The West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) announced it is investigating “racial harassment and inappropriate remarks” allegedly made by student-athletes during recent varsity baseball games.
One of the games in question occurred April 23, during which Pinole Valley High players are accused of making racist remarks to Albany High players of Asian descent.Â
In cellphone video captured by an Albany High parent, one or more people can be heard shouting comments including “P.F. Chang is that you” and “Baljeet” to separate Albany pitchers.
According to news reports, the Pinole Valley baseball coach apologized to the Albany team days after the game. But some parents allege the team is responsible for racist comments during an April 16 game against El Cerrito High. They want to see the team face consequences, according to KTVU (CH. 2). Pinole Valley High’s varsity baseball team is currently undefeated in league play at 10-0, with an overall 11-10-1 record.
In a letter to parents, WCCUSD Interim Superintendent Dr. Kim Moses said a formal investigation remains ongoing into reports from both games. The district is “working to determine which individuals will be held accountable for the reported insults,” she added.
Meanwhile, administrators at Pinole Valley High are “actively addressing behavioral expectations and the student code of conduct.”
In addition, Moses said the district will regularly distribute a Fan Code of Conduct guide at sporting events.
“We recognize that these allegations have caused harm, particularly to the players who were targeted and the broader Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community during a time when we are meant to uplift and honor their voices and experiences,” the district stated in its letter. “To those who have been impacted, please know you are seen, heard, and valued in our school communities.”
