Walpole High School has been in the spotlight recently after a student recorded herself tearing down and throwing out the Israel flag hanging in the history wing. Many students and parents immediately called the school to voice their concerns over the video, demanding something be done. The issue is less of the action itself, but the intentions behind it. Political activism is often controversial, as it can offend and disagree with those of differing opinions and beliefs. However, it does not and should not be done at the expense of others.
WHS has worked hard to create a safe space for students, where everyone can have a voice and form their own opinions. The school emphasizes unbiased teaching among staff and has remained unbiased towards current world issues and events. Walpole’s world history curriculum discusses the history of Israel and Palestine’s conflict, but has made no stance on the current state of the issue. Discussion and concern from students is always welcome, but these beliefs were never taught or forced by the school.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Unfortunately, intentions are usually more innocent than actions. This student’s intentions were clearly understood: she wished to make a pro-Palestine statement. The problem is that these actions crossed the line from support of one side to hatred of another. Tearing down a country’s flag, no matter the country, and additionally throwing it out can be perceived as an act of hate. Rather, the people of Israel should not be blamed for the actions of their government. Anti-Israel comments have, in certain instances, become an excuse for modern anti-antisemitism. On the other hand, many pro-Palestine comments that say nothing regarding Israel or its people have been accused of being anti-semitic. Being pro-Palestine does not automatically make one anti-semitic, and being Jewish does not automatically make one pro-Israel or anti-Palestine.
Walpole, along with the rest of the world, has differing opinions on the conflict happening between Israel and Palestine. Keeping this in mind, there is a fine line of what the school can do, is allowed to do and what they want to do to address this issue. There is an expectation and principle of punishment. Doing nothing would cause more of an uproar than already created. Unfortunately, this is an issue that will always have a divided response, and it is impossible to satisfy everyone.
The situation in the middle east is an emotional topic for many. People have opinions on both sides and social media has shown how firm people stand on this issue. It has become difficult for many to hold a respectful discussion without turning it into a violent argument. Protests and petitions have taken wind since the events of October 7, but many have taken the idea of activism too far. It is important to approach this topic in a respectful manner. Showing support, no matter for which side, can be done without attacking supporters of the other side. Words can be infuriating on their own, but actions are something entirely different.
