On Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 7 p.m., the William S. Hart Union High School District board will meet to discuss a range of policy proposals — one of which would ban all flags on school campuses except the United States and California flags. While it may seem neutral on the surface, this proposal would effectively remove LGBTQ+ pride flags and flags representing immigrant communities from classrooms and events. It’s sparked controversy for good reason.
I’m not a legal expert, but I don’t think you need to be one to recognize what this policy represents. The school board is supposed to represent all members of the community — students, teachers and parents alike. So why does this feel like an attempt to push a narrow political agenda rather than serve the diverse needs of our schools?
I’m a product of the Hart school district. I went to Placerita Junior High, Hart High, and graduated from Castaic High, where I was a starting catcher for the championship-winning varsity baseball team in 2023. I’ve always respected this district — but more importantly, I respect my peers. I’m writing this as a straight white man who went to school alongside LGBTQ+ students and children of immigrants. When I hear about this policy, I don’t just think about flags — I think about people.
These flags are symbols of inclusion for communities that have fought hard to be seen and heard. LGBTQ+ youth already face disproportionately high rates of suicide and mental health struggles. Removing pride flags from their learning environment sends the message: You don’t belong here.
Some argue that the U.S. and California flags are all the inclusion we need. I wish that were true — but our history tells a different story. Yes, America and California are diverse and multicultural, but they have also excluded and marginalized many. Just because we’ve made progress doesn’t mean we stop striving for better. This policy tells some students that their identities are too controversial or political to acknowledge.
I understand the argument that we don’t want the classroom tribalized. I am not sitting here saying that everything needs to be a political issue. I wish everyone could just get along. But from my perspective, I just want everyone to feel like school is a welcoming place for students. And if these flags mean that groups of immigrant or LGBTQ+ students will feel a sense of belonging, the flags should stay.
Maybe most members of the board don’t have children who are LGBTQ+. But imagine if you did. Imagine being told your child doesn’t deserve to see themselves reflected or affirmed at school. I’d be furious if that were my kid.
When leaders use their power to protect only the perspectives that feel safe or familiar to them, they fail the people they’re supposed to serve, especially the students.
If this policy upsets you, show up. Come to the school board meeting Wednesday. Speak out. Bring a sign. Let them know you’re paying attention.
We elected them. We can hold them accountable.
Jack Teoli
Newhall
