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Many have expressed their opinion about the Anderson High School Marching Highlanders, usually about their uniforms or the decisions the director has made. The only opinions that matter are those of the students marching in these uniforms who must comply with Mr. Fletcher’s decisions.
I was a member of the Marching Highlanders during the original Six Pillars of Character show in 2005. That summer, Mr. Fletcher instilled upon us how important it is to have character. Every contest, Highland supported Anderson and vice versa, regardless of it being a competition.
Citizens of Anderson are acting completely opposite of what Mr. Fletcher is trying to teach. Marching band isn’t about whom you are marching for or what you are wearing, it’s about doing your best and making memories you will remember forever. What past graduates need to realize is, your memories are ancient history; now it’s the current students’ time to make memories.
To those who are so vocal about the Indian tradition, that mascot can be offensive to those who are Native American and ACS should feel lucky no one has taken action against them. Everyone needs to stop complaining about decisions that have already been made and support these students who are devoting their whole summer to this activity.
I personally will support any marching band member whether it is the Marching Indians, the Marching Highlanders, or the Band of Pirates. Anderson citizens need to follow the example of the Anderson Marching Highlanders and the Six Pillars of Character.
Caitlin VanSickle
Anderson
