Prairie State Wire

A new Board of Director’s Policy focused on addressing hate speech and harassment has been implemented by the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) for this fall.

This policy strives to address anyone involved in hate speech or harassment that occurs during a contest or meet.

“This is an important topic to our Board of Directors, our staff, and our member schools,” IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said. “It feels especially topical given some of the recent events in our country. Hate speech is learned, it is not engrained. We feel like by addressing it at its core and providing education, we can help enlighten our coaches and athletes to be better citizens."

Hate speech is not viewed as a huge problem in schools, but a few instances have been noticed according to Anderson. To him, students deserve to be educated on matters.

“Our mission was to help spread this message across Illinois that all student-athletes and coaches know they are protected and can compete without fear, intimidation or harassment,” said Evanston Township High School Athletic Director Chris Livatino, who noted there has been a decline in hate speech.

In instances where hate speech is heard or reported to game officials, it will be discussed by coaches and players to ensure the allegations can be verified. If there is verification, the coach or player will be removed from the game and suspended for the next game. If there is no verification, only a warning will be issued. In addition, game administration will be notified.

“I am thankful to see the addition of this policy, as it will positively impact the entire IHSA membership,” Glenbard East High School Athletic Director D’Wayne Bates said. “In our history and current social unrest, unfortunately hate speech is happening. This policy allows a consistency in protocol to appropriately deal with hate speech. There are several conferences, including the Central Suburban and UpState Eight conferences, that have adopted a hate speech policy, and it is my hope that all IHSA members schools and conferences will do the same. It is our duty to protect our student-athletes, coaches, and community members from hate speech, and the IHSA has afforded us this opportunity to steward this responsibility."