An assembly held at an Illawarra high school in support of the Black Lives Matter movement has elicited national outrage.
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Outspoken politician Mark Latham took to the airways on Tuesday to express his outrage at Albion Park High School and its principal for 'involving students in Black Lives Matter'.
But many in the school community have backed what transpired at the We Stand Assembly.
The assembly was held on Friday, July 24 to coincide with the last day of retiring principal Suzi Clapham.
Speaking at the assembly Ms Clapham said:
"We here at Albion Park High wish to show our own solidarity, not just to those in the US who are marching against hate, but our own Indigenous population here in Australia, who have faced their own trials and tribulations, and in the spark of protests in the US, believe that word must be spread of what has happened to them as well."
Later she added "around the world, protesters are taking a knee to peacefully protest the Black Lives Matter movement.
"Year 12, committee groups and the Aboriginal leadership team will now be taking a knee. Anyone who would like to join, feel free."
These comments did not sit well with One Nation senator Mark Latham, who expressed his disappointment while speaking on 2GB radio with host Ben Fordham.
"The first duty of care a principal has to the students if you are going to be kneeling to an organisation, is that they are credible and respectful," Mr Latham said.
"The principal only had to spend five minutes going to the Black Lives Matter website to see that this is a self-confessed Neo-Marxist outfit that believes in de-funding the police, attacks the nuclear family, believes in gender fluidity.
"We know in NSW they have broken court and health orders... so is that really the sort of organisation we are promoting as a role model in NSW schools to the point where students are kneeling.
"This kind of politics shouldn't be happening in schools."
Some parents backed Mr Latham's comments but many also took to social media to support Albion Park High and the school principal.
"My kids came home moved by this. They talked about how our expectations should change and we should look to make a difference. Great job Albion Park High School."
A Department of Education spokesman said "violence or racism in any form is not accepted at NSW public schools. The assembly was organised by students. It is important that schools are mindful of the controversial issues policy at all times."