N.J. Black student plans to sue over racially charged wrestling photo

The family of a Black student at Paulsboro High School plans to sue over a racially charged wrestling photo of students posing with a dummy.

The photo, which came to light last month, displays seven white Phillipsburg wrestling gear posing with a Black dummy, wearing a Paulsboro High School T-shirt, hanging from a noose.

One of the teenagers held a paddle and two others had their sweatshirt hoods shaped into points.

The photo drew public attention with many citing the photo displayed racial overtones. The seven students in the photo have since apologize and were subsequently punished for the picture.

As a result, they were not permitted to compete in the state tournament.

A lawyer for the Black student said notices of the intent to sue had been sent to the school district and the students in the picture because the client and his family felt “clearly threatened and intimidated by the photo and the action of the students.”

Phillipsburg and Paulsboro are longtime rivals.