Evidence backs Ryan Field allegations, but no disciplinary action so far for alleged slurs, says NTHS superintendent

A joint schools’ investigation into alleged hateful conduct last month at Ryan Field supports the allegations of Evanston Township High School band members, according to a statement from New Trier Superintendent Dr. Peter Tragos posted on Monday.

The statement adds that despite visual evidence and more than 40 interviews the investigation has not uncovered enough evidence to discipline any New Trier students “for the reported racist and homophobic slurs” used during a rival football game on Oct. 16 at Northwestern’s Ryan Field.

“I understand that this update might not satisfy those seeking individual accountability,” Tragos wrote. “We share the desire to hold those responsible accountable, and we will continue our investigation. Decisions about an individual’s responsibility must be based on evidence.”

Tragos said that stadium noise and the student section’s similar clothing have “complicated” efforts to identify “who said particular words” as part of the investigation.

The investigation remains open, and Tragos encouraged anyone with information about the alleged hateful abuse to contact New Trier Principal Denise Dubravec at dubraved@newtrier.k12.il.us or 847-784-2200.

Though the schools have not identified those who committed the reported acts, Tragos wrote, “I want to make clear that the investigation supports accounts of hateful language and actions directed toward the Evanston marching band from individuals in the New Trier student section. We take these accounts seriously and recognize the hurt this incident has caused.”

Background

Northwestern’s new Ryan Field was the setting for New Trier and Evanston township high schools’ annual rivalry football game on Oct. 16, a highly anticipated affair that saw more than 25,000 tickets sold.

In the immediate aftermath of the event, news began to spread about New Trier spectators allegedly using racist and homophobic language toward ETHS band members, as well as engaging in physical harassment, such as spitting and shoving, at different points during the evening.

On Oct. 18, the two high schools released a joint statement condemning the reported conduct and pledging to investigate.

In the ensuing days, more ETHS students spoke out with their experiences, sharing more detail of the racist and homophobic verbal abuse. During a New Trier School Board meeting Oct. 19, parents and community members also demanded action from New Trier officials.

New Trier released an update on the investigation on Oct. 23, sharing the administration’s actions since the alleged incidents, They included: making an all-school announcement about “individual and collective responsibility”; holding an all-staff meeting to share information and discuss the alleged behavior about the event; and meeting with student affinity groups, as well as parents and boosters, to help develop a plan of action.

Through these discussions and others, Tragos shared on Monday, Nov. 9, New Trier students and staff reported to school officials that hateful behavior happens in other settings as well.

“Our responsibility to address hateful language extends beyond one game,” Tragos wrote. “…We need to make our expectations clear and give everyone the skills and support to uphold them.”

Tragos said that New Trier has three priorities to address such behavior: “making our values and behavioral expectations explicit,” “establishing consistent responses when those expectations are violated,” and “equipping students and staff to put expectations into practice.”

New Trier staff, according to Tragos’ message, will use development days on Nov. 13, Jan. 21 and Feb. 12 to discuss hateful behavior, including how to recognize it and respond to it.

Tragos also said the school is developing programming for students.

“For students, we are developing learning and leadership opportunities focused on speaking up when others are mistreated, supporting peers, and taking responsibility for our school culture,” the update says.

Tragos also addressed New Trier’s relationship with ETHS, writing that it was “disheartening to learn” that many in the Evanston community were “not surprised” to learn of the allegations against New Trier spectators.

“New Trier must acknowledge and then change the behavior that has contributed to this hurt,” he wrote, adding, “I remain committed to restorative work with Evanston Township High School, guided by listening to those affected and exploring meaningful opportunities for repair. The responsibility for changing behavior and expectations at New Trier rests with us.”

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