Recently on campus, some peers have begun to draw symbols that they think have no meaning as a joke. In reality, these symbols bring hatred, discrimination and fear to campus. These symbols have caused people to speak up and demand change at CHS.
Hate symbols have appeared all over campus and have been affecting students of certain groups, religions and races. Since it has such an impact, it is important for all students to know what these symbols mean and that they are not comedic or funny drawings, and that is exactly what junior Yelyzaveta Zolovska is trying to accomplish with the help of the No Place For Hate Club.
“The symbols on our campus are swastikas and discriminatory symbols towards Jewish and black people, as well as participants of LGBTQ community,” Zolovska said.
The No Place For Hate Club has been working tirelessly to stop the rapid spread of hate on campus. Although most might not have noticed they have been working behind the scenes to make everyone on campus understand the severity of these symbols.
“Our goal is to give students a lesson on what [the symbols] really mean and what the effects of those actions may have on people,” Zolovska said.
It does not just stop at these symbols. There have also been symbols recreating tragic historic events. These acts have been seen by many people and can have a lasting effect.
“There are even drawings of terrorism such as planes going into buildings, and I have personally witnessed that,” Zolovska said.
Hateful symbols have created unease around campus. Although one person may find it funny, another person can interpret it as a threat against them and that they are not welcome at this school.
“[The symbols] make me feel uncomfortable being on campus. [They also make] me feel unsafe by showing that there are people who discriminate against each other,” Zolovska said.
These hateful actions are not only diminishing connections between students but are also painting the school as a place for hate. Vice Principal Charles Threatt says this leads to a loss of connection between students and the community.
“When the community hears about these symbols spreading around campus, it gives the school a bad [reputation],” Threatt said.
To combat the continuation of hate on campus, it is important for students to speak up when seeing hate. If actions are not taken, the chain of hate will continue to carry on.
“It is important for students, if they see these symbols being written, to speak up and stand up against it,” Threatt said. “[Students can also] fill out our anonymous P3 form.”
