Almost every high school in America has a week dedicated to the homecoming football game. This week usually consists of days in which students can dress up based on a given theme to show school spirit. For example, Bob Jones has Hick Day, Character Day, Civilization Day, Throwback Thursday, and Spirit Day: all of which students avidly participate.
One school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has stirred up controversy during their homecoming week by wanting the students to participate in “Trayvon Martin Day.”
Students were encouraged to wear hoodies to school in remembrance of the young man who was killed. Although the students thought it was a good idea, the parents did not. In fact, so many complaints were received that they finally decided to change the day altogether to “Bucco Day” to support their local baseball team, the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Many Twitter users were on the parents side tweeting things such as, “Skittles and iced tea for lunch?” and “What do kids do, skip school & smoke weed?”
Bob Jones student, Anias Riley says, “I understand how the parents reaction would be different from the students but the intentions are good. I think it’s nice and that we would actually participate.”
As the coordinator of our Homecoming week themes, Mrs. Van Dam says, “Homecoming days are meant to be fun. It’s an enjoyable time for the school and a time to represent school spirit.”
When asked if she would consider having a “Trayvon Martin Day” at Bob Jones, she states, “I don’t think Homecoming week is the time for a demonstration such as that.”
Although, parents of the students at Pittsburgh High School were outraged by the theme, Erika Michelbach, parent of a Bob Jones student claims, “I think it’s a little morbid. I can’t say I’d be mad, but I think something more positive would send a better message.”
Do you support a Trayvon Martin day?
- No (78%, 7 Votes)
- Yes (22%, 2 Votes)
Total Voters: 9
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