I teach eighth-grade West Virginia studies. My curriculum covers everything about our state, from the Adena mound builders to the latest floods or mine collapses. With a limited number of school days each year, some topics inevitably get left out.
Last year, I was fortunate to reach the Mine Wars. On the final day of school, while other classes were playing games, watching movies, or going outside, I chose to teach one more lesson. There was an essential topic I hadn’t covered yet, and I felt it was crucial to address before my students moved on to high school.
“Show of hands,” I asked my students, “how many of you think you have to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance?”
Most hands went up. Recent news suggests some school administrators might also raise their hands.
I then showed my students a short video about the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette. In 1942, two young girls, the Barnett sisters, were expelled from a Kanawha County elementary school for refusing to recite the pledge. Their father, Walter Barnett, sued the state board, and the case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.
On Flag Day in 1943, the Court issued a 6-3 decision, ruling that “[i]f there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion, or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein.”
Politicians in West Virginia respond to the first presidential debate
Marie and Gathie Barnett, not even teenagers at the time, had the courage to stand up for their beliefs. Their actions redefined American patriotism.
Today, a survey from Tufts University suggests that rural youth feel disconnected from the political process. In West Virginia, voter turnout for 18-29 year-olds, volunteerism among 16-29 year-olds, and political engagement on social media for 16-29 year-olds all fall below national averages. The survey data indicates that one way to increase youth involvement is by ensuring they have high school experiences where they can express their voices and beliefs.
“Among students who strongly agreed that they had high school experiences in which they felt their voices and opinions mattered, 81% said they are extremely likely to vote in the 2024 election,” the report stated.
Every student should know the story of Marie and Gathie Barnett. Their story is a powerful reminder that even the youngest among us can and should exercise their voice. It shows that when young people speak up, change is possible.
This coming school year, I’ll make sure to cover the Barnett case. I even know the perfect time to teach it.
Joeal Bright is a committed journalist at WVPrepBB.com, focusing on USA and crime news. With a knack for in-depth reporting and a dedication to delivering accurate and timely information, Joeal keeps readers informed about crucial national events and crime stories. His work on WVPrepBB.com is essential for those seeking comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis of current events in the United States.
