An elementary school in Chicago has pulled the plug on a “Christian” haunted house after discovering that the organizers planned to include scenes based on real-life tragedies, including the Pulse Nightclub shooting from the previous June. Talk about a spooky misstep!
Fernwood Elementary had initially agreed to partner with a group called Tyrone Tappler Productions for an event dubbed “The Room: A Journey to Hell.” However, the school only found out about the controversial content when promotional materials started circulating. In addition to the Pulse Nightclub scenes, the haunted house was set to feature a botched abortion and the Charleston church shooting. Yikes!
Michael Passman, a spokesperson for Chicago Public Schools (CPS), stated, “The event organizers misrepresented the actual content of the event. We did not approve any association with the activities now advertised, and the event will not take place on CPS property.”
This fiasco raises some eyebrow-raising questions about the school’s judgment in even considering a haunted house of this nature. First off, why on earth would a public school even think it was appropriate to host a “Christian” haunted house? And what did the school expect? Did they think it would be a delightful journey through tales of Noah with zombie animals? Or perhaps the Three Wise Men chasing after visitors with chainsaws? Seriously, there was no scenario that wouldn’t offend someone.
Moreover, how did they only discover the true nature of the haunted house just days before it was supposed to happen? Even if it were just a regular spooky attraction, you’d think they’d want to vet the content well in advance before letting kids attend.
Tyrone Tappler, who describes himself as a minister and, let’s be honest, a real piece of work, didn’t hide his intentions. Back in August, he put out a Facebook call for volunteers that read: “Club Pulse, Dancers, Victims … CAGED PEOPLE/SCREAMERS, Extras needed trying to escape a cage!” Really? Sounds interesting? Well, no thanks.
On the Eventbrite page, the haunted house was described as an “in-your-face” experience where attendees would encounter dark realities and face “life or death; sin or salvation; heaven or hell.” Given that 49 people were killed at the Pulse Nightclub, it’s hard to see how this fits into any kind of “Christian” narrative, unless Tappler believes those individuals deserved their fate due to their lifestyle choices. Ugh.
Tappler has responded to the backlash with tweets that have been met with overwhelming criticism. If he was looking for attention, he certainly got it, but not in the way he likely hoped.
It’s baffling that this was considered appropriate for an elementary school setting! If you’re curious about more about pregnancy and home insemination, there’s excellent information over at the Center for Reproductive Health. And for those considering home insemination kits, check out Cryobaby’s combo kit for a reliable option. Also, don’t miss out on our blog post about self insemination for more insights.
In summary, a “Christian” haunted house featuring depictions of real-life tragedies sparked outrage and was canceled by a Chicago elementary school. The controversial event raised questions about appropriateness and oversight, leading to a swift decision to distance the school from the production company behind it.