“Everyone is Welcome” is not a coded phrase for a select group. It’s a straightforward declaration of inclusion, writes guest columnist Christina Bruce-Bennion. (Getty Images)
The recent story of a West Ada School District teacher being required to remove a classroom poster that simply states “Everyone is Welcome” because it was deemed not “content neutral,” should give us all pause. At first glance, this might seem like a minor incident in a single classroom, but its implications are far-reaching.
Everyone means everyone. It is a foundational principle of education that every student who enters a classroom should feel welcome — because without that sense of belonging, meaningful learning cannot happen.
“Everyone is Welcome” is not a coded phrase for a select group. It is a straightforward declaration of inclusion. If such a message is now considered unacceptable in our schools, we must ask: What is the alternative?
History provides troubling answers. Our past is filled with exclusionary signs: “Whites Only,” “No Japanese,” “Chinese Not Allowed,” “Muslim Ban,” “Men Only,” “No Catholics Permitted,” “Jews Out,” and so many more.
These words did not just reflect discrimination — they helped to enforce and normalize it. Today, we have an opportunity to choose differently.
Most faith traditions teach love and hospitality, and most families teach their children to be kind and play with all kids. Now is the time to lean into those values, not turn away from them.
At the Wassmuth Center, we teach about the “Spiral of Injustice,” a framework for understanding how communities can descend into discrimination and violence. The spiral begins with language — because language shapes what we see as acceptable. Words either foster belonging and peace or lay the groundwork for avoidance, exclusion and harm.
If we affirm that “Everyone is Welcome,” we set a standard: All students, employees, and community members deserve to feel seen, heard and safe. If we reject that message, we risk normalizing its opposite.
Our democracy, though imperfect, has moved — sometimes slowly, sometimes painfully — toward greater inclusion. The idea that “Everyone is Welcome” remains aspirational, but it is one worth protecting, reinforcing and striving for in every space, including our classrooms.
At the Wassmuth Center, we are committed to fostering communities where all belong. Join us in this work — learn more and get involved at www.wassmuthcenter.org.
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