The decision to cancel Maulik Pancholy’s anti-bullying speech at Mountain View Middle School in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania has sparked controversy and outrage among parents, students, and school district employees. Pancholy, known for his role in “30 Rock,” was uninvited after school board members expressed concerns about his “activism” and “lifestyle.”
During the school board meeting, board member Bud Shaffner stated, “If you research this individual, he labels himself as an activist, he is proud of his lifestyle and I don’t think that should be imposed upon our students at any age.” Another board member, Kelly Potteiger, raised concerns about Pancholy discussing his book, “The Best at It,” which features a gay middle school student.
In response, Pancholy took to Instagram to express his disappointment, highlighting the importance of representation for South Asian and LGBTQ+ individuals in children’s literature. He emphasized that his goal is to let all young people know that they are seen and that they matter.
The Cumberland Valley School District’s leaders also condemned the school board’s decision, stating that Pancholy’s sexual identity should not have been a factor in canceling the assembly. Parents, led by Trisha Comstock, have started a petition to reinstate Pancholy’s speech.
Despite the setback, Pancholy remains grateful for the support he has received from the community. He hopes that every student at Mountain View Middle School knows that they belong and are deserving of love and support. The controversy surrounding Pancholy’s canceled speech has sparked a larger conversation about inclusivity and acceptance in schools.