Football announcer at a high school game equates HBCU students with criminals in comments.

In a regrettable turn of events, a high school football announcer has lost his job following racially insensitive comments made during the Christ Church Episcopal School game against Riverside. The offensive remarks, which were shared in the Southern Miss fan group "Eagle Post," surfaced online on Friday morning before the Jackson State vs. Southern Miss football game.

The account "Rye Stanford," which seemed newly created with only a few public photo posts, was responsible for the post. The account was promptly deleted after facing backlash from fans of both Jackson State and Southern Miss.

The comments, made a day before South Carolina State University travelled to face top-25-ranked South Carolina, compared HBCU students who attend South Carolina State University to criminals. This incident has sparked a wave of condemnation and calls for accountability.

South Carolina State University appreciates the immediate and decisive steps taken by the Christ Church Episcopal School leadership to address the matter. The head of the school, David Padilla, has extended apologies to the South Carolina State University community. Christ Church Episcopal School has also released a statement condemning the comments.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a rich history of producing high-quality athletes, particularly during the mid-20th century. As racial segregation in sports and education limited opportunities for Black athletes at predominantly white institutions, HBCUs became the main centers for nurturing Black athletic talent.

In response to this incident, South Carolina State University has issued a statement, expressing their focus on moving forward in a spirit of understanding. The joint statement, issued by Jackson State and Southern Miss's presidents prior to the game, urged fans to be respectful.

South Carolina State University expects its students, alumni, and institution to be treated with respect. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting respect and understanding in all interactions, particularly in the sports community.

Football announcer at a high school game equates HBCU students with criminals in comments.