Posters intended to support diversity and dialogue were asked to be removed from teachers’ classrooms Feb. 16 at Westminster High School in Maryland because they were perceived to be anti-Trump, according to CBS News Baltimore. This action is a direct violation of teachers’ first amendment rights. There is nothing anti-Trump about supporting the recognition of Americans no matter their appearance.

The artwork was created by “We the People,” a campaign dedicated to initiating dialogue and a broader understanding of the nation’s identity, according to the Amplifier Foundation. Artwork on the posters depicts women of different ethnicities clad in patriotic clothing. The images do the opposite of encouraging hatred of anyone, they evoke a sense of pride and make a statement acknowledging the United States’ mass diversity.

Another reason for the removal of the posters was the suggestion that the classroom is not a political platform, according to CBS News Baltimore. However, respect for the diversity of cultures in the United States is not a political issue. It is ethical. The humanity and respect all people deserve should be important to both sides of the United States’ divided political parties.

The posters were released a day before the inauguration of President Donald Trump, and were intended to make a statement of unity and healing for those shaken by the outcome of the election. Artist of “We the People” campaign Shepard Fairey has also created political posters in the past, but her political stance should not discredit her views on the condition of the United States and its need to reunite after a divisive, painful election.

Creative outlets and images that sympathize with those who feel outcast and discriminated against are not meant to stir up resistance but to ensure that people feel heard. The purpose of art is to make a statement. But people and organizations also make a statement when they choose to openly disenfranchise and encroach on people’s basic human rights to be heard. School must be a safe environment that cultivates students’ opinions, and any school’s administration should support an environment in which teachers are allowed to encourage students to form their own opinions.

The goal of the “We the People” campaign was to make a statement through artwork. The removal and controversy over the posters at Westminster High School drew even more attention to the subject. Though some may have wanted to prevent politically charged discussion, their actions resulted in the opposite effect.