Huntington High School juniors Teddi Carnesi and Jahiem Hakwins have been selected to help moderate a 45-minute virtual discussion in partnership with experts in the field of racism and bias in society.
“In partnership with the Long Island Nets of the NBA G League, Section XI and Section VIII (Nassau) are implementing initiatives regarding equality and anti-racism education across high school sports called Team Up for Unity,” said Georgia D. McCarthy, Huntington UFSD’s director of athletics. “Sports have historically been a platform for all races to come together to achieve a common goal and we believe that once again, sports will play a tremendous role in furthering social justice.”
The ongoing panel discussions, which will continue through June, are expected to cover a variety of topics, including:
- Preparing student-athletes from historically marginalized groups to take the “high road” when faced with prejudiced statements and actions by officials and opponents (be like Jackie Robinson)
- What is privilege? Many who benefit from it may not be aware of it.
- There are issues unique to Hispanic, Indian (Sikh) and homeless students that may also warrant separate focus
- Bullying – virtual and interpersonal
- Eliminating assumptions that Black and Brown athletes are “supernatural” and don’t need extra support
- Bias for LGBTQ+ students
- Effects of transgender rulings on sports for women/girls
