The Day of Silence will take place on Friday, April 17th. This event has historically been a controversial one at RB.

If you do not believe in this day do not participate and do not disrespect the people who do participate. It disappoints me to hear students say, “If you participate in the Day of Silence then you’re gay.”

I completely understand that some people might have conflicting religious views. However, this is not an excuse to be rude and ignorant. I’d like to point out the fact that ANYONE can be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. Just because you are a certain religion or ethnicity does not mean you are automatically heterosexual nor does it mean those people are automatically homosexual.

Students, please take a minute to realize what would happen if you said these ignorant comments in your work environment. The person you say it to could be bisexual or they could be the sibling of a lesbian. Besides deeply offending someone, you could be fired.

Another element that adds to the controversy is (of course) political views. I can confidently say that no Democrat or Republican would condone speaking out viciously against a peaceful, contained day.

Please, let’s not use this day to start another liberal vs. conservative argument. Let’s take religion out of a public school issue. Don’t participate if you do not agree with the day. If you feel the need to express your dissenting opinion, then keep it respectful.

--Submitted by Emily Mussio, Editor-in-Chief