VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The families of two Kempsville High School students said their sons experienced incidents of racial harassment, bullying, hate speech, and ongoing taunting, according to a statement released by the Hampton Roads Black Caucus.
The statement comes two weeks after the incidents of racial harassment on the baseball team at Kempsville High School came to light.
One of the families also said their son experienced an incident of physical aggression.
Multiple members of the school's baseball team have allegedly been implicated and found guilty of racist actions and misconduct, according to the release.
The statement went on to say that the families would not be pursuing legal action.
Instead, the families said they would be focused on working with the Virginia Beach Public School Division to drive positive change in the areas of inclusion and diversity, the statement said.
"We are committed to working with the Virginia Beach Public School Division to promote a culture of inclusion and diversity," the spokesperson said. "Our ultimate goal is to move forward, building a united community that values diversity and camaraderie, both in sports and within the classroom.
Later Friday, Superintendent Donald Robertson released a statement calling the incidents a "dark day" for the school system.
As Superintendent of VBCPS, I want to be perfectly clear: Racism, hate speech, harassment, and discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated in our athletic programs or within our schools. We have long-standing policies against discrimination and hate speech, we provide staff training on the importance of belonging and well-being, and we benefit from a diverse student body. I am working closely with families and staff to revisit our policies and practices, enhancing our understanding of diverse cultures, and ensuring strict consequences for those who fail to demonstrate respect for all people.
