Can't Take That Away

by Steven Salvatore

“The protest. Is this really necessary?” Janet thrusts the microphone toward me. “I think that’s a biased question. It’s our right to protest against injustices; it’s what the United States of America stands for. I shouldn’t have to feel unsafe or unwelcome in the school I go to every day because a teacher has incorrect views about queer people. Teachers like that shouldn’t be bankrolled by the school. My mom, a hard-working single mother, is a taxpayer, and her voice deserves to be heard too. So do the voices of the actual students.” I motion for the camera to pan for a view of the crowd. “Clearly they have something to say. This isn’t the first incident, and we’re hoping to put an end to them because no student deserves to be in an environment where they feel unsafe. So no, I don’t think we’ve gone too far. I don’t think we’ve gone far enough.” Janet turns back to the camera. “You heard it here, folks. Carey Parker of Sunnyside High School is fired up and demands action. They—” I interrupt her. “It’s not just me. Other students have had similar experiences with this teacher. Other teachers have dealt with this discrimination too.” I hope Mr. Kelly can hear me. “We’re standing up for both students and teachers. As students, we value our education. But if the administration is intent on protecting one teacher over protecting their students against hateful speech, then the school is not doing its job. We want accountability and transparency. So, if you’ll excuse me, I have ...