For over a year, concerned parents at Henry Clay Elementary School in Rolando, a suburb of San Diego, California, have been advocating for the renaming of their children’s school. The school is currently named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman known for his involvement in preserving slavery and controversial legislation leading up to the Civil War. The parents believe that this name does not align with the values they want to instill in their children.
The parents have been actively involved in a campaign to rename the school, which has gained support from other parents, school staff, and community members. In addition to renaming the school, they also want to rename the adjacent Clay Neighborhood Park. This movement is part of a larger trend within the San Diego Unified School District, where various stakeholders have been advocating for renaming facilities that honor historical figures associated with racism.
After facing pressure from the community, San Diego Unified officials agreed to rename Henry Clay Elementary. However, concerns arose regarding the transparency of the renaming process. The selection of the new name was done by an anonymous district committee in closed-door meetings. The proposed name, Rolling Hills Leadership Elementary, was considered by the initiating parents as lacking transparency and failing to address the desired restoration they sought. They had suggested honoring four Black women, but their suggestions were overlooked in favor of a name described by the district as “neutral.”
The school board was supposed to vote on the name change, but it was withdrawn from the agenda due to concerns raised by the community. District officials have expressed the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in the renaming process, and they are committed to considering all voices.
Henry Clay, born in 1777, held various political offices and played significant roles in shaping American history. However, his legacy is marred by his support for legislation that perpetuated slavery and exacerbated divisions in the country. His resistance to legal challenges from enslaved individuals further tarnishes his reputation.
The choice to name Clay Elementary after Henry Clay reflects historical inequalities as it was named in the 1950s during a period marked by racial segregation in housing. This name sends a troubling message, particularly in a school where the majority of students are students of color.
There have been proposed alternatives to honor individuals who could serve as positive role models for students. Suggestions included bell hooks, Octavia Butler, Amanda Gorman, and Bertha Pendleton. However, the district’s decision-making process has raised questions about inclusivity and representation.
The lack of transparency in the renaming process has fueled skepticism among parents about the selection of the proposed name, Rolling Hills Leadership Elementary. Many parents feel that it does not address historical injustices and fails to honor notable individuals who could inspire the students.
Moving forward, the district plans to revisit the renaming process, placing emphasis on inclusivity and community engagement. The controversy surrounding the renaming of Clay Elementary highlights the broader discussions about representation, historical accountability, and the importance of community input in decision-making processes.
