It’s final.
Due to the U.S. Supreme Court refusing to hear the “I (heart) boobies” case, the lower appellate court’s ruling that the bracelets are free speech, protected under the 1st Amendment, puts an end to the Easton Area School District wasting time and energy since 2010.
The lower court sided with two Easton area female students, who sued the district in 2010. The students were in 7th grade at that time, but have received help from the American Civil Liberties Union. The two girls were suspended for wearing the “I (heart) boobies” bracelets because EASD felt the bracelets were lewd and disruptive. Easton is one of several school districts across the country to ban the bracelets, which are distributed by the nonprofit Keep A Breast Foundation of Carlsbad, Calif.
John Freund, the attorney representing the school district, said he was disappointed. He went on to say that it would take more “chaos” in classrooms before a similar case would be heard by the Supreme Court, which might once again address the bracelet issue.
In a thousand years, when archeologists try to discover why the ancient American civilization crumbled, they’ll find their answer when they unearth an “I (heart) boobies” bracelet. “Bracelet Chaos,” they’ll say.
Freund’s disappointment likely stems from not having a chance to argue a case in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, but it pales in comparison to the disappointment of the public in the EASD school board that refused to get its priorities in order.
The bracelets are worn to raise awareness of breast cancer. “Boobies” is by no stretch of the imagination, “lewd.” Finally, to propose the preposterous notion that the bracelets are “disruptive” is insulting the intelligence of parents.
What amazed most of the public was that EASD would pick a battle like this one in order to argue about maintaining control and discipline, when there are much better opportunities that present themselves.
Have boys pull their pants up above their ass cheeks. Start a “Don’t show crack” campaign.
Stop ignoring foul language on school property, as if it wasn’t heard by any staff.
Implement a school uniform.
And about a dozen more common sense policies.
Maybe EASD board members can stop thinking about boobies now, and get to more serious matters facing the Easton Area School District.
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.
