my name is Nyjeria Jessup . My friends are Kiya Brice, Thomas gosset. Don’t take this from us, it isn’t fair. The girl who started it can walk but my friend tryna break it up can’t walk. I can’t either help us seek justice 
I’ve worked hard every year to make it to graduation. I’ve never been in a fight at school before. But when I finally stood up for myself after being provoked, it seems like my dreams of walking across the graduation stage were shattered. Meanwhile, someone who has been accused of a heinous crime like rape is allowed to participate in the ceremony. This sends a clear message that there is no consistent standard, and it feels like certain people are being punished harder than others based on who they are, not what they did.

My friends and I, involved in a single physical altercation, are being denied the opportunity to participate in this significant milestone, despite our efforts and achievements. Graduation is a moment we’ve looked forward to throughout our high school journey. It’s a celebration of our persistence, dedication, and everything we've accomplished academically and personally. We acknowledge that a mistake was made, but punishments should be fair and proportional to the actions.

This is personal to me because I’ve pushed through a lot to make it to this moment. I’ve stayed focused, kept my head down, and avoided problems all throughout school. This was my first and only fight, and I didn’t even start it. The girl who came after me has a history of starting drama, and even had trespassing warrants before for trying to fight me with her friends at school. Nothing was done when it was the senior picnic, but now all of a sudden my future is being threatened over one mistake.

What really hurts is that I’ve seen other students get into fights and still be allowed to walk. But when I finally stand up for myself, I’m being told I don’t deserve to celebrate my achievement like everyone else. That feels unfair. That feels personal.

Educational institutions should foster equality and fairness, ensuring that all students are treated with the same principles of justice. The decision to let someone who is accused of a serious crime participate while denying us reflects a bias that can't be overlooked. Injustice in disciplinary actions not only affects morale but also disrupts the trust we place in educational systems.

By advocating for equal treatment, I hope we can pave the way for a future where fairness prevails and every student gets the opportunity they deserve to walk at graduation. Join us in urging the school administration to reconsider their decision and uphold the true value of educational equality and justice for all students. Sign this petition and support our plea for fair treatment at our graduation ceremony. We’ve all earned the right to walk the stage. Help us make it happen.