KENNEBUNK — A teacher's commencement address at
Kennebunk High School's June 10 graduation ceremony has angered some in
the community who say it condoned bigotry and ruined the day for some
graduates and their families.
The address,
made by KHS economics teacher Sean Watson, has sparked a wide range of
responses, from those who said they were left "appalled" to others who
stand behind the challenge presented in the speech. The speech resulted
in e-mails and calls to KHS and RSU 21 administrators from parents and
students offended by its content, and earlier this week caused
Superintendent Andrew Dolloff to respond with an e-mail to the district
community and prompted a heated discussion at Monday's RSU 21 Board of
Directors meeting.
In the address, Watson attempted to challenge
and present though-provoking questions to the students in a way that
turned political, ultimately telling the students to "tolerate
intolerance," seemingly arguing against affirmative action, and
questioning forms of government.
"I'm arguing
that affirmative action is unfair to bigots, and even bigots have a
right to be treated fairly," Watson said in the speech. "I disapprove,
and I hope every one of you disapproves of bigotry. But the private
virtue of tolerance and the public virtue of tolerance require us to
tolerate things, which we do not approve. (This speech perhaps.)"
When reached, Watson referred to Dolloff's letter and declined to make any other comments.
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