California High School Students Under Investigation Over “Hateful, Homophobic Slur” In Group Photo
A photograph of students taken at Redwood High School has shocked the nation this week. It depicted the many students spelling out a homophobic slur, which has been branded unacceptable behavior by the school district.
Visalia Unified’s superintendent is being forced to speak out this week and is promising an investigation into the matter. Superintendent Kirk Shrum added that “appropriate action will be taken.”
“We have recently been made aware of an image circulating in which Redwood students coordinated to spell out a hateful, homophobic slur,” Kirk Shrum said in a statement sent to YourCentralValley.com. “This is unacceptable behavior and this matter is being thoroughly investigated and appropriate action will be taken.
“Every student deserves to feel respected, protected, and valued on our campuses. We will continue working to ensure our schools are places where dignity, belonging, and accountability guide our actions.”
The picture at the center of the controversy shows a group of about 10 Redwood high schoolers seated. They are wearing shirts with letters and numbers that spell out what the district is calling a “hateful homophobic slur.”
“A lot of people at school, including the senior class, are really upset about the ignorant and rash actions of people that were in the photo,” says an unnamed Redwood High Senior.
What Did The Shirt Say That Was Spelled By The Redwood High Students?
The 10 students from Redwood High School posed for a photo in white T-shirts spelling “Fa–ot.” That is, unfortunately, a word that has been used many times in the past, especially during sporting events.
Those letters on their tees were for a senior class photo inside the gym. However, they initially posed for a picture that spelled out, “Always Legit, Class of 2026.”
But they pulled off the disturbing stunt afterward, using the “6” for the “g” in the slur. The term is derogatory against the LGBTQ+ community, and it is also considered to be hate speech.
The school’s associated student body was leading an eight-grade orientation on Thursday when some ASB leaders reacted to two middle-school boys holding hands. It is unclear if eighth-graders who were on campus for incoming freshmen orientation saw ASB students staging the photo.
According to the district, the Redwood administration will take action and provide necessary consequences in accordance with district policy and law. It is unclear what the consequences might be for those who took part.
California High School Students Under Investigation Over “Hateful, Homophobic Slur” In Group Photo
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