Pennsylvania school board reverses decision to cancel speech by actor and anti-bullying advocate Maulik Pancholy

The Cumberland Valley School District in Pennsylvania faced backlash after initially canceling a speech by actor and anti-bullying advocate Maulik Pancholy. The decision was met with criticism from students, parents, and community members who believed it was due to Pancholy’s sexual orientation.

After two weeks of outcry, the school board held a special meeting and ultimately voted 5-4 to reinstate Pancholy’s visit to a local middle school. Pancholy expressed his gratitude in a video posted on social media, thanking the community for their support and praising the students who spoke out during the meeting.

The actor, known for his roles on “30 Rock” and “Phineas and Ferb,” is also an author of children’s books on bullying and LGBTQ inclusion. The meeting, which lasted over five hours, included apologies from some board members, including Bud Schaffner, who faced calls for his resignation over remarks about Pancholy’s sexuality.

While some community members accepted the apologies and the board’s reversal, others felt it was not enough. Students and parents emphasized the importance of acceptance and anti-bullying efforts in the school district, with one eighth-grade student calling out the board for their actions.

Despite the controversy, parent Trisha Comstock, who started a petition to reinstate Pancholy’s talk, emphasized the ongoing work towards creating a more tolerant and inclusive community. The incident sparked discussions about the importance of belonging and acceptance in schools.

The school district and community are now focused on moving forward and continuing efforts to promote empathy and inclusivity for all students and staff.