A principal from a Brooklyn elementary school recently found herself at the center of controversy after claims surfaced that she had banned Christmas, Thanksgiving, and even the Pledge of Allegiance. Reports from various news outlets, including the New York Post, indicated that Principal Lydia Harper of PS169 had curtailed religious celebrations, opting instead for “harvest festivals” or “winter celebrations” devoid of overt religious symbolism.
Changes to the Pledge of Allegiance
According to comments from the school’s PTA president, Principal Harper also altered the way the Pledge of Allegiance is conducted. Traditionally recited during morning announcements with mandatory participation, under Harper’s guidance, teachers now have the discretion to choose how to approach it. They can lead the pledge in their classrooms if they wish, but participation is not compulsory. This reasonable adjustment was misinterpreted by some media outlets as an outright ban on the pledge.
In a memo circulated last month, Vice Principal Marco Diaz urged staff to consider the diversity of the school community, reminding them that not every student observes the same holidays. These changes align with the guidelines from the city’s Department of Education, which prohibits school displays featuring religious figures or texts. Despite this, the narrative has escalated, with some individuals expressing outrage online, claiming the principal was undermining American traditions.
Media Sensationalism and Public Reaction
Fox News was among the first to sensationalize the story, alleging that Santa Claus had been banned and that students could no longer recite the pledge. This led to the creation of a Facebook page and a petition demanding Harper’s dismissal, with comments ranging from heated criticisms to extreme reactions:
- “Liberal, left-wing, progressive disgrace; she should be removed immediately!”
- “Why doesn’t she go live in a country without our traditions?”
- “I consider her a terrorist of the U.S. and she should be deported!”
Despite the uproar, it’s important to clarify that Principal Harper hasn’t banned anything. The policies she implemented are consistent with practices in many schools where winter and harvest celebrations are favored over specific religious observances. My own educational experience included schools that didn’t require the Pledge of Allegiance to be said over the intercom; these are not radical ideas, but rather expressions of inclusivity.
The Importance of Inclusivity
In a nation that prides itself on embracing diverse cultures and beliefs, allowing students the choice to participate in the pledge and refraining from imposing a singular religious viewpoint should not be viewed as un-American. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity, which should be celebrated rather than condemned.
In response to the backlash, the New York City Department of Education has announced that PS169 will resume broadcasting the pledge over the intercom.
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Conclusion
In summary, the situation at PS169 exemplifies the challenges of balancing tradition and inclusivity in schools. Principal Harper’s adjustments have sparked unwarranted outrage, emphasizing the need for understanding and acceptance of diverse perspectives.