On April 27, 2019, three White students from Homewood-Flossmoor (H-F) High School were seen parading around town in blackface. They shared their antics via social media, along with a video of them harassing a Black girl at a local McDonald’s.
Homewood-Flossmoor was in the news in 2018 for sending a letter out to a select group of students and parents because some of the students were suspected to be involved in gang activity. This action led to public outrage and made national news.
This recent situation has parents and students alike wondering what will be done as a result of these students participating in such an outwardly disgusting and racist trope.
Over the years, the demographics of the community and the school have changed drastically. The school is now almost 70 percent Black, with almost 80 percent of the teaching population being White, according to illinoisreportcard.com.
In an excerpt from a letter shared with parents and students of Homewood-Flossmoor, it is clear that these actions will not be tolerated.
“It is important that our students and community clearly understand that this type of behavior will not be condoned at H-F and we will continue to take the appropriate and necessary actions to ensure all of our students are respected, feel protected and safe.”
The full letter sent to the parents is available below:
April 28, 2019
Dear Parents & Guardians:
On Sunday morning, we were made aware through emails and phone calls of several social media posts made by students that were highly offensive and culturally insensitive. The administration immediately requested a meeting and met with all of the families and students involved on Sunday afternoon. Due to student confidentiality laws, we are unable to discuss individual students and actions taken. However, we can share that the social media postings that were seen and heard were not representative of the high expectations we have for all students that attend our school. This type of behavior is contrary to our expectations, is being addressed quickly and appropriately and will not be tolerated.
It is important that our students and community clearly understand that this type of behavior will not be condoned at H-F and we will continue to take the appropriate and necessary actions to ensure all of our students are respected, feel protected and safe. If you have any questions and concerns, please contact us at 708-335-5500, [email protected] or 708-335-5540, [email protected].
Sincerely, Dr. Von Mansfield, Superintendent and Dr. Jerry Lee Anderson, Principal
