UNITED STATES—An Edmond Sante Fe High School student was harassed by a fellow student for wearing clothing representative of President Donald Trump on Monday, February 25.
Edmund Public School District issued a statement noting they are aware of the incident captured on cell phone video between the two students. The letter reads:
“On the 25th, students were allowed to contribute a dollar to the fundraising cause in exchange for a pass to wear headgear to school, which is typically not allowed in school facilities during the school day. In the video, an 18-year old student is seen confronting a younger classmate who is wearing a “Make America Great Again hat carrying a ‘Trump’ flag. The student then proceeds to grab the flag and knock the hat off the classmate’s head.”
The letter explained in length that the student wearing the hat did not get a dress code violation, as they were participating in the fundraising campaign.
“In response, Edmond Santa Fe High School administrators, working simultaneously with Edmond Police, addressed the incident with swift and immediate disciplinary action. A school resource officer issued a ticket to the student who grabbed the classmate’s property. According to the Edmond Police Department, a mediation process is the next step facing the students,” the letter adds.
The student who harassed the student wearing Trump gear was given a municipal summons and the parent of the victim wearing the hat will need to contact the city’s attorney’s office. Both parties are expected to meet with the city attorney to negotiate an agreement. If not agreement is reached the city attorney can file assault charges against the student who is an adult.
“The school district honors students’ First Amendment rights, but must at the same time be vigilant in teaching and supporting students as they learn how best to appropriately express their opinions,” states the Edmond Public School District in the letter.
Written By Sharon Stice
