During an MLB game on Sunday night, a Little League World Series player’s head was coated in cotton, and while Little League officials recognized it “could be perceived as racially insensitive,” they’ve since been told there was “no ill-intent” behind the behavior.
The incident occurred in the 8th inning of the Red Sox vs. Orioles Little League Classic game in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. When several white members of the Davenport, Iowa, Little League crew took material from freebie toys and positioned it on the head of a Black member of the team.
kids placing cotton balls on a black kid's head during the little league world series. 😳 pic.twitter.com/01fj5rtRYP
— RiichStoneMedia (@RiichStoneMedia) August 23, 2022
Many people on social media were enraged by the images on the ESPN broadcast, especially since the Black player did not seem to be having a good laugh at all.
However, LLWS representatives stated in a statement issued on Monday that after talking with the Black child’s mother and coaching staff, they were assured “that there was no ill-intent behind the action shown during the broadcast.”
“After speaking with the team,” officials said, “as well as reviewing photos, multiple players on the Midwest Region team were taking part in this while enjoying the game.”
“As only one player appeared on the broadcast, Little League International understands that the actions shown could be perceived as racially insensitive.”
The Davenport team will not play again until Tuesday. It is currently three victories away from advancing to the World Series finals in the United States bracket.
