'My Pronouns Are USA': MA School District Investigation LGBTQ+ Vandalism

BURLINGTON, MA — Some students damaged posters, rainbow flags, and other symbols of LGBTQ+ pride at Marshall Simonds Middle School, according to a statement from Superintendent Eric Conti. The incident occurred June 2 during a National Pride Month celebration by the school's Spectrum Club, a student group for LGBTQ+ students and allies.

"The rise in anti LGBTQ+ violence across the country is unacceptable and has no place in our schools," Conti wrote said in a statement. "The Burlington Public Schools are obligated to provide a safe environment for all students to feel safe, seen, and respected without retaliation."

Conti said that staff "have and will continue to receive resources, materials, and training to help identify and respond to identity bigotry and discrimination."

The Burlington Equity Coalition, a group of local organizations committed to building an inclusive community, said in a statement that some students protesting against the pride celebration reportedly wore red, white, and blue and chanted "My pronouns are U/S/A."

"The Burlington Equity Coalition stands in support of and solidarity with the members of the school community who were harmed by these acts of intolerance," the coalition's statement reads. "We call upon the school administration to address and provide consequences for the students who participated in the counter protest."

Parents and allies voiced concerns about the protest against the pride celebration at a Burlington Select Board meeting Monday, according to NBC-10 Boston.

Parents and the Equity Coalition asked the board to act and reinstate a diversity, equity, and inclusion subcommittee.

The Burlington School Committee meets Tuesday night, and it's expected that discussions about the issue will continue.