Racist LeBron James Monkey Poster Displayed at New Hartford Festival of the Arts: Superintendent Investigating Incident

The New Hartford Festival of the Arts took a disturbing turn when an advertisement for a fake cereal called “Monkey Premium” was displayed, featuring a picture of NBA superstar LeBron James alongside the tagline “Eat Monkeys, Jump Like Monkeys!” The fictional product promised to make consumers jump higher for a few hours after consumption, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

This racist display shocked Black residents of the New Hartford Central School District in upstate New York, highlighting the ongoing struggle against discrimination in America. The fact that such blatantly offensive artwork made it through the school’s approval process raises questions about oversight and accountability.

Superintendent of Schools Cosimo Tangorra Jr. addressed the controversy, expressing disappointment that the racist artwork was not only created but also allowed to be displayed. The student responsible for the piece remains unidentified, and it is unclear if any disciplinary action was taken.

The incident serves as a teachable moment for the district, prompting discussions about racism, accountability, and the need for better oversight in school art programs. However, for Black students and families in the community, the incident raises concerns about their safety and well-being in a school environment where offensive imagery can go unchecked.

As the district grapples with the fallout from this incident, it is essential to address the underlying issues of racism and discrimination to ensure a more inclusive and respectful environment for all students.