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The student news site of The Harker School.

Harker Aquila

The student news site of The Harker School.

Harker Aquila

The student news site of The Harker School.

Harker Aquila

At Harker, where the majority of the student body identifies as Asian — East Asian, Southeast Asian, Central Asian, South Asian or Pacific Islander descent or ancestry, casual racism is especially relevant.

Editorial: Casual racism is rebranded racism

by Editorial Board May 2, 2026
“Not to be racist, but your eyes are really big for an Asian.” Despite being worded like compliments, statements like these reduce people to stereotypes — and that’s exactly what racism does, even when disguised in well-intentioned comments or jokes. These remarks prove that racism still permeates our casual conversations, no matter how “anti-racist” people claim to be.
Students respond to unsatisfactory spirit results by blaming lack of spirit transparency or biased judging. This mindset can create tension between students and leadership.

Editorial: Rethinking the spirit of spirit

by Editorial Board March 27, 2026
The current emphasis on class rankings shifts the focus away from community, instead reducing weeks of hard work are reduced to a single outcome. Spirit rankings should cultivate shared experiences between students, not overshadow them.
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