We, the residents, students, families, and staff of the Berkley School District are deeply dismayed by the decision to lower flags to half-staff in honor of Charlie Kirk.  We condemn the murder of Charlie Kirk and all political violence.  Kirk, however, was a private citizen and online influencer, not a public official, dignitary, or first responder.  The president’s proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-staff applied only to federal government property.  The governor’s order applied only to state government property; it encouraged but did not require schools to participate.

Charlie Kirk was an antisemitic white supremacist.  He fostered hate and oppression of people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, religious minorities, and women.  Lowering flags in his honor signals a lack of respect for the dignity and safety of many of us.

We urge the Berkley School District to issue a statement clarifying that it does not endorse the views of Charlie Kirk and affirming a commitment to inclusion. Going forward, we urge the district to remember its stated goal of inspiring, empowering, and leading a culture of equity and well-being for students, staff, and community.