High School Puts an End to Tradition, Calling it “Hurtful and Demeaning” to Latinos
A tradition at an Anaheim high school has been nixed after officials deemed in offensive to the Latino community, calling it “hurtful and demeaning”.For years, Canyon High School senior activity week has included a dress-up day in which seniors (those in their fourth year of high school, not the elderly) dress up as “Seniores” and “Senioritas” for school-held events.
In a letter summarizing her investigation into the complaints filed regarding the event, Aileen M. Sterling, executive director of secondary education for the Orange Unified School District, wrote:
I conclude there was a lack of oversight/supervision and that the school administration should not have allowed this activity.
Even if strict guidelines were provided, he result would still lead to hurtful and demeaning messages about the Mexican culture and to the students of the Mexican, Hispanic and Latino descent.
The event had students dress up in stereotypical Latino garb, with many choosing the “cholo” or gang member