Event sparks controversy and backlash

An event at Royall Elementary School intended to celebrate Mexican culture last week took an unexpected turn causing outrage in Florence County, South Carolina. The school initiated an event called “Royal Cantina”, but controversy stirred when photographs appeared on the school’s Facebook page showing some staff members sporting U.S. Border Patrol uniforms.

The Trigger

The incident, which took place on July 31, was supposed to be a lively celebration of Mexican culture. While many staff members chose outfits reflecting a Latin American bar theme, a pair of staff members chose to wear gray uniforms imprinted with the words “U.S. Border Patrol”, posing in front of a red brick wall prop. The photographs were posted on the school’s Facebook page and quickly sparked an outcry from the public, most notably the Mexican-American community.

The reaction

The comments flooded the school’s Facebook page expressing disappointment and anger towards the school’s action. One Facebook user critiqued, “This is beyond disgusting. These so-called ‘educators’ should be fired immediately.” Another comment read, “These teachers need to be fired immediately. They are racist and have no place in our schools. How can they think this is funny?” The criticism led to the removal of the posts and restrictions on who could comment.

Response from the school

Royall Elementary School extended an apology through a Facebook post. It read, “It is with regret that we acknowledge that a picture that was posted on our Facebook page yesterday showed an insensitive disregard for the current challenges our Hispanic population faces. At Royall, we take great pride in our long-standing tradition of embracing and supporting every student who walks through the doors of our building…We apologize for our insensitivity but look forward to fostering relationships as we begin a new school year.”

Have actions been taken against the involved staff?

Yes. Professional action has been taken. According to a letter that was circulated among parents from Florence One Schools Superintendent Richard O’Malley, he states, “Several employees are no longer employed or have been placed on leave.” Insisting Royall Elementary School will upkeep its commitment to exceptional education, O’Malley assured parents and staff that the school will maintain its high expectations and excellence in student achievement.