GBS Condemns 'Deeply Offensive' Yearbook Quote About Attacks On Israel

GLENVIEW, IL — Following a student entry in its yearbook that seemingly praises the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, Glenbrook South and Glenbrook High School District 225 officials are condemning the language used.

In the recently published 2023-2024 student yearbook, Etruscan, a student is quoted in a current event piece titled, "October 7 War in Gaza," as saying "The first day, I woke up and I saw what Palestine did, and I was happy because they're finally defending themselves." The student later refers to the area as their "home country."

Last week, district officials expressed their "profound regret" regarding the piece in a letter to students and families. The district acknowledged it has received a "tremendous number of inquiries and feedback" on the topic.

"The statements in the piece in no way represent the views of Glenbrook South or District 225," the letter reads. "We recognize the feelings, fear and pain related to the content in the yearbook, and we want to assure you that we are in conversation with many students, families, staff and community members about this situation."

Student Press Law Center, a Washington, D.C.-based organization, defended the post. The organization said it sent a letter to District 225 prior to a Tuesday night board of education meeting "affirming the student journalists' role in reflecting various viewpoints among the student body, especially those on sensitive topics. "

SPLC said the Illinois' Speech Rights of Student Journalists Act protects the yearbook's editorial decisions.

The district said when it became aware of the "situation," it began an internal investigation and is continuing it until a resolution is reached.

"Our goal is to ensure that all students and staff feel safe and are valued," the district said in the letter. "We are exploring all options to remedy this deeply offensive and regrettable situation."

The district said if any student needs additional support or services, members of the Student Services Department are available.