American citizens are constantly bombarded by commercial advertisement. No form of media today would be complete without an endless supply of adverts constantly informing the consumer of the newest gadget available for purchase.

Advertisement is so deeply ingrained in American society that it has become part of who we are. It is a piece of our identity without which we would cease to be us. Advertisement has infiltrated almost every aspect of the American citizen’s day. The one place that has somehow managed to remain free of such offense has been the reputable American school system. Sadly however, this is no longer the case in all schools.

A group of students at WHB have recently expressed concern over the placement of oversized products in and around the school’s library. These students are upset about the paper mache sculptures mounted on the bookshelves that feature specific product names.

Senior Jaclyn Hernandez explained, “In this world of over advertisment and bombardment of products, I feel offended by the presence of these sculptures. I feel like I’m walking into Times Square as I approach the library. I come to school to learn, not to be subjected to compulsory toothpaste commercials.” Hernandez is not alone in her outrage over this product placement. Many students are profoundly disturbed by what they consider to be distasteful advertisement.

Senior Marissa Ebert stated, “I no longer feel secure in my school library.  The safe haven once referred to as a library now has the feel of a museum honoring Andy Warhol.” Other students have even gone as far as to say that these pieces of artwork have actually deterred them from wanting to read. “If the library itself is a mere front for advertisment, how can we be sure the books inside them aren’t trying to brainwash us as well?” asked Ebert.

        Students are quickly jumping on board with this movement to rid the library of these unpleasant pieces. One student, who asked to remain anonymous, explained, “The worst part about protesting this is feeling like you’re fighting the fight alone. For years I’ve felt isolated from my peers because I was distraught over something they seemed to not even notice. It wasn’t until this year that I finally found someone who shared similar views towards these pieces. Together we and a few other students have created the #thisisntfreedom to provide support to others who feel they have no one to talk to about their feelings towards the library’s art.” These students encourage anyone reading this to tweet using #thisisntfreedom in the hopes that children of future generations won’t have to.