WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) – A protest planned for before the start of classes at Wausau East High School on Monday morning was canceled.
The organizers sent out a press release last Friday morning to inform the public that they were gathering to protest a teacher who allegedly used inappropriate and offensive language toward a student back in April.
At this time, it is not known why the protest was canceled or if it will be rescheduled.
Some students created an Instagram page called “eastbandstudents” to refute each of the accuser’s and protesters’ claims of racism saying, “The accusations against Rob Perkins are widely dramatized and inaccurate. Students reported that if Perkins had said these things he was being accused of, and they would not be comfortable being anywhere near him or his classroom.”
“The Wausau East band is deeply struggling with mental health issues and stress related to this situation. Additionally, students of color in the band who are attempting to spread the true story are silenced and told that their recollections don’t count. Our band and director have always spread the message that all are welcome into our community and that our space is one of acceptance, inclusivity, and above all, safety,” the students continued.
They finished their post by saying, “The common narrative that we stand for anything other than that, as well as many of our students being called racist, sexist, homophobic or discriminatory, despite being a part of many of the groups they are being accused of hating, is deeply distressing to our students and highly untrue.”
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction opened an investigation into the alleged incident last week and is yet to release any updates. Depending on the findings of the investigation, the department has the authority to take action, including revoking the teacher’s license.
Official details of the incident are still unclear, and there is no timeframe for when or if they will be released.
