Another School District Sued for Not Protecting Black Students
A school district in Illinois is being sued by parents who allege a history of racial harassment. The lawsuit alleges that the district has failed to protect Black students from racial discrimination and harassment.
History of Racial Harassment
The lawsuit alleges a pattern of racial discrimination toward Autumn Shelton and her younger sister, Serenity, dating back to their elementary school days. It includes a moment in fifth grade when Autumn said a white student called her sister a racial slur. The suit also alleges that since attending District 97 schools, the sisters have required therapy to deal with anxiety and thoughts of self-harm.
The Incident with the Cotton
The incident in question involved a tactile activity at Percy Julian Middle School, where students were asked to reach into a small box and describe what they felt. However, at the end of the exercise, the teacher handed Ziploc bags filled with dirty cotton to the only two Black children in the class, Autumn and her sister Serenity.
Mother’s Outrage
For Candace Ward, the mother of Autumn and Serenity, the cotton incident was the last straw. She fired off an angry Facebook post about the incident that went viral, attaching a photo of the bag. She then sued the district in federal court, alleging a long history of racism against her and her children.
The District’s Response
In a statement, District 97 officials rejected Ward’s claims, insisting that they provide a learning environment that is "equitable, positive, safe, and free of discrimination against any student, staff, parent, and/or guardian." The district is 53.7% white and 15.8% Black.
Conclusion
This recent lawsuit highlights the ongoing struggle for racial equality in American education. Schools must ensure that all students, regardless of their race, feel safe and supported in their learning environment. It is crucial that educators take steps to address systemic racism and discrimination, rather than turning a blind eye to these issues. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students.
FAQs
- What is the lawsuit alleging?
The lawsuit is alleging a history of racial harassment and discrimination against Autumn Shelton and her younger sister, Serenity, dating back to their elementary school days. - What was the incident involving the cotton?
In a tactile activity, the teacher handed Ziploc bags filled with dirty cotton to the only two Black children in the class, Autumn and her sister Serenity. - What is the district’s response?
The district has rejected the allegations, saying they provide a learning environment that is "equitable, positive, safe, and free of discrimination against any student, staff, parent, and/or guardian."
