American Flag On Floor Outrages York HS Parents

ELMHURST, IL — During a forum exploring First Amendment rights, the American flag was placed on the ground at York Community High School. Many parents were outraged when they heard about the exercise from their children, and the district has released a statement responding to the District 205 community.

According to the district, the sophomore class explored First Amendment rights as part of a day-long interdisciplinary forum that centered on banned books, music, social media and the American flag. One First Amendment case involved recreating a 1989 installation by Chicago artist Dread Scott, who was later part of a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision protecting the right to free speech.

The district said unlike the Scott example, York’s display was created to ensure the flag was not stepped on or
defaced in any way. The goal was to create an authentic learning environment, and the school said they are continuing to learn from this experience.

"We ask our students to think critically about issues relevant to them and our society. At the same time, we understand that this demonstration caused some angst in the larger community and for that we deeply apologize," the district said in a statement.

This exercise comes days after President Trump's comments about NFL players who kneel during the national anthem. York HS parents took to the high school's Facebook page to share their anger, and in some cases, to share their support.

"Absolutely disgraceful. The flag should never touch the ground," one comment read.

Another comment supported the exercise, stating, "Great job York! This was a relevant and impactful program to explore freedom of speech. Proud our kids will be able to think for themselves and generate positive discourse."

Former students also spoke out, both in favor and against the forum. "As a York alum and American citizen, I am appalled. Our country's flag must never be on the ground," one comment read.

On Tuesday, York Principal Erin DeLuga shared with families that the purpose of the forum "was to explore the complexities of the constitutionally protected right of free speech by examining real cases and encourage students to think critically about issues relevant to them and our society."

According to DeLuga, the display did not intend to disrespect the flag, the military, or the government; rather, it was used for students to reconcile their feelings about current issues and whether their First Amendment
rights are protected.

DeLuga said in the release that two students folded the flag and turned it over to a representative from the Elmhurst American Legion to ensure that it would be retired respectfully in accordance with proper
flag etiquette.

The district said that administrators have met with students Tuesday and Wednesday to provide them an opportunity to express their perspectives. Through these conversations, feedback has been gathered on how the administration and staff can ensure that all student's voices are represented through productive and respectful discourse going forward.

"Our staff and students will learn from this week’s lesson, and we will make changes to this forum in
the future to ensure we do not disrespect our flag," the district said.

Image via District 205.