Andrew Johnson, being forced to cut off his hair prior to competing in his wrestling match. The emotional video shows the teen visibly shaken as his trainer rushes to cut off his dreadlocks so he could compete. As previously reported Referee Alan Maloney reportedly showed up late for the match, and blindsided Andrew and his coaches with an outrageous ultimatum "cut your hair or forfeit the game."

thePressAC reports the state Division of Civil Rights has opened an investigation and Maloney has been suspended pending the results of the NJSIAA’s investigation.

Dominic A. Speziali, the Johnson family attorney said on their behalf, "The blame here rests primarily with the referee and those that permitted him to continue in that role despite clear evidence of what should be a disqualifying race-related transgression."

Jordan Burroughs, New Jersy Governor
Phil Murphyother pro athletes and celebs like
Chance the Rapper, film director
Ava DuVernay, to civil rights advocates and politicians who believe the ref's conduct was racially motivated.

I will keep you posted on the results of the investigation and any further details concerning this story. Meanwhile, Rosa and Charles Johnson said, “Wrestling has taught Andrew to be resilient in the face of adversity," and credit the sport for getting him through last weeks ordeal. They went on to say, "As we move forward, we are comforted by both the strength of Andrew’s character and the support he’s received from the community. We will do all that we can to make sure that no student-athlete is forced to endure what Andrew experienced.”

Alan Maloney has made no comment on the matter. He was suspended for a year in 2016 after he used a racial slur against a fellow ref. At the agreed to participate in sensitivity training and an alcohol awareness program in order to keep his job. Not long afterward his suspension was overturned. Below view the Johnson families full statement posted on Instagram Christmas Day (Tuesday, December 25, 2018)

 

 

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