NY Principal's White Identity Survey Draws Controversy

The latest development in educational practices has sparked outrage in New York City, where a public school principal is asking parents to reflect on their 'whiteness.' This Polarizing Move has drawn widespread condemnation from concerned parents and educators alike.

Context and Controversy

The New York Post reports that East Side Community High School Principal Mark Federman sent a survey to white parents at the Manhattan public school. This document, written by African-American studies professor Barnor Hesse at Northwestern University, categorizes 'white identities' into eight types. These include 'White Supremacist,' 'White Abolitionist,' and 'White Traitor,' among others.

The Document's Origins and Reception

The graphics and framework for the document appear to have been developed by the Slow Factory Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on anti-racist and climate-positive efforts. According to a statement from the New York City Department of Education (DOE), the pamphlet was first circulated by parents to school staff and then shared with all parents.

The DOE official quoted in the report emphasized that this document was shared for reflective purposes, stating, 'Anti-racism and the celebration of diversity is at the core of our work on behalf of the young people of New York City and the East Side Community School's students, parents, and staff partner together to advance equity in their community.'

Public Reaction and Criticism

The educational approach proposed by Principal Federman has sparked mixed reactions. While some support it as a necessary discussion on racism and racial identities, others are vehemently against it, deeming it inappropriate for young students.

One parent expressed a desire to confront the principal personally, saying, 'I would literally wait in the parking lot to fuck that guy up if I lived there and he was trying to instill that sort of shame in my child. I’d bring my child to watch.' Another expressed immediate dismissal, stating, 'This principal needs to be fired immediately. Can you imagine drilling into little kids that they are automatically bad because they're white? The long-term damage that will do to them is unacceptable.'

Replaced Phrases and Analysis

Supporters of actions aimed at promoting racial awareness in and out of educational settings might argue their position if the words 'white' were replaced with 'black.' If the context stated that a white principal was deploying a black identity survey for parental reflection, the sentiment expressed by these parents would likely remain unchanged. The words 'hypocrisy and racism' could apply equally in such a scenario.

Conclusion

The East Side Community High School principal's decision to distribute this survey has ignited a debate over the role of racial identity in educational practices. While the intentions behind such initiatives are well-intentioned, the backlash highlights the delicate balance that must be struck in fostering understanding and accountability without causing undue harm or shame.

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