Article Summary –
The Cumberland Valley School District in Pennsylvania initially canceled an anti-bullying presentation by openly gay actor and author Maulik Pancholy due to concerns about his “lifestyle,” but later reinstated the event. The decision to cancel was met with criticism and a Change.org petition that amassed over 9,000 signatures. Despite some board members’ continued opposition, the board voted 5-4 to allow Pancholy’s presentation to take place at a local middle school.
Pennsylvania School Board Reverses Cancelation of Gay Author’s Anti-bullying Talk
The Cumberland Valley School District in Pennsylvania has reinstated an anti-bullying presentation by openly gay actor and author Maulik Pancholy, going back on their previous decision based on concerns over his “lifestyle”. The board’s ruling to allow the “30 Rock” actor’s presentation at Mountain View Middle School in Mechanicsburg on May 22 was closely contested, with a 5-4 vote in favor on April 25.
Board President Greg Rausch publicly apologized for the initial decision, emphasizing the importance of promoting diversity and understanding among students. He stated, “We all live in a very diverse and constantly changing world. For our children to be successful after graduation, we need to provide them with a good education that includes the skills to help them interact with others of different faiths, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and sexual orientations.”
Pancholy is also known for his children’s literature. His recent novel, “Nikhil Out Loud,” focuses on a gay Indian American boy finding his voice, according to HarperCollins.
The decision to disinvite Pancholy on April 15 led to a wave of criticism nationwide. A Change.org petition was launched to reverse the decision, and it had garnered over 9,000 signatures by April 25.
District administrators expressed disappointment in the board’s initial decision in a letter made public on ABC27 News. Pancholy himself also addressed the issue on Instagram, questioning why the board feared empathy-building literature.
The board’s about-turn prompted apologies from board president Greg Rausch and board member Bud Shaffner, whose comments about Pancholy’s “lifestyle” had contributed to the backlash. Despite some continued opposition, Pancholy accepted the renewed invitation and expressed gratitude and support for the community on Instagram.
—
Read More Pennsylvania News
