Just to clarify my position--
I have no idea whether or not a legal case can be mede for considering noose hanging as a hate crime. I think the principal's proposed action in suspending the culprits was an appropriate one.

I think that the white kids who assaulted a black kid should be prosecuted, and I think that a failure to prosecute them is unconscionable. THose in authority should be investigated and punished appropriately.

I don't think any of the above justifies--in any way-- te actions of the six black kids who beat up a white kid.