High School Drama: Free Speech or Hate Speech? The Battle at Twelve Bridges High School

At Twelve Bridges High School in Lincoln, a student-led conservative club called Club America has ignited a debate that’s as fiery as a high school cafeteria food fight. Accusations are flying as some students claim the group is spreading hate speech, while others believe it’s a vital platform for civil dialogue. The drama hit a peak during a recent school board meeting where around 60 speakers passionately voiced their opinions.

On one side of the aisle is Garrett Culp, the club president, who insists that the group is all about civic discussion and respect. Then there’s Rebecca Warner, one of the students pushing to have the club disbanded, claiming it breeds division and even has led to harassment among students. It’s a classic clash of ideals, with each side drawing battle lines.

Adding to the intrigue, Lincoln Mayor Holly Andreatta spoke at the club’s first meeting, becoming a focal point after an edited video of her comments circulated online, raising eyebrows and questions. Andreatta quickly took to Facebook, defending her statements and clarifying the context of her words.

It’s clear that the stakes are high in this local debate over free speech versus hate speech. Whether you stand with the club or against it, one thing is for sure: the conversation isn’t going quiet anytime soon in the halls of Lincoln’s high school!