After peace flags were taken down from classrooms at Halifax Elementary School, a public standout was organized this weekend.
Dozens of people gathered at the Route 58/106 intersection, holding signs and rainbow-colored flags. Jay Cline, a senior at Silver Lake High School, organized the standout.
“As a transgender male coming from this town, I think it’s important that we spread peace, positivity, and inclusion,” said Cline. “It’s not exactly the kindest, most accepting town. I thought it was important that I organize this and try to get people to come out and show their support.”
Rainbow flags with the word “peace” were taken down from 5th and 6th grade classrooms after complaints from parents, who felt they were political in nature.
“Some people believe peace to be a political movement, which makes no sense. It’s important that people’s colors are shown, whether they’re Black, White, or LGBT,” said Cline. “I think it’s important that it’s okay to be themselves. Having them take down that flag at the Elementary School, it’s basically saying it’s not okay to be different.”
Cline says the reception Saturday was mostly positive. More standouts are planned this month. School Superintendent Jill Proulx says they were reviewing the issue with the administrative team.
The School Committee plans on discussing the issue during the next meeting on March 1.
