Elementary School Principal Says Swastika Is ‘Symbol of Peace’ in Some Religions — And Backlash Is Swift

The backlash was swift after an elementary school principal in Washington state said the swastika is a “symbol of peace” in some religions — and now the principal is on administrative leave.

A swastika was found Monday on a wall at Phantom Lake Elementary School in Bellevue, KOMO-TV reported. After the discovery, the school district said Principal Heather Snookal sent two messages, KIRO-TV reported.

In her first message — a school text alert — the principal wrote that such “symbols of hate” have surfaced in their school and that the swastika was removed immediately, KOMO said, adding that the principal also encouraged families to communicate with their children the importance of respecting others and standing up against hate.

Hours later, parents shared with KOMO an email from the principal with the subject line: “Follow-up on recent incident and cultural awareness.” The station said the principal in the email apologized for not acknowledging in her initial text alert that while a swastika is often associated with hate and intolerance, it’s important to acknowledge the swastika also has deep historical and cultural significance in other parts of the world. She also thanked members of the community for bringing it to her attention, the station added. (Read more from “Elementary School Principal Says Swastika Is ‘Symbol of Peace’ in Some Religions — And Backlash Is Swift” HERE)