Letter of Protest

The MultiCultural Council of New York in coordination with LILTA (Long Island Latin Teachers Association) as well as, with our sister organization of APACE-LI (Asian Pacific American Council of Educators) has presented the following letter to the Amityville School District's leadership the following letter:

                                                                                                                                June 14, 2025

We, the undersigned of this statement, firmly denounce the actions by a school nurse who chose to wear a jacket with the acronym  ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) during a school “Superhero Day” event and kindergarten graduation at the Northwest Elementary School in the Amityville Union Free School District.  To wear such clothing harms the trust that immigrant students and families place in public schools as safe and welcoming spaces.

For numerous immigrant communities, ICE is not a symbol of heroism.  It represents disruption, detention, separation and instability.  Regardless of intent, this action created an emotionally unsafe environment that affects the entire school community and undermines the inclusive principles that our schools are meant to uphold.  The presence of symbols that may evoke trauma, fear, or exclusion violates the inclusive and respectful climate required under the New York State Dignity for All Students (DASA).

We stand in solidarity with our immigrant communities.  At a time when educators should be modeling empathy and inclusion, this offensive act sends a chilling message to immigrant students.  We call on the district leadership to respond with accountability, cultural awareness/sensitivity training, review of district policies regarding staff conduct, and a recommitment to DASA.  These steps are essential not just for addressing this isolated incident but to ensure a school culture that supports students’ safety, well-being and academic success.  Every child in every school community deserves to attend a school where they feel safe, supported, and valued.

In solidarity,

Soh Young Lee-Segredo, President

Linda Leaf, Exec Board Member

Diann McCabe, Exec Board Member