Statement Regarding York High School Flag Display
On Tuesday, September 26, York Community High School's entire sophomore class explored First Amendment rights as part of a day-long, interdisciplinary forum that centered on banned books, music, social media and the American flag. Examples were chosen based on their relevance to teenagers.
One First Amendment case involved re-creating a 1989 installation by Chicago artist Dread Scott, who was later part of a landmark U.S. Supr...eme Court decision protecting the right to free speech. Unlike the Scott example, York’s display was created to ensure the flag was not stepped on or defaced in any way. The goal was to create an authentic learning environment, and we are continuing to learn from this experience.
We ask our students to think critically about issues relevant to them and our society. At the same time, we understand that this demonstration caused some angst in the larger community and for that, we deeply apologize.
York Principal Erin DeLuga shared the following information with families yesterday:
• The purpose of the forum was to explore the complexities of the constitutionally protected right of free speech by examining real cases and encourage students to think critically about issues relevant to them and our society.
• One of the cases was a recreation of Dread Scott's "What is the proper way to display a U.S. Flag?" The Scott installation featured the flag on the ground. The York display did not intend to disrespect the flag, the military, or the government; rather, it was used for students to reconcile their feelings about current issues and whether their 1st Amendment rights are protected.
• Two of the students folded the flag and turned it over to a representative from the Elmhurst American Legion to ensure that it would be retired respectfully in accordance with proper flag etiquette.
• We have these conversations in the school environment to foster greater dialogue when our students are in the community.
Yesterday afternoon and throughout the day today, York administrators have met with students to provide them with an opportunity to express their perspectives. Through these conversations, feedback has been gathered on how the administration and staff can ensure that all students' voices are represented through productive and respectful discourse going forward.
Our staff and students will learn from this week’s lesson, and we will make changes to this forum in the future to ensure we do not disrespect our flag.