Iowa Students Pose with Hoods, Gun and Burning Cross

A group of students in Creston, Iowa were photographed next to a burning cross, wearing KKK hoods, holding a confederate flag and a rifle. The image was shared on social media and is causing an uproar in this small town 70 miles south of Des Moines.

CBS2 News reports Creston Community High School Assistant Principal Jeff Bevins first told the Creston News Advertiser that the school became aware of the photo early Wednesday morning. According to CBS2 News the students have been disciplined by the school, although no specific actions were mentioned, nor have any names been released.

This is outrageous and unacceptable on so many levels. It takes the wind right out of your sails. This kind of negative exposure really gives Iowa a bad look. But what to do next?

I believe the kids should be questioned to determine their level of understanding, intent and awareness of what makes their actions so horrific. The historical atrocities of the KKK are not fiction, and they are no laughing matter.

I also believe that young adults are bound to make mistakes and often use poor judgement. So I also believe that the parents should sit these young men down and have a serious talk with them.

Imagine if this was one of your kids in the photo. How would you feel if your child participated in this type of stunt? What would you say to him or her? How do you explain the the reason why we don't condone this type of behavior?

[source:  Creston News Advertiser, CBS2 News]