By Bob Katzen
Gov. Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell released updated guidance to K-12 schools on how to address hate and bias-motivated incidents consistent with their legal obligations.
According to the report, “The guidance comes amid a rise in antisemitism, racism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, Islamophobia and hate across the globe, the country and Massachusetts – including a rise in hate-fueled assaults, incidents of white supremacist propaganda, discriminatory bullying and harassment in Massachusetts K-12 schools.”
The report continued, “The guidance has been specifically updated to help school districts distinguish between protected student speech and unprotected bullying and harassment. It reminds school districts of their legal obligations to allow for discourse and expression of different viewpoints while also promptly investigating and responding to any and all incidents of alleged harassment or bullying. It also calls on school districts to take affirmative steps to create school environments that are safe and inclusive for all students and prevent hate and bias incidents from occurring.”
To report a school-based incident of hate or bias, individuals may contact the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division online at https://www.mass.gov/how-to/file-a-civil-rights-complaint or at 617-963-2817.
Here are some of the comments by various government officials on the report:
“It pains me to see the rise in antisemitism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, racism, Islamophobia and hate happening across our state, our country and the world. I’m particularly concerned about the prevalence of hate and violence in our schools. I know that our communities are hurting, and they are frightened. Attorney General Campbell and I are issuing this guidance to send a clear message that hate has no place in Massachusetts – especially not in our schools. This guidance and these grants are giving our schools the tools they need to better prevent and respond to hate. Together, we can ensure that our schools are safe, welcoming, inclusive environments for all students.
—Gov. Maura Healey.
“Our administration strongly condemns hate of all kinds. But with hate crimes on the rise across our state, it’s essential that we act. This guidance empowers schools to better prevent hate, support the mental health and wellbeing of their students and celebrate our amazing, diverse and inclusive communities.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
“It’s crucial that our schools take a firm stand against hate, discrimination and bullying while also protecting students’ rights to free speech and expression, particularly in the context of ongoing violence both here and abroad.”
—Attorney General Andrea Campbell.
“Schools should be places where all students, staff and families are welcomed, and diversity is championed. Here in Massachusetts, we stand firmly against hate – and we are backing up that commitment by delivering this guidance and these investments, so schools are equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to foster safe and inclusive environments that allow every student to feel supported and thrive.”
—Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler.
“These grants are important investments in building safe and respectful school communities where all students are known and valued. Both the hate crimes prevention and genocide education grants are built on avoiding the mistakes of the past and recognizing the dignity in everyone.”
— Acting Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Russell D. Johnston.