
A former principal of Philadelphia High School for Girls, who went viral for withholding diplomas from students during a graduation ceremony, is suing the school district for racial discrimination.
Lisa Mesi, who served the district for nearly three decades, claims her demotion was unjust and motivated by her race. The controversy stems from a viral video showing Mesi denying diplomas to three students who had celebrated on stage, including Hafsah Abdul-Rahman, who performed the "Griddy" dance at her June 2023 graduation.