The American Civil Liberties Union of Pa. was in court this morning to argue an appeal on behalf of two middle school students who were suspended for wearing the popular I (heart) boobies! breast cancer awareness bracelets.
The ACLU was in the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals at 10 a.m. representing Kayla Martinez and Brianna Hawk. In 2010, the then 13-year-olds were suspended and banned from a school dance at Eastern Area Middle School for wearing the bracelets to school on EASD's Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
The girls say their freedom of speech rights were violated. School District officials argue the word "boobies" is vulgar.
A three-judge panel began considering the case in April of 2012. In August, filings ordered that all active judges -- 14 in total -- hear the case.
The ACLU is helping in the appeal, hoping for an outcome that would allow students to wear the I (heart) Boobies! bracelets.
A decision in the case is not expected for at least a few weeks.
