Two sisters and student-athletes in Utah were reportedly subjected to racial harassment by an opposing team's fans.
News 4 Utah reports Sky View High School students Darcy and Emmie Woodward were subjected to racial obscenities and profanities at them during a recent soccer match from fans of their rival team at Alta High School Tuesday, August 14.
"Skin color has never mattered. It’s never been anything that I’ve focused on," Darcy told the outlet.
The sisters, who were adopted by Mark and Kate Woodward said they’ve felt accepted by their community in Smithfield.
"It was probably 10 minutes into the first half when I heard a guy say, 'Black lives don't matter,'" said Emmie. "I was so hurt because I never thought people would say something like that to me."
According to Fox 13 Salt Lake City, Kate Woodard wrote a post on Facebook describing the harassment her daughters faced which included the use of “n****r.”
"One person said, 'Hey, number 20. I hope you’re embarrassed.' I heard another one of them say, 'Nice shot, n****r,'" said Darcy.
During the game, the girls made the referee and the staff members aware of the taunting, but no one took action.
"There are two aspects to this whole thing. One is with what the students were doing. But the second is what the adults were NOT doing," said Kate. "This is bullying. This is abuse, and parents need to step up and teach their kids that this is not acceptable in a high school situation or a sports situation."
The Canyons School District, which both schools belong to, has launched an investigation into the matter.
"Canyons District has a very strong anti-discrimination, harassment, bullying policy. We do not tolerate acts of discrimination, harassment, or bullying on any Canyon District campus," said spokesperson Jeff Haney. "We want to make sure that any student that comes to Canyons School District, whether they're part of one of our schools or part of an athletic team from another school, that they feel welcome."
Allegations have led the district to implement stricter protocol surrounding player conduct.
"Any verified acts of discrimination or harassment or bullying, there will be discipline to the full extent under policy," said Haney. "We have also started a plan to how we will address this within the Alta High community. It's important for us to send the message loud and clear that all students are welcome."
Games may be moved to larger fields to prevent future incidents involving harassment from the audience. The Alta High soccer teams have invited the girls to dinner to make amends.
Now, check these out:
Angela Rye Tears Into Pro-Trump Pastor Who Says She Should Star In The Next ‘Diary Of A Mad Black Woman’
Trump's Tribute To Aretha Franklin Truly Has The Internet Confused
