Idaho bans the “Welcome Everyone Here” poster. The teacher wants to know – who is not?
This summer, Idaho has joined an increasing list of states, introducing restrictions that teachers can say or cannot show in the classroom. Latest target? A law prohibiting posters, flags and other displays to express the view that lawmakers consider “political, religious or ideology” in public schools.
The initial casualties were a once unconscious poster that read “Welcome to everyone here.”
The controversy began earlier this year in West Ada School District, when sixth-grade teacher Sarah Inama was directed by administrators to remove posters from her classroom. Inama refused, believing that the message was not political, but just a affirmation of the inclusion and security of all students.
After weeks of back and forth, she chose to quit rather than land. Her story has attracted national attention, prompting widespread support from educators, parents and students.
After the incident, the Idaho Legislature passed House Bill 41, which formally prohibits teachers from displaying material that can be considered ideological. The law comes into force on July 1.
But for many teachers, it’s more than just posters. It’s about sending a broader message to students and educators who serve them.
Why is it controversial to “be welcomed here”?
On the surface, it seems that “Everyone is welcome here” is rarely opposed. It has long created a sense of security and belonging in the classroom, especially for students who feel marginalized by race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or immigration status.
But, according to Idaho lawmakers who support the law, the phrase adopts what they say about political rhetoric. Legislators believe that even though the wording is extensive, the sign indicates support for “ideology” and they believe it should be kept out.
House Bill 41 supporters say the law is necessary to keep classroom neutral and focus on academics. Critics believe this is a smokescreen used to eliminate the affirmation of diversity and inclusion under the guise of neutrality.
The core of the debate is this question:
When you tell your students to “welcome everyone”, who hears and feels threatened?
More explicitly, what does it say about the current climate if simple attribution information is regarded as political and cannot be displayed?
Legislators say which students are not welcome in the classroom?
They were too afraid to say it. But we already know who.
What’s next?
For educators in Idaho and elsewhere, this is not just a legal change, but a moral test. Nationwide, teachers’ commitment to students is squeezed between the increasingly politicized directives of lawmakers.
They were told to be neutral during periods where clarity was needed.
They are told that kindness, empathy and affirmation may be seen as threats.
They were told to sit down and be quiet.
Teacher: If you are asked to follow these guidelines and feel fearful, don’t. Just keep asking provocative questions:
- “How about the famous quotes about historical figures of justice or equality?”
- “Just curious: do we forbid posters to highlight other positive behaviors and personality traits?”
- “Would I use a sign that says ‘most people here tentatively accept’ unless otherwise legislated”” most people””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””
If you are ready to get into trouble, it’s time. You can first download our free “Welcome Everyone Here” poster as shown in the picture below.
The last thing
As a middle school teacher for many years The warrior doesn’t cry Melba Pattillo Beals, one of the Nine Rocks. This book details her experience in integrating Central High School in 1957.
My students – without political background – were shocked by the way black students were treated. But it’s not just racism that makes them angry the most. This is responsible for adult cowards and complicity.
They asked:
- “Why no one stops the governor?”
- “Did the principal apologize?”
- “Why are everyone so obsessed with hating them? All they have to do is go to school.”
Fifty years from now on, history students will ask similar questions about this moment.
May we decide now, like Sarah Inama, the human nature of our students is more important than the discomfort of those in power.
