Wednesday, June 13, 2007
More Than a Sandwich
I think people divide the world up and depending on what they believe, they see either troublemakers or heroes. But I don’t think that’s right. I think that’s just what an American citizen is -— participating in democracy and protecting what you believe in your heart.
So says Matthew LaClair who, at 16 years old, took on a popular teacher who was abusing his position by proselytizing in class and the school board who was more than willing to sweep it under the rug and, instead, blame the messenger. Despite having the school, the school district and most of the students against him, Matt and his parents stood up to the pressure and forced a settlement from the board by which teachers and students will be instructed in proper separation of church and state, as well as in the difference between the science of evolution and the religious belief in creationism. The school board also agreed to commend Matt for his "courage and integrity."
There were times when it was really tough. When it first came out in the newspaper, and I lost a lot of my friends. But I would have felt a lot worse if I didn’t do something about it.
It may be just what an American citizen should do but that doesn't mean you aren't a hero anyway, Matt.
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