For Immediate Release

SCARSDALE, NY –  On Tuesday, Scarsdale and East Ramapo school officials announced that they are investigating a reported racially charged attack at the girls basketball game in Scarsdale last weekend. 

Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response:

“There is no place for racism or hatred of any kind on the court, in our schools, or any other place in our society. The reports of racial slurs at last weekend’s basketball game are unacceptable. My team and I will continue to follow the situation and await the conclusion of the ongoing investigation. It is our responsibility as parents and educators to teach against hate and center love so our children can do better.

Sports are a refuge for many students, and a place where kids can come together to build community and understanding with one another. Hatred in all its forms can make sports feel unwelcoming and unsafe. We must work together to ensure that our schools are prepared to be safe environments, combat hatred, and promote peaceful dialogue. The collective work of fighting all forms of hate requires us to tell the truth about our history and society by giving students opportunities to learn accurate, unbiased information about the past and present. It also must include fostering discussion and engagement with diverse peers, perspectives, and cultures. We cannot shy away from the hard work of education, but we must remember and teach the importance of compassion, mutual understanding, and empathy for all communities. This is the only path towards a society that centers peace and our shared humanity.”