Investigation Underway Following Allegations of Racism at High School Football Game

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) is currently looking into serious allegations of racist remarks made during a football game between Tillamook and Milwaukie high schools. The situation escalated to the point where players chose not to return for the second half of the game.

A couple of players from Milwaukie shared their experiences with the incident. Javen Smith, a player for Milwaukie High, explained that he heard a Tillamook player use the n-word directed at a teammate after a play. “It hit me,” Smith said, expressing how the remarks affected him as a person of color. Despite feeling the impact, he decided to hold back his reaction, hoping the coaching staff would handle the situation. Unfortunately, the slurs continued throughout the game. Smith recalled, “We have teammates that are not even my skin color getting called the n-word (and) me getting called the n-word.”

Justin Brandon, who is involved with the Milwaukie Football Booster Club, added that there was a discussion between coaches and referees after a player reported being called a racial slur. However, things took a turn when the referee reportedly repeated the slur, despite being asked not to. This prompted the Milwaukie coaching staff to send out a letter to families explaining their decision to withdraw from the second half of the game, prioritizing the safety of both players and coaches.

Defensive player Ja’Rez James expressed concern, stating, “If we played any more of that game, I think one of us would have got in a fight, possibly get injured, and I don’t want that for the team.”

The Tillamook School District has responded to these allegations, announcing that they are investigating in collaboration with the OSAA. They noted that if the claims are established, it would contradict their organizational values, as they strive to maintain a safe environment for student-athletes.

Brandon emphasized that such racist behavior is not just a local issue but a statewide problem, expressing hope that the OSAA can enforce accountability for both players and officials. He insisted, “If a referee ever uses that language, they should never be able to referee another game in the state of Oregon.”

As the investigation is ongoing, the OSAA has indicated that they cannot provide further comments at this time.