Following a peaceful demonstration outside Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech High School Friday, students and community members gathered at Buttonwood Park Saturday morning for a community rally demanding change and accountability at the north end school.

The recent dismissal of guidance counselor Jimmy Owens has sparked outrage among some that believe the firing was in retaliation for his support of a group of students led by his daughter, Ja'Loni, a senior at the high school.

Ja'Loni and others formed the Concerned Students of Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech in response to what they call a discriminatory atmosphere within the school. The group held a forum addressing these issues of racism and sexism last September.

During Saturday's demonstration, a group of over 30 concerned members of the community had their chance to speak out.

Bruce Rose, president of the New Bedford chapter of the NAACP, said it is time for change within the school and to offer more transparency when it comes to issues of discrimination.

"Whether or not there was just cause for [Owens'] dismissal, the manner in which it was conducted appeared to have all the trappings of an intentional infliction of humiliation," Rose said. "Students should not be subjected to an educational environment that condones or offers fertile grounds for such injustices."

Elected officials were invited to the demonstration, though only one member of the GNBVT School Committee attended.

Rita Rebeiro said she supported the students in their efforts to call attention to and change the school's climate, and assured them things will change.

"Just give us time. I am working desperately hard with a new administration that's not perfect but I promise you that things will change," Rebeiro said.

Jimmy Owens has since filed a formal complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.

More From WBSM-AM/AM 1420