Racism found its way back to high school football Friday night at a high school football game in Georgia.
According to 13WMAZ TV, a photo featuring five white male students wearing jerseys that spell out the five-letter version of “Ni**er” at the West Laurens vs Bleckley County game was posted on social media. The station was alerted by people who saw the photo.
Laurens County school superintendent Clifford Garnto issued a statement to the station stating, “We are truly disappointed in the choices of these students.”
No specific disciplinary action was mentioned but Garnto did note that the actions of the students did not represent the district’s values and that “every action has consequences.”
“Our Laurens County Schools Administration is fully aware of the derogatory photo circulating on social media outlets. We do not support, nor condone, any offensive actions of this nature. We are truly disappointed in the choices of these students. The environment and teaching at West Laurens High School fosters love and respect among our students for each other. What is observed in this picture is completely misaligned with the values of our school and community. Rest assured, the incident is being investigated. We have to be responsible for our actions, and every action has consequences.â€
The local NAACP chapters have reached out to the district about the racist incident.
“We’re in 2022 and who still thinks that’s ok to do,” said Victor Cooper of the Bleckley County NAACP. “It was a bit disheartening, disappointing; but after I thought about it, not so much surprising.”
We’ve seen racism permeate itself at all levels of sports, but the level of its presence in high school and youth sports is especially disgusting and alarming.
From an announcer using the “N-word” on air at a high school basketball game and racist taunts by ignorant fans at games to racist incidents at high school football games across the country, the hate is on display for all to see.
The incident from Friday night is still under investigation. We will keep you updated as news arises.
