By: Daniel Hasko
The Whitworth University women’s soccer team was without five players for their opening match as they kicked off their season last Wednesday night. These five players were forced to miss the match due to a suspension issued by the university regarding the picture of the five of them using blackface makeup and afro wigs in an attempt to look like the “Jackson 5” in a costume bowling event with other members of the team.
What was thought to be a harmless portrayal of one of America’s most beloved pop groups in history turned out to be the spark of heated racial controversy.
The history of blackface is the underlying cause for the tension surrounding this story; an issue the five players involved claimed to be unaware of. Blackface dates back to the early 1800’s, and was used by white performers who would utilize burnt cork as a way to darken their skin. After altering their appearance, the performers would entertain communities by putting on shows that mocked colored people and their culture.
These extremely racist and insulting shows are precisely why these five girls will not take the field in their home opener, but many people still wonder if these suspensions were rightfully warranted.
Some would agree, and others would disagree. Many teenagers are unaware of just the negative history of blackface makeup . Even among people that are aware of it, many find this photograph to be a far cry from an attack on race.
The small Christian college in Spokane, Washington has refused to lift the suspensions of the five players. If there was concern that the players had not been aware of the history of blackface, everyone can rest assured that they most certainly do now.
