No Place for Hate (NPFH) works to promote inclusivity at Marshall. They create, plan and implement events to promote awareness and understanding of people with disabilities. NPFH is a program in which the Anti-Defamation League works with schools to improve and maintain a positive school climate where all students can thrive.

Last year, NPFH planned and created a video lesson presentation about supporting inclusion for special needs students, especially those with physical disabilities. The lesson focused on ensuring that these students get the best education possible. The video lesson was shown to every student, and teachers engaged them in a conversation.

NPFH organized an event at the end of last year to give students with physical disabilities graduation cords. These long pieces of colorful rope are typically given for academic achievement or participation in a school club. These students’ cords were awarded to celebrate the courage and perseverance of students with special needs who completed their graduation.

This year, NPFH is soliciting ideas from different grade levels to improve inclusivity throughout the school.

Gavin Sandall is a senior at Marshall and a member of the NPFH leadership board. In his junior year, he signed a banner supporting inclusion for all students and he knew he wanted to be a part of No Place for Hate. As he looked back on the experiences in his life that guided him when he saw that banner, he said, “My parents raised me to be inclusive of everyone in the world. I’m passionate about being a part of it, rather than just sitting back and watching it happen.” Another student, AJ Oliver, said, “No Place for Hate is important to me because I firmly believe that no one should face hate or discrimination at school, in their community, or in larger society. I want to be able to do my part in promoting equity and inclusivity for all.”

Gavin said, “Hate manifests itself by excluding students in the school with simple phrases and words that are hurtful and that can divide students and separate people from being included and accomplishing certain goals. The overall goal is for all students to get the best education possible at Marshall.”

When asked how No Place for Hate is related to peace, Gavin responded, “Hate is the opposite of peace. Spreading inclusivity will help foster peace.” The NPFH leadership board is working to continue to improve student life at Marshall next year and in the future. They remain positive about changes happening. Gavin said, “Even a small change is a success.”