On Monday, Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear issued the following statement about the racist incident over the weekend at Noblesville High School:
“As Noblesville Schools students returned to class today with an increased police presence, a portion of their day will be spent discussing race and diversity.
Ditslear
“I implore us all to be strong in our collective message that racism, or marginalizing anyone based upon their gender, religion, ethnicity, national origin, disability, age, family status, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated here. The Noblesville community is above that and we must stand together. Racism, hatred and this threat of violence will not be tolerated.
“I want to recognize Noblesville Schools and the Noblesville Police Department for the handling of Friday’s incident. Police began investigating the threat in question immediately and extra safety precautions were taken. Since being detained by police, the school district has begun expulsion proceedings on the student. I also want to thank everyone that attended the community forum on Saturday afternoon, and for the Noblesville Diversity Coalition and NHS student leaders for organizing it so quickly.
“Noblesville is our home. It is home to more than 65,000 residents. We have different backgrounds, different languages, different religious beliefs and different skin colors. Our differences do not divide us, but make our community stronger and richer. We all call Noblesville home. We all want the best for our children and to live in a safe, nurturing environment.
“As the district holds its own discussions with students, it is important for every family in Noblesville to have their own conversations with their children about diversity and inclusion. This conversation will continue so we can make real, meaningful change and ensure this type of incident never happens again.”