Durant High School senior Jordan Davenport, who addressed the school board last week about not being allowed to wear his Choctaw regalia for his graduation photo in the yearbook, is now allowed to use a picture of him wearing it, the Durant School District said, in a news release published Oct. 9 on social media.
DISD said it was affirm- ing its respect for all cultures. Under a prior policy, seniors were only allowed to wear the traditional cap and gown for senior portraits. Wearing tribal regalia at graduation is allowed.
“After careful consideration and through open conversation and collaboration with multiple stakeholders, the district has agreed to use Jordan Davenport’s original senior cap and gown photograph that includes tribal regalia,” DISD said. “The district will also review existing district polices to ensure all students feel culturally respected and represented in our schools.”
During the school board meeting, Davenport recited the First Amendment and he said Oklahoma law allows students to wear tribal regalia.
“I want to be clear, I believe the student handbook should allow students to express their culture in an appropriate way,” Davenport said. “If I’m denied my right, I will take the higher up. I ask from the bottom of my heart that you reconsider. Not just for me, but for every student who comes after me who wants to express their culture in an appropriate way. The more culture is seen, the more it thrives. Do not let this be another chapter of culture erasure. Let it be a chance for our community to come together to respect inclusion and resilience.”
DISD said the outcome reflects a shared belief in the importance of honoring each student’s heritage and that students have the ability to wear school-appropriate clothing that celebrates their cultural traditions throughout the school year. Last week, DISD hosted a Hispanic Heritage Celebration at the intermediate school.
“We value our partnership with the Choctaw Nation and their willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue,” Superintendent Mark Moring said, in the news release. “Jordan’s courage in sharing the importance of his cultural heritage with the board of education was inspiring, and we appreciate all feedback from stakeholders on issues of importance to our students.”
Choctaw Chief Gary Batton commended the school district for working with the tribe to support Native American students.
In a social media post after Davenport spoke to the school board, Batton said, “So proud of Jordan Davenport for standing up for our ancestors, our history and culture and for our future tribal members by asking the Durant Public School to allow him to wear his traditional shirt for his senior pictures. He voiced his opinion firmly and gave facts of why it should be allowed while at the same time being diplomatic and respectful. Yakoke Jordan for being a true Tushka.”
