Citation

Kaplan HR. J. School Violence 2007; 6(4): 149-163.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J202v06n04_08

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

River Run High School, located in rural west central Florida, was the site for a case study of student conflict precipitated by the wearing and display of Confederate flags on campus. Following a series of tense student encounters over Confederate and other racist symbols, a conflict resolution team was invited to intervene. Team members created a series of student dialogues involving the principal disputants. Conversations revealed the basis of the conflict emanated from misunderstandings over history, stereotypical views of different ethnic groups, and inadequate lines of communication. While acknowledging the role for creating a climate of respect among students on campus, legal precedents have established students' rights to freedom of speech and expression that protect unpopular ideas. Tension and conflict on campus over free speech can be mitigated through ongoing dialogues among diverse segments of the student population.