A Michigan teen, Danielle Khalaf, 14, says her teacher told her to "go back to her country" after she chose not to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. The shocking incident reportedly took place on January 10 at East Middle School in Plymouth.
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According to 7 News Detroit, Khalaf was allegedly reprimanded by her teacher, Cari Soranno, who publicly called her refusal to stand "disrespectful." The eighth-grader later approached Soranno to explain her reasons, only to be met with the remark: "Since you live in this country and enjoy its freedom, if you don't like it, you should go back to your country."
Her father, Jacob Khalaf, has since called for stronger action against the teacher. Danielle Khalaf's father expressed his frustration with the school's response. Instead of holding the teacher accountable, the school allegedly suggested moving Danielle to another class.
"Their only solution was to put my daughter in a different class as opposed to doing anything with the teacher. They wouldn't tell us what type of disciplinary action, if any, was taken. I think the teacher needs to be removed," he told the outlet.
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'Danielle was exercising her constitutional right when she chose to remain seated during the Pledge of Allegiance. Instead of respecting her decision, the teacher humiliated her in front of her classmates and peers,' Joseph said during a conference with the Arab American Civil Rights League.
'And made a deeply offensive comment, essentially telling my daughter that she does not belong to this country. My daughter, an American citizen, being told she does not belong to this county,'
The non-profit organization is asking the school to conduct a thorough investigation and filed a formal complaint with the Department of Civil Rights. However, the Plymouth-Canton Community School District said in a statement that they have conducted an investigation and did not disclose any further details:
'The district became aware of this incident after it occurred. As with all complaints, an investigation was conducted, and appropriate action was taken in alignment with district policies and procedures. Because this is a personnel matter, we are unable to share specific details regarding the employee involved. To support those affected, the district facilitated restorative practices between the teacher and students to address any harm and foster understanding.'