Latinos United for Conservative Action (LUCA) unequivocally stands by the two Keller High School seniors who were wrongfully censored this week by their school administration.

These two students were forced to paint over their parking space designs because they depicted pro-Trump imagery. One student skilfully painted President Donald Trump donning an American flag bandana and sunglasses, while another student painted 45/47, referencing the 45th president who may possibly become the 47th president come November.

The school administration came out saying the students violated their guidelines which prohibit “controversial, offensive, or obscene material” to be displayed. However, how is honoring a U.S. President offensive or obscene? We pay tribute to several of our Presidents on Mount Rushmore, our coins and bills, highways, and at numerous monuments and historic sites, just to name a few.

Students should not be denied their First Amendment right to free speech. Instead, they should be encouraged to express themselves artistically, contributing to a vibrant marketplace of ideas and opinions, free from the fear of censorship by their school administration. Students should not have to surrender their freedom of expression simply by stepping onto school grounds.

LUCA strongly urges Keller ISD to make this right by restoring the students’ right to free speech. By doing so, it will demonstrate its commitment to fostering a school environment where diverse ideas and perspectives are freely expressed and students’ voices are respectfully heard.