School Board denies Tribal Drum group commencement participation

Graduation ceremonies are meant to be inspiring, happy events to congratulate and encourage graduates. But one Northland commencement is mired in controversy.

Students and supporters have been protesting a new graduation rule put in effect at Hinckley-Finlayson high school. They are upset over a school board decision earlier this week that prevents the Native American Student Association and it’s Drum Group from drumming and singing the Ojibwe Traveling Song at next week’s graduation.

On Monday night, the school board voted to limit presentations and performances by all extracurricular student groups at next week’s graduation.

One parent, Leah Miller calls it oppression, saying “We have to do better as a community.”

School superintendent, Brian Masterson declined an interview with WDIO News but explained in a statement that the reason for the change is to ensure the graduation ceremony remains focused on the graduating students rather than any student groups.

Masterson said, quote – “The district is offering its Ostrand Fine Arts Center to all student groups before and after the graduation ceremony so groups can perform for their friends and family.”

The Hinckley-Finlayson high school graduation will be held on May 24th at 7 p.m.