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TISHOMINGO, Okla. – Tishomingo High School, located in Johnston County, Oklahoma, is under fire for a photo that shows six students displaying a racist slur. The photo began circulating across social media Wednesday evening, prompting a public response from the school district.
“Racism and discrimination, in any form, will never be tolerated or accepted on our campus,” stated Tishomingo Superintendent Brandon Moreland. “On behalf of Tishomingo Public Schools, I want to personally express a sincere apology to our students, families and community,” the statement continued.
The names of the students have not been made public per state and federal law. However, Moreland stated that the school took swift disciplinary action as soon as they became aware of the situation.
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As of Thursday morning, the school has increased its security presence in response to the incident. Additionally, the district has announced there will be an early end to the school’s Spirit Week activities to prioritize the safety of the students and community.
Response from Law Enforcement and State Elected Officials
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Department has also weighed in. “At this time this incident is a School and Parent issue, and they are handling the situation. This action does NOT reflect on the school or community as a whole,” the department shared in a Facebook post.
“The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office and Tishomingo Police Department’s main concern is the safety of all the students and staff. We will be enhancing security measures at the school and other events. Any threats to the school or any kids, due to this situation will be investigated as criminal.”
Oklahoma State Representative Jason Lowe, D-OKC, spoke about the outward display of racist behavior in a press release. “This type of so-called ‘celebration’ has no place in our country, our state and especially our schools,” Lowe stated. “It is 2024, we are long past the dark days when this hateful, racist word was commonly and publicly used. I will never condone hatred, bigotry, or racism in any form and I implore the Tishomingo School District to take punitive actions against these students for their unacceptable conduct.”
There has not yet been a response from the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
These white kids know the meaning will cause a highly reactive environment. Watching Trump?
I think if these white boys could play football or basketball, or be a part of the “in” group, they would focus on being a white boy than being MAGA / Trump supporters.