The racist antics of another school official has come to light. Ted Bonner, who serves on the Belvins School Board in Belvins, Ark., revealed his racism in a photo that has surfaced from Halloween.
According to KARK, Bonner dressed in blackface and held a sign a sign that read, “Blak Lives Matter” to mock the Black Lives Matter movement. Shortly after the photo was made public, Superintendent Billy Lee released a statement.
“This district is deeply committed to creating and maintaining a strong and healthy school culture free of bullying, and any form of discrimination. I have no personal knowledge of any actions by district staff or elected officials. Please rest assured that if it comes to my attention that any staff member has behaved in a way inconsistent with this district’s values and policy of anti-discrimination, a swift investigation and response would be forthcoming,” Lee wrote.
Bonner’s action proves that he should not be allowed to serve on a school board. His racist views could play a major role in how he handles districts that are predominantly Black and minority. The overt racism should lead to his removal from the board.
However, because of state laws, Bonner can only be removed if he decides to step down. He can’t be removed from his position until 2018 when his term comes to an end.
Leaders of the NAACP and other civil rights organizations in Arkansas have stood up against Bonner’s photo and hopes that the issue can be resolved soon.
In the age of Donald Trump, we can likely expect more racist acts due to his personal views and the Alternative-Right people who he continues to surround himself with.
