In the wake of the racist graffiti that occurred at Sehome High School on October 12, students from Bellingham, Sehome and Squalicum high schools have been meeting within their respective schools and collectively to discuss how to address campus climate issues. Specifically, the lunchtime protest staged at Bellingham High School on October 26 sparked some needed dialogue among students and staff about racism. Immediately following the lunchtime protest, protest participants along with concerned students, staff and community members met with each other to discuss issues and concerns. Before the end of the day this group met with every class to debrief about what had transpired at Sehome and how racism impacts the campus climate. As a result, there seems to be a growing understanding that racism affects us all and is not a minority problem. The peace march that followed emerged from a desire to show solidarity. This exemplifies the kind of collaboration that is needed to address racism:

Students Protest Racist Graffiti

To support student efforts, local teachers and community partners have been working with students to create a venue to promote a sustainable coalition among area high school students. A meeting at Squalicum High School on October 18 brought over 40 students together to discuss recent events and to share general concerns. The feedback was powerful and the requests for a follow-up were resounding. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to take place at Bellingham High School on November 8th at 6pm. The goal of this meeting is to continue the dialogue and to begin identifying ways schools can promote student voice and empowerment.

Stay tuned for updates...