Well, the college is located in Washington State, after all.
Five members of the (private Christian) Whitworth University women’s soccer team were suspended for one game after “attempting to appear as members of music group The Jackson 5 at an informal event at a local bowling alley.”
The big no-no: They were donned in blackface and afro wigs.
“In light of the impact that these actions have had on Whitworth and the greater Spokane community, we feel it is in the best interest of all involved to take this action at this time,” head coach Jael Hagerott said in a statement Wednesday. “While their intentions were not malicious, the outcome of their actions was painful for many in our community. We feel that this punitive response is proportional to their actions.”
His decision was supported by the university’s administration.
According to the Spokesman Review, athletic director Tim Demant and other university officials said Tuesday they met with all five players, whom they declined to name, and said the players said they were not aware of the racist implications of the use of blackface.
RELATED: Controversy Over Photo of Student in Blackface at Columbia U.
Whitworth Athletic Director Tim Demant said “… we are seeking to use this situation as an opportunity to educate, redeem and restore.”
So, one requires redemption after imitating a hugely popular music group.
RELATED: Man Wearing Obama Halloween Mask Deemed Racist.
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