January 1, Elementary school cancels Halloween parade citing racial insensitivity

In Washington, an elementary school canceled its yearly Halloween parade after staff determined the event “marginalizes students of color who do not celebrate the holiday.”

The Racial Equity Team at Benjamin Franklin Day Elementary School made the decision.

“In alliance with SPS’s unwavering commitment to students of color, specifically African American males, the staff is committed to supplanting the Pumpkin Parade with more inclusive and educational opportunities during the school day,” a statement read.

“This was an isolating situation and not consistent with our values of being an inclusive and safe place for all our students,” Principal Stanley Jaskot said. “Especially students of color and those with a sensitivity to all the noise and excitement of the parade.”

The school sent a newsletter to parents instructing them not to allow their children to wear costumes to school.

According to the newsletter, costume parties may be uncomfortable for students whose families can’t afford a costume.

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Elementary school cancels Halloween parade due to racial insensitivity