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A report by the NY Post published Sunday, Oct. 6 says that Israeli flags and yellow ribbons representing the Israeli hostages Oct. 7, 2023 were banned at the Wednesday, Oct. 2 club fair, as administrators felt they were "too political."
On Monday, Oct. 7, FLHS Principal Paul Gorski issued a statement in response to the report and a similar report by Fox News.
"Unfortunately, the article in question is inaccurate - it does not include all of the facts or share the actual context of the situation," he said. "To ensure transparency and provide a complete picture, the district is sharing this update with our community."
Gorski explained that both the Muslim Student Association (MSA) and the Jewish Student Union (JSU) were asked to adjust items that had not been part of their original displays for this year's club fair, held Wednesday, Oct. 2.
Gorski did not say which items were adjusted. Daily Voice has reached out for clarification.
"The decision to ask both groups to modify their displays was made in response to the disruptive impact that certain items were having on the learning environment," the principal said.
"All clubs follow the same rules and procedures regarding participation. The Club Fair is an opportunity for students to advertise their clubs through displays and to seek new members. Clubs are permitted to exhibit their organizations through their displays and messaging."
Both the MSA and JSU are involved in the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) "No Place for Hate" initiative, the principal continued.
"Fair Lawn High School is proud to uphold a zero-tolerance policy toward hate in any form," Gorski said. "As part of our ongoing commitment to the ADL’s No Place for Hate initiative, our administrators, staff, and students are united in standing against antisemitism and all forms of hate. We remain focused on building an inclusive community where every individual feels valued and respected.
"Student leaders continue to step up, inspiring their peers to be upstanding citizens, both inside and outside of school. We look forward to continuing this important work."
Click here for Principal Gorski's complete statement.
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