into themes of diversity, racism, and the struggles faced by marginalized groups throughout history.
Deputy Commonwealth Attorney Maria Jensen, who devised this educational approach, expressed her belief that reading could provide deeper insights than conventional penalties. “I realized that for these kids to understand the gravity of their actions, they needed to explore these topics through literature,” she noted. “It’s not enough to just complete community service; they need to reflect on the implications of their behavior.”
Additional Educational Experiences
In addition to their reading assignments, the teens are required to visit a Holocaust museum and the Smithsonian’s Museum of American History, which features exhibits highlighting the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. They will also write a paper discussing the symbolism of the swastika and the ramifications of racist ideologies on African American communities.
Notable Books on the Reading List
Notable books on their reading list include I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou and Night by Elie Wiesel, both of which address profound societal issues. Deeply concerned about the vandalism, the founder of the Ashburn Colored School, Thomas Reed, remarked on the disheartening nature of the incident, emphasizing its connection to painful chapters in American history.
Understanding the Impact of Actions
The Commonwealth Attorney’s office stated that the teenagers did not fully comprehend the historical significance of their actions, noting that three of the five youths belong to minority groups themselves. This educational approach aims not only to enlighten the teens but also to foster a greater understanding of the impact their actions have on the community.
Further Reading and Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, a judge has imposed a reading requirement on five Virginia teens who vandalized a historic Black schoolhouse, emphasizing the importance of education in understanding diversity and racism. The teens will read 12 books over a year and participate in additional educational experiences to reflect on the significance of their actions.