Editorial

While the book “13 Reasons Why” was published almost ten years ago, the widespread popularity of its accompanying Netflix show has led to its temporary review and removal from the Bedford Middle School library and the Bedford and Coleytown Middle School English book rooms.
As the Editorial Board, we recognize the complexity of this predicament. We ourselves have struggled to identify what is and isn’t the administration’s duty in regards to censorship and student safety.
We acknowledge the administration’s concerns, as many, including parents and students, feel that the show romanticizes suicide and paints it as a resolution to personal struggles. And we recognize that while the book and show differ, the popularity of the series has essentially intertwined the two, making it difficult to decipher the differences in message and overall theme between them.
However, the administration’s decision to disregard procedure and pull the book prior to a thorough review failed to abide by precedent set in the Supreme Court case Board of Education v. Pico, which limits a school board’s power to restrict the availability of books in its libraries. Therefore, the administration has jeopardized the student’s fundamental freedom to access information.
Regardless of the outcome of the review of the book, we believe that the facilitation of a discussion about suicide must take place within the school district.
We recognize that as a result of the lack of maturity of middle schoolers, engaging in a conversation about suicide is difficult. However, in order to prevent such a tragedy from taking place, educating both middle and high school students is necessary. By doing this, students will be better equipped to understand the warning signs of suicide as well as the ways to seek help for themselves and others.
There is a wide variety of educational methods that can be utilized in order to accomplish extensive comprehension and understanding of suicide. For example, Socratic discussions should take place where students may read literature commenting on suicide and discuss the issues. In addition, speakers with personal insight could present to the school or there could be a greater incorporation of suicide education within the health curriculum.
Last year, our community suffered the loss of a high school teacher and student to suicide; thus, we understand that the administration has to be cautious, and we understand why the administration might perceive the ideas expressed in “13 Reasons Why” as dangerous.
But hiding behind a blanket of ignorance is even more dangerous.
Our Editorial Board voted 24-2 in favor of this editorial.