In a letter to Schools Chancellor Walcott, Public Advocate de Blasio disagreed with the decision of PS 195’s principal to prevent a 5th grader from delivering a speech on Marriage Equality. De Blasio credited the student with showing “far more maturity than the adults in his school” and called for him to be “commended, not sidelined.”
Read the full letter:
June 15, 2012
Dennis M. Walcott, Chancellor
New York City Department of Education
Tweed Building
52 Chambers Street, Room 405
New York, New York 10007
Dear Chancellor Walcott,
I disagree with the decision of PS 195’s principal to prevent 5th grader Kameron Slade from delivering a speech on Marriage Equality. At a time when Marriage Equality is the law of our state, we should not stifle students from engaging this issue on their own terms and in their own ways. Principal Bailey’s decision is a throwback to a different time, and has no place in the tolerant society all of us are working towards.
As a father with two children in our school system, I strongly believe our schools must set an example for acceptance of all students and all families. Kameron’s speech is a heartfelt expression of understanding that deserves to be commended. He has shown far more maturity than the adults in his school. His voice should be heard, not sidelined.
Sincerely,
Bill de Blasio
Public Advocate for the City of New York
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