Normally, a headline such as this causes an immediate reaction along the lines of disgust and outrage, but the details in this case don't seem to be typical.
Lynn Pierce teaches an Advanced Placement History class at Heritage High School in Newport News Virginia, and was having a discussion with Juniors and Seniors on Native Americans. According to NewsChannel 3, at some point during the discussion, a student asked Ms. Pierce "What's the big deal with calling them Redsk*ns?", in reference to the Washington Redskins NFL football team.
Ms. Pierce tried to explain why the term is inappropriate and derogatory to Native Americans by using football teams as an example, and responded to the student:
"What would you think if someone started a team called the Newport News N****rs?"
Several students then reported Ms. Pierce for the comment, stating it was offensive. Pierce, a teacher for more than 40 years, has been placed on leave while the incident is investigated. School officials are talking to students.
A petition to "Bring Back Ms. Pierce" has already been signed by more than 250 people.
Ms. Pierce awaits her fate at home while on suspension, which is normal procedure for a complaint of this type. If the allegations are judged to be unfounded, she will return to work. If they are found to be genuine, she will face disciplinary action.
The school system had no comment at this time.
According to the latest census data, Newport News, Virginia is 41% African American.
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