On Friday, Oct. 31, Principal Allyson Mizoguchi sent a memo at 7:30 a.m. to Wayland High School parents and students regarding a racist incident that occurred in the boys locker room.
According to Mizoguchi, a yellow plastic “children at play” street safety figure, wearing the athletic jersey of a Black student, was found hanging by a belt around its neck from a ceiling pipe in the boys locker room.
“This centuries-old symbol of hate and racial violence evokes deep emotion and has no place in our community,” Mizoguchi wrote.
The incident is currently being investigated, and Mizoguchi says students responsible for the incident have already been identified.
“At this time, our investigation is ongoing,” Mizoguchi wrote. “Accountability for those involved and support for those impacted are our priorities as we take next steps.”
Mizoguchi concluded her message by reaffirming the school’s commitment to inclusion and safety.
“As we continue an active investigation of this incident, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of every individual who learns and works at WHS,” Mizoguchi said. “We do not tolerate acts of hate in Wayland, and we will take all appropriate actions to ensure accountability, learning and healing within our community.”
On Monday, Nov. 3, a rally organized by Wayland Can will take place outside of WHS from 7:45 a.m. to 8:30 a.m..
This is a developing story subject to updates
