A Charlotte civil rights activist is calling for an investigation after a Williams Township substitute teacher allegedly called students “slaves” and “monkeys.”
True Healing Under God (THUG) founder John Barnett was at WTS this morning to meet with the principal and parents of children were reportedly called racial slurs.
Barnett said the substitute has been suspended. Columbus County Schools Spokesman Kelly Jones released a statement about the allegations, but did not confirm whether the individual has been fired or suspended.
“We are aware of the recent allegations raised regarding a substitute teacher and alleged racist comments and take these matters very seriously,” Jones wrote. “At this point of our investigation, no determination has been made as to the claims presented. As the investigation continues, we will provide clarification on these issues as information becomes available.”
Jones emphasized that racist behavior of any kind in the school system is prohibited.
“Such conduct is completely unacceptable and will result in immediate and severe disciplinary action,” he wrote in an email. “The well-being and trust of our students, families, and staff remain our highest priority, and we are deeply committed to treating every child fairly and equitably.”
The system encourages any parents with questions to contact their school principal and the school board, he said.
“We value all concerns and welcome anyone with additional questions or information to contact us directly. We encourage all stakeholders to report concerns directly to the principal or superintendent so we can address them promptly and appropriately. Our commitment to serving our community is unwavering, and Columbus County Schools will ensure that all policies and procedures are always followed.”
Because the investigation is a personnel matter, Jones said the schools have no further comment at this time.
“It’s been said that it takes nine seconds to remember something good in your life and it takes about three seconds to remember something bad,” Barnett said in a press release. “As for these Columbus County students, they won’t forget these three seconds.”
Barnett is no stranger to Columbus County – he previously helped organize protests against former Whiteville Police Officer Aaron Herring after Herring was found not guilty of assaulting a drug suspect. Barnett also attended the administrative hearings to remove Jody Green as sheriff, and called for both Herring and Green to lose their badges.
Barnett also led protests in Charlotte after a man was shot and killed by police there in 2016. A protestor was shot and killed after a prayer vigil for the victim in that case. Barnett and several attorneys affiliated represent civil rights cases in 15 states and Washington, D.C.
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