SAULT STE. MARIE — Sault Ste. Marie-area school boards are investigating after a social media post postponed boy's high school basketball league title games, as reported earlier.
The social media post was racist in nature.
“The Algoma District School Board was shocked and saddened by a racially driven social media post that circulated following a Korah/St. Mary’s College basketball game. We do not tolerate racism, or racially driven comments of any kind,” said Lucia Reece, ADSB director of education in an email.
“We are working in collaboration with our co-terminus school board to determine the source of the post, which, given the nature of social media, may take some time,” Reece said.
“As there is always misinformation that circulates on social media, we caution people about drawing conclusions with limited context and information or spreading inaccurate information. As the safety and well-being of our students is always our first priority, both school boards agreed to postpone the final game until we are confident that we have the accurate information we need to implement further consequences and next steps. We appreciate everyone’s understanding as we work through this very complex and serious incident,” Reece said.
“Communication was sent by each school board to both the St. Mary’s College and Korah Collegiate school communities on Saturday, March 26 advising them that the boards are working in collaboration to investigate the very concerning social media post. To say the least, we were very shocked and saddened by the nature of the post and do not tolerate racism or any racially-driven comments,” said Danny Viotto, H-SCDSB director of education in an email.
“As mentioned the matter is being looked into and we are unsure how long the investigation will take,” Viotto said.
“We do ask that all remain respectful and understanding throughout this process as the facts are being gathered, so that a fair and due process is being followed for all those involved. We are grateful for those who have brought this matter to our attention and ask that information be forwarded to the principals of St. Mary’s College and Korah Collegiate,” Viotto said.
The junior final - when it is eventually played - will see the St. Mary's Knights compete against the White Pines Wolverines.
St. Mary's will also compete in the senior final against the Korah Colts.
-with files from Brad Coccimiglio
