Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Latin Times
Latin Times
Allison Walker

White Ex-Principal Demoted After Withholding Diploma from Celebrating Student Sues School for Racial Discrimination

Lisa Mesi, former Philadelphia High School for Girls principal filed a lawsuit against the district alleging racial discrimination following demotion for withholding diplomas from celebrating students at graduation ceremony. (Credit: Philadelphia School District)

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.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.