School Cancels First Grade Thanksgiving Play Over 'Sensitivity' Concerns

Stone Bank Elementary School in Oconomowoc (Wisconsin) has canceled its first grade Thanksgiving play "out of respect for Native Americans" and concerns about "the sensitivity of this time in our history." "Unfortunately, the children are unable to dress as a Pilgrim or Native American," teachers wrote in an email to parents. "We apologize if you already purchased or made your child’s costume. There have been some conversations and concerns about the accuracy of the first Thanksgiving story. Out of respect for Native Americans, and the sensitivity of this time in our history, we are not going to reenact the first Thanksgiving story. "Please disregard the practice paper your child has been busy reading over the last few days. We still plan to have a Thanksgiving program where the children will perform a play, sing some songs, and share a big book with you. Again, we are sorry for the change of plans and hope that you understand." Before the re-enactment play was canceled, parents were sent a handout instructing their children to learn a brief line about the first Thanksgiving.

Parents expressed frustration and anger over the cancellation, with several telling "The Dan O'Donnell Show" that it was "ridiculous.""The teachers have been doing this for years without an issue," one parent said. "Why is it different now?...MORE