VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The families of two students who were targets of racial harassment at Kempsville High School are speaking publicly, emphasizing their focus on using the incident to bring about positive change in Virginia Beach city schools.
In a statement released late Thursday by the Hampton Roads Black Caucus, the families said they wanted to address the "racial harassment, bullying, hate speech, and ongoing taunting" that their sons have had to deal with during their time on Kempsville High's varsity baseball team.
They say multiple members of the team have been found guilty by the school district of racist actions and misconduct, including both verbal and physical aggression. However, they are choosing not to pursue legal action against the students responsible or the school.
Instead, the families say they "are focused on fostering a collaborative relationship with the Virginia Beach Public School Division to drive positive change in the areas of inclusion and diversity."
"Our ultimate goal is to move forward, building a united community that values diversity and camaraderie, both in sports and within the classroom."
This comes after the school district forced the Kempsville varsity baseball team to forfeit their season earlier this month.
RELATED: VB Schools superintendent addresses racism, hate speech found in Kempsville HS baseball program
Virginia Beach City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Don Robertson told 13News Now that the district began investigating after a parent brought attention to the issue.
"It is not something we tolerate in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. We work really hard to create an inclusive environment where all of our students feel welcome and they have a place in the school setting, programming, athletics, et cetera," said Dr. Robertson.
"To understand this had occurred over more than a year is just something that was devastating. As a former coach, former principal and former teacher in the division, it made me angry."