By Ali Al-Rumaih, The-14
February 29, 2024
In the heart of Saint-Laurent, QC, Canada, a recent social media post by Lauren Hill Academy (LHA) teacher, Ms. Stacey Kaufman, has ignited a wave of concern among parents and students, leading to a petition and a protest against the alleged promotion of violence and anti-Palestinian sentiments.
The incident unfolded on February 17, 2024, when Ms. Kaufman reportedly posted a message on her Facebook account, encouraging a friend to “Get in gear and get into Gaza!!”. The post, accompanied by a photo of the friend in military attire, has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism for its perceived advocacy of violence.
Parents from diverse ethnic backgrounds have come together to express their shock and dismay through a Change.org petition directed at the English Montreal School Board (EMSB). The petition by Parent Montreal emphasizes that the post violates a teacher’s obligation to maintain neutrality, inclusivity, and to refrain from promoting violence. Concerned about the potential impact on their children and the broader community, the parents are urging the EMSB and the police to investigate the incident as a possible “hate crime and a breach of the teacher’s work ethic and moral conduct towards her students.”
The timing of the post is particularly sensitive, coming just months after a severe military campaign in Gaza, resulting in widespread displacement, hunger, trauma, and over 30,000 have been killed, of whom more than half are children. The petition argues that such remarks, especially from an educator, create an unsafe environment and contradict the values of tolerance and respect that schools are expected to uphold.
In the wake of this social media incident, a protest organized by Parent Montreal took place in front of Lauren Hill Academy, Senior Campus on Wednesday, February 28, at 2 pm. Organizers, parents, students, and other community members, gathered to express their concerns and demand accountability. The heightened police and security presence underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for a peaceful and organized demonstration.
The protesters articulated four key demands:
1. The dismissal of Ms. Stacey Kaufman for inciting violence.
2. An end to all student repression.
3. A withdrawal of biased disciplinary actions against students.
4. A withdrawal of all pro-Israeli statements published by the EMSB.
As the controversy unfolds, the EMSB and LHA administration are urged to promptly investigate the matter and take appropriate actions to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all students. This incident raises questions about the responsibilities of educators on social media and the potential impact of their statements on the school community. The protest on Wednesday will serve as a visible expression of the community’s concerns and demands for accountability in this challenging situation.
Note: Attempts to reach Ms. Stacey Kaufman, the school administration of Lauren Hill Academy (LHA), and the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) for their perspectives were not made before the publication of this article. Their responses are welcomed and will be included in future updates.
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