By Jennifer Moody
Albany Democrat-Herald | Posted: Tuesday, October 7, 2008 12:00 am
LEBANON - Lebanon High School students are protesting a decision to ban T-shirts and other items from a hardcore hip-hop band as "gang related."
The ban, which takes effect Oct. 15, covers any shirts, hats, jewelry or other items associated with a music duo called Insane Clown Posse, Principal Mark Finch said.
Junior Jessica McNeil, 17, spoke Monday at a meeting of the Lebanon School Board, asking for the board's help in reversing the decision. She passed around copies of a student petition that she said bore approximately 100 signatures.
"This is one of the shirts being banned right now," she said, holding up a large black shirt bearing the words, "The Opaque Brotherhood Tour." "I don't find it offensive or distracting."
Board members said they knew nothing about the band and would have to study the issue further.
Insane Clown Posse is known for its horror-circus image and violent lyrics. In other states, fans of the band, often known as "Juggalos" or "Juggalettes," have been involved in high-profile murders and assaults.
Finch said he did some research on the band earlier this fall, talked with students, then sent a letter to parents Sept. 30 notifying them of the upcoming ban. The delay is meant to allow parents time to replace the clothing and to give students time to talk with the board, he said.
"The kids have been wonderful in trying to work with administrators to get a win-win situation," Finch said.