Tyranny of the minority

Yes, it does happen (of course it does). Political correctness strikes again. This article from the Boston Globe reports that the Underwood Elementary School in Newton has canceled their Halloween celebration. Why? Because a 'handful of parents' indicated they would keep their children from school that day, because the celebrations offended their religious beliefs.

Here are some choice quotes from principal David Castelline:

Not everyone is going to agree with the decision, and I really understand that, but I felt the goal was really important to make it a respectful and open and welcoming place for all members of our community.

When I hear that kids won't come to school because of what we're doing on Halloween, I have a problem with that.

So, being respectful now means caving in to any small concern, even from just a few individuals? Would the school disavow Thanksgiving at the objection of some Native American families? Or refuse to acknowledge Veteran's Day because some student is the grandchild of a Japanese war veteran?

What world does Castelline live in, where it is possible to please everybody and avoid stepping on anyone's beliefs? What's wrong with a few kids staying out of school one day? Would they have been harmed as much as the rest of the community was by this decision? The most charitable thing I can say about this is that Halloween is certainly not an essential part of a child's education, so it's not like a vital part of their school experience has been lost. However, the community has lost one more opportunity to share traditions that are simply part of America. If it's not your tradition, fine. Make it a teaching moment: explain to you child why you disapprove (and don't send them in dressed up as Harry Potter).

Castelline's comment that 'not everyone is going to agree' may be the understatement of the year. An unscientific poll by one local TV station placed the disapproval level at about 89 percent.

Interestingly, this situation appears to be the opposite of the one conjectured by Bruce Tinsley. Although I have no inside information, my guess is that the parents objected not because Halloween is Christian, but because it is not. I don't find the response of the principal as a liberal vs. conservative issue either. To me, it's just one more example of the breakdown of Common Sense in America.

Here's my bottom line: the U.S. Constitution does not guarantee 'the right to not be offended'.