Students at some East Lansing Public Schools in Michigan can cross off a couple of holidays from their calendars.
According to the Lansing State Journal, the district canceled Halloween and Valentine’s Day in the name of equity and inclusion.
East Lansing Public Schools elementary principals reportedly sent a letter to families announcing the decision.
Assistant superintendent Glenn Mitcham reportedly said it is not uncommon to witness students in tears on Halloween because they “don’t have the same kind of costumes that other kids have or they didn’t bring the same amazing valentines that other kids do.”
“We’re striving hard at East Lansing Public Schools to be a district that is equitable and inclusive for all families,” Mitcham reportedly said.
Putting a happy face on the situation, the Lansing State Journal said Halloween and Valentine’s Day aren’t being canceled because celebrations will be built into the curriculum — like using a class to measure a pumpkin while learning about circumference.
The district has more heartburn about the holidays when it comes to elementary students.
“Each year, along with the fun of Halloween parties and parades, we also have students whose families do not celebrate or feel comfortable with their children participating in Halloween festivities,” the elementary principals wrote. “We have young children who become overwhelmed and sometimes frightened of the costumes and others who come to school with no costume at all.”
“Historically, the Pumpkin Parade marginalizes students of color who do not celebrate the holiday,” a spokesperson told Jason Rantz, a Seattle-based conservative radio host. “Specifically, these students have requested to be isolated on campus while the event took place.”
“In alliance with SPS’s unwavering commitment to students of color, specifically African American males, the staff is committed to supplanting the Pumpkin Parade with more inclusive and educational opportunities during the school day,” the spokesperson added.
