Everything with the Smithville High School case feels just all wrong to me. Mackenzie Martinez, the cheerleader, had worked hard for years and had done really well academically, but then she was forced to face something no one should ever have to face.
At the cheer banquet, she was told it would be junior variety, only at home games. It has to hurt to hear that in front of so many people. Adding insult to injury, other cheerleaders were given plaques, trophies, and flowers while Mackenzie was handed a solitary flower. Such contrast is hard to overlook.
The moment conveyed that Mackenzie was being treated differently. Not only did this take away from her efforts, but it also showcased her long-standing struggles with racism within the district. Such experiences slowly build up and haunt you, making you feel like you’re doing nothing.
After that banquet, Mackenzie was disappointed, and I do understand why. Anyone would feel broken after putting in so much effort only to be put aside. I have witnessed others in my school undergoing similar treatment, and even if teachers say there was nothing personal about it, it still hurts.
Her mother, Pamela Lehman, was unable to remain silent. She described on her Facebook account the ordeal her daughter had been encountering. Racist words were directed at Mackenzie, comments about deportation, and all gross stuff. She tried to ignore it and asked her mom not to intervene. That shows how hard she tried to be strong.
But that cheer banquet was the last straw. Pamela said conditioning Mackenzie for junior varsity was totally unjust. Especially since other cheerleaders with similar grades and effort were given better opportunities, in her post, she asked for legal assistance, saying that while the school professes to support Christian values, it does not support discrimination.
Her post went viral. Members of the community began to voice their opinions. One of them, calling the school’s treatment disgusting, expressed a hope that the family will receive answers. Another suggested going straight to the superintendent rather than just the school staff. Others commented on how the school fails to incorporate diversity, which is an unfortunate situation in this day and age.
The entire affair regarding Mackenzie Martinez at Smithville High School clearly demonstrates that racial injustice is a very deep-rooted and real problem. Even when students have gone above board, their effort is still never enough. Mackenzie deserved all the respect, recognition, and opportunity afforded to any other student. No one should have to feel downtrodden simply because of their skin color. You may also be interested in: Joseph Allred Accused of Stealing Dogs, Running Scams, and Cheating Arena Football Leagues in Multiple US States
