NEW ALBANY, Ind. (WDRB) -- After accusations of racism, the New Albany Floyd County School Corporation is speaking out.
This morning, community members protested outside school board headquarters in New Albany, saying school officials haven't done enough to prevent racism.
The group is upset about an incident that happened last month at a middle school basketball game between Highland Hills and Parkview. The game was referred to as a "Black Out" game, and students were encouraged to dress in all black to show their school spirit. Some students at Highland Hills wore black masks, including a gorilla mask and one featuring President Barack Obama's likeness.
The parents of some students at Parkview, which has several African American students and players, questioned if racism was involved.
The school corporation says counselors also went to Highland Hills classes to explain why those masks could be seen as offensive.
"The concerned citizens feel, and the parents feel also, that there has been an injustice done," said Marcia Booker, one of the protesters. "We feel...that when we complain to the corporation, they slap a bandaid and whatever issues there are, it's like African Americans don't count."
Protesters are calling for the Highland Hills principal and school board officials to step down.
The Highland Hills principal has apologized to Parkview.
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