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Beaverton public comments highlight sharp divisions over Middle East, free-speech and student safety
Summary
Dozens of public commenters at the Beaverton School Board meeting raised competing claims about free speech, alleged antisemitism, and student safety, pressing the board to clarify how schools will protect students and respond to controversial speech.
At the June 2 Beaverton School Board meeting, a series of public commenters pressed the board about free speech and safety in schools amid international conflict, saying the district must protect students from harassment while also respecting expression.
Those speaking represented competing positions: some urged the board to defend pro-Palestinian expression as protected speech and to avoid labeling criticism of Israel as antisemitic, while others described repeated antisemitic acts and said Jewish students no longer feel safe in district schools.
The competing remarks were offered during the board's public-comment period and included emotional testimony from parents, students…
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