Pledge for New Trier: Standing Up Against Hate.  Do We want to be known as that Racist, Anti LGBTQ+, Inhumane School Community? Sign this Pledge to give a clear message that We will name and firmly stand against hate AND stand WITH eachother.

After a recent football game, New Trier students and families have been deeply troubled to learn that members of our community directed racist, homophobic, dehumanizing and disrespectful behavior toward Evanston Township High School marching band students. Our community must understand the harm this causes, apologize, stand up for others, and speak out against those who behave this way.

We pledge to be upstanders when we witness hateful behavior. We pledge to call out such behavior and to take steps to repair the harm it causes others. If we are called out, we will learn from the experience rather than let ego or tradition get in the way.

We pledge to support the leaders of our schools, parent associations, and village and local government when they put in place comprehensive education programs that teach us how to live in a society that is multicultural, multifaith, LGBTQ-friendly and inclusive of people of all abilities. These programs should be designed to build understanding and empathy among students and community members.

Racism, homophobia and disrespect thrive only in silence and inaction. By coming together and taking this pledge, we can turn this moment of pain into one of growth and progress for our school community. The future of New Trier’s culture depends on the actions we take today.

Please sign this pledge to support these changes and to uphold the New Trier motto: “Commit minds to inquiry, hearts to compassion, and lives to the service of humanity.”