St. Louis County, MO (KTRS) Student demonstrations at Pattonville High School over racism is causing controversy.
The latest demonstration was held Thursday morning, where a group of students held a school approved walk out. Parent Paul Berry the Third said he’s not against demonstrations, but not during school time. He also said it puts pressure on African-American students like his daughters to participate.
“When you have a situation where African-American students are being pressured by other African-American students to participate on not participate, they shouldn’t be making those decisions in those circumstances. ” Berry explained.
“That’s not why I send my kids to school. I send them to get an education.” Berry added.
One parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, said one of the reasons he disapproves of these actions is related to the current climate of civil unrest in the St. Louis area,” I’m also just a little bit concerned that with what happened in the last few days, we may be going down a slippery slope that may lead to other problems. I’m hoping not. I do trust in the administration here, but after what’s happened in Ferguson and St. Louis, I just think that this is an inappropriate time and place for this.”
Parent Krisstal Artise supports the demonstrations.
“I believe that is trickling down and having an effect on our children. We do have more supporters in the younger generation who are , Caucasian, but there still is some racism here.” Artise explained.
Mike Fulton, the district’s superintendent, had this response to parents who are against these demonstrations.
“I certainly respect every parent’s voice and understand that some parents do not feel this should be occurring, but it’s also important for students to have the opportunity to engage with each other and have a voice and this is not something that happens everyday.” Fulton explained.
Meanwhile, a small group of adult activists led by Representative Bruce Franks gathered across the street from the school to show support for the students participating in the demonstration.
