Clovis Unified School District has history of racist policies, from refusing to provide consequences for racist students to explicitly attempting to cover up racist controversies rather than addressing such situations. Several CUSD students have posted derogatory words and images on their social media platforms without any repercussions.

The lack of inclusion and respect for minority groups is clearly reflected in the holidays we are given. As we all know, the district gives all students and teachers numerous days off in the winter and spring. Though the vacations are referred to as “Winter Break” and “Spring Break,” it’s entirely clear students are given the weeks off for Christmas and Easter. Unfortunately, this same recognition is not provided for holy days of other religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism.

Understandably, we cannot have days off for all holidays; however, the very least CUSD can do is schedule significant events around these holidays. For instance, schools in the district have held graduation ceremonies during Ramadan in the past. This blatant ignorance has made it difficult for students of various beliefs and faiths to feel respected and understood.

It’s time to make a change; please sign the petition to have Eid al-Fitr/Eid al-Adha, Diwali, Yom Kippur, Vaisakhi, and Rosh Hashana recognized by CUSD.