Students Protest Surveillance of Two Girls Kissing

Gig Harbor High School Students Rally for Privacy and Inclusivity

In a striking display of advocacy and solidarity, dozens of students from Gig Harbor High School gathered outside their institution on a crisp Monday morning. Their cause? To voice their concerns and seek justice over a decision that has sparked widespread controversy and debate within their community.

At the heart of the protest was the action taken by the school’s dean of students, Keith Nelson, who utilized the school’s surveillance system in a manner that many are calling into question. After observing two female students sharing a moment of affection—kissing and holding hands—Nelson found footage of the incident on the school’s surveillance system. In a move that has since ignited a firestorm of criticism, he showed this video to the parents of one of the girls, upon their request to be informed about their daughter’s behavior.

The aftermath of this decision was immediate and profound. The parents, after viewing the footage, chose to transfer their daughter to a different school district, a decision that has not only affected the lives of those directly involved but has also raised serious questions about privacy, surveillance, and the rights of students.

Amber Critchley, a student journalist covering the demonstration for the school paper, captured the essence of the protest. The students, she reported, were united in their belief that the use of surveillance video in this context was not only inappropriate but also a misuse of a system intended primarily for security purposes.

Despite the disruption, classes at Gig Harbor High School continued as usual. Principal Greg Schellenberg, acknowledging the peaceful nature of the demonstration, commended the students for their conduct. The protesters, donning T-shirts emblazoned with “free love” and brandishing peace signs, made their stance clear without resorting to chaos or disruption.

In a significant development, Principal Schellenberg has since conceded that the decision to show the surveillance footage to the parents was a mistake. Moving forward, he has assured that the school’s surveillance system will be used strictly for its intended purpose—monitoring security and disciplining actions such as trespassing, vandalism, and fighting.

This incident at Gig Harbor High School serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles for privacy, inclusivity, and understanding in our schools and communities. It highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and action to ensure that all students feel safe, respected, and valued, regardless of their identity or who they love. As this story continues to unfold, it stands as a testament to the power of student activism and the importance of standing up for what is right.