Alleged racist taunts delay Iowa softball game
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(ABC 6 News) – An investigation has been launched after claims of racial taunts during a softball game in north Iowa resulted in fans getting ejected.
Thursday evening, a softball playoff game between Charles city and Waterloo East ended up being marred by a delay in action after a group of students were ejected from the crowd over accusations of racist taunting.
ABC 6 Sports reporter Richard Denson was at the game but says he did not hear any claims of racist taunts. Denson did say he was informed a parent brought up a complaint to the umpires prompting the students’ ejection.
The group would end up standing nearby from a distance that was technically outside the complex.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has asked for an official investigation into the claims stating, "Student athletes must be able to compete free of racist intimidation or harassment."
Charles City high school released the following statement:
"The Charles City High School administration is conducting an investigation into inappropriate comments allegedly made at a regional softball game the evening of July 7 in Charles City. Upon being made aware of the alleged comments, administrators onsite worked with game officials to ensure play resumed as soon as possible.
Our school administrators are working closely with the Waterloo Community School District and its athletic department to gain a full understanding of what took place Thursday evening. Charles City CSD and Waterloo CSD officials have obtained a game video, captured within a few feet of the alleged incident. We are reviewing the video for any potentially inappropriate activity.
Please know that we take this issue very seriously. The district will issue the appropriate disciplinary action for any students found to be at fault for the alleged incident, per district policy. As always, our top goal when it comes to sporting events is to provide a safe, welcoming, supportive, and positive environment for all student-athletes, coaches, and spectators."