Wednesday, November 15, 2006

San Francisco Boots Jr. ROTC

This is one is filed under "We used to live there." My wife and I lived in the Bay Area from 1996-2001 and much of what contributes to San Francisco's reputation is basically true.

Look no further than the recent decision to ban Junior ROTC from San Francisco public schools. A few quotes should suffice:
  • "We need to teach a curriculum of peace."
  • "We don't want the military ruining our civilian institutions."
  • "JROTC discourages thinking for oneself."

So with a 4-2 vote, the SF Board of Education voted to end JROTC. The 90-year-old program will be phased out after two years. The primary motivation was the JROTC's connection to the larger military and its "Don't ask, don't tell" policy towards gays. In the words of one elected official, "The JROTC creates an uncomfortable environment for other students." This is despite the fact that the JROTC in San Francisco included openly gay students.

Did anyone stop to think that the existence of gay and lesbian student clubs (who also use public facilities) might create an "uncomfortable environment" for students who disagree with those lifestyles? Of course not.

San Francisco Chronicle Article

San Francisco Chronicle Editorial (this one might surprise you).

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