BELLEVILLE, N.J. — A group of teachers at Belleville High School has drawn criticism for wearing “Gulf of America” T-shirts, a reference to a past executive order from former President Donald Trump to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
The shirts, worn during a dress-down day on Jan. 31, have been perceived by some as a political statement. Critics argue the message is particularly divisive in a district with a significant Latino student population.
A Belleville High School teacher condemned the act on social media, calling it an attempt to intimidate Latino students who fear immigration enforcement.
The controversy has sparked debate over free speech and political expression in schools, with district officials yet to comment publicly.