NEWARK, NJ—Community and school board members expressed outrage after a promotional video featuring women twerking was filmed in the gym of West Side High School in Newark. The video, intended for a celebrity basketball tournament titled ‘Nuttin’ But Azz,’ has led to the event’s cancellation and an immediate school district investigation.
“There were more than basketballs bouncing in that gym,” said one irate board member.
Board member Daniel Gonzalez condemned the association of such content with any educational institution, particularly distressed by the implications it might have on the school’s reputation. “I am appalled that a video of that sort was associated with that school or any of our schools,” Gonzalez stated during a recent board meeting.
Crystal Williams, another board member, demanded clarity on how the filming was authorized, who was present, and whether any minors were on-site during the incident. The controversy has prompted a swift response from the school’s administration, with Superintendent Roger León and Board President Hasani Council confirming that an investigation is underway, expecting results by the next board meeting on August 25.
Board Co-Vice President Allison James-Frison, representing the West Ward, shared her disgust at the meeting, held at Sussex Avenue Elementary School. “As the only West Ward board member on this dais, I was disgusted,” she declared.
The event, which had been scheduled for July 21, was promoted by music manager Big Fendi, known for discovering Nicki Minaj. Following the video’s circulation on social media, school officials have reassured the public that the event was never sanctioned as a district or school-related activity, with promises of appropriate disciplinary actions pending the investigation’s findings.
