Issues@Hand

AFA initiatives, Christian activism, news briefs

January 2015 – South Arbor Charter Academy in Ypsilanti, Michigan, has garnered national attention after replacing murals in a corridor that previously featured the likes of Mother Teresa, Betsy Ross, Albert Einstein, Gandhi, U.S. astronauts who died in service to the country, and other national and international historical figures. 

The images were painted over, and the wall now boasts images of Oprah, Walt Disney, President Obama, and J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series. Many parents were infuriated. “This is no longer a hall of heroes,” said parent Craig Bergman. “Now we have a hall of celebrities.” 

School spokesperson Jennifer Hoff attributed changes to the 11-year-old Heroes Hall to renovation needs and a corresponding intentional shift from “historical heroes” to “modern-day heroes.” 

“The mere fact that you have talent doesn’t mean you are a hero,” said parent Todd Holiday. “I want someone who made a life investment – perhaps they even sacrificed their life – so that our society and so our world could be a better place.”

foxnews.com, 11/13/14; theblaze.com, 11/14/14