An Asian American sixth grader in Syosset, NY was allegedly attacked by students who blamed him for COVID-19 and demanded that he go back to his “own country” last week.
Recess bullies: The incident reportedly occurred during recess at South Woods Middle School on May 6, reported News 12.
- In a Facebook post, the student’s mother claimed that her son was told “Go back to your country, Asian!” after being pushed and punched by another student.
- Other students allegedly shouted “Covid Starter” and “White lives matter, too.”
- The latest data from the New York State Department of Education shows that 52% of students in the Syosset Central School District are white, while 40% are Asian.
Investigation launched: School district superintendent Thomas Rogers said that interviews have been conducted with more than two dozen individuals, according to WABC.
- School officials learned that there have been other prior incidents involving students making biased statements at the middle school.
- During a school board meeting on Monday, parents reportedly spoke for around two hours to voice their worries regarding the incidents.
- Rogers said the Nassau County Office of Asian-American Affairs will work with the school district for the rest of the investigation.
The incidents remind the Syosset community of five students arrested in 2017 for spray-painting anti-Semitic messages and symbols at Syosset High School.
According to News 12, Nassau police said that the Asian student’s parents do not intend to press charges.
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