Hate Speech Incidents Investigated In Lower Merion Schools

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — The Lower Merion School District is investigating recent incidents involving hate speech in its schools.

In a letter to the district community, Superintendent Khalid Mumin said the district is looking into incidents in district schools of students using discriminatory harassment.

"Such language will not be tolerated," he said. "The reported incidents are being investigated and appropriate discipline will occur."

Details on the incidents were not made clear.

According to the district, discriminatory harassment includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes, bullying, hazing or other verbal, written, electronic, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individual's race, color, national origin/ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or religion.

Anyone in the district who is the victim of discriminatory harassment, bullying, or hazing is urged to complete the district's reporting form online here.

"The district cannot put an end to these incidents on its own," Mumin said. "Parents and guardians are asked to speak with their children about the importance of respecting others, both in their actions and their language."

The letter also included resources on discussing these topics for district families:

• Let's Talk: Discussing Race, Racism and Other Difficult Topics with Students
• Resources for Parents: Uplifting Youth Through Healthy Communication About Race
• Talking to kids about discrimination
• Talking to Children About Racial Bias
• 8 Tips for Talking to Your Child About Racial Justice
• Beyond the Golden Rule: A Parent's Guide to Preventing and Responding to Justice