New Jersey schools are cancelling Halloween this year, citing potential offense to students from different cultural and religious backgrounds.
Earlier in the month, the New Jersey superintendent of South Orange-Maplewood School District Dr. Ronald G. Taylor sent a letter to parents, informing them that Halloween would not be celebrated in school this year.
“We will not have any Halloween-themed events at any SOMSD schools during school hours,” the letter read. “No costumes will be worn during school hours at our SOMSD schools.”
Halloween is now canceled because it goes against DEI policies. pic.twitter.com/wMsW82EGO8
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) October 25, 2023
“As you know, SOMSD is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion meaningfully – not just saying the words but also promoting an inclusive school… Our aim is to build a consistent approach across the district as to how our schools observe and celebrate holidays and special events,” Taylor wrote. “Each year, questions arise from families, students, and staff about what SOMSD schools will be doing regarding Halloween.”
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The superintendent’s letter continued, “Ultimately, it was determined that I know this may make some uncomfortable and elicit some challenges across our community. However, in the end, I feel these recommendations align with SOMSD’s commitment to building equity.”
Talk about a ‘kill joy,’ – one wonders if this was a request of ‘diversity and inclusion’ from the children, themselves. I mean, I’m sure students would prefer to cancel the idea of sharing their imagination and creativity in costume, for the sake of their fellow colleagues – we’re obviously being sarcastic.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy shared his thoughts on recent changes, including Halloween being cancelled. “Seriously? We can’t let kids celebrate Halloween?” he tweeted. “Give me a break.”
Seriously? We can't let kids celebrate Halloween? Give me a break https://t.co/BQiezE5OoZ
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) October 24, 2023
The letter added, however, that schools will be able to “partner with PTAs, HSAs, or other outside organizations to do themed events after school hours.”
There you have it, folks. Enjoy your trick or treating festivities, and make sure your kids remember to have a safe and “equitable” Halloween this year. Cheers!
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