Dewitt student alleges classmate made racist comments after painting face black

DEWITT, Ark. – A Dewitt High School student, Ayona Tuner says a classmate of hers painted his face black and allegedly made racist remarks.

“I was very upset like it got to the point where I was shaking,” Turner said.

According to Dewit School District, this incident took place on Friday, September 20.

In a statement, Superintended Nick Hall said “On Friday, September 20th, students participated in a spirit day for the football game. ‘Hunt the owls’ was the theme in which a student wore camo clothing and face paint as part of the spirit day activities.”

“He walked up to me and said we twins today, and we look alike,” Turner said.

Turner says after this happened, she quickly texted her mother, Anna Brown.

“We’re probably gone end up moving because this is just too much,” Brown said after this incident.

Brown says that she went to the school about the issue and was told the student would receive punishment.

According to Ayona, the student only received one day of detention hall for what she felt was racial bullying.

“Even for myself, if I say something racist to somebody, I would understand the consequences I’d have to get,” Turner said.

According to the Dewitt Student Handbook, the punishment for bullying varies from reprimand to expulsion.

Brown feels racial bullying deserves discipline that will make a statement.

“Hopefully something will change,” Brown said, who added she was bullied when she attended Dewitt High School.

Turner says from her experience, hearing a racist comment at DHS is common but this is the first time it’s ever been directed at her.

“I don’t like being called names because I am Black, or a joke being made about me because I’m black. It hurts my feelings.”

Besides the statement from Superintended Hall, he didn’t offer any further comment on the matter.

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