Defending Fairness: Why We Stand with Alaila Everett

In the world of competitive athletics, young athletes dedicate years to their craft, pushing themselves to achieve excellence. Yet, when an incident occurs within the heat of competition, how we respond as a community defines our values. Today, the Close-Knit Communities Coalition (CKCC) stands firmly in support of Alaila Everett, a standout track athlete from I.C. Norcom High School, who is facing an unprecedented and unjust criminal charge following a split-second moment in competition.

Alaila Everett during a support rally held by the community

The Incident and Overreaction

During the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Indoor Track State Championships, Alaila was involved in a baton exchange incident in the 4x200 meter relay. While unfortunate, contact in races—especially in relays—is not uncommon. Despite her immediate assurance that it was not intentional, the response has been swift and severe, escalating beyond the bounds of reason. In a climate where young athletes should be nurtured and guided, it is alarming to see a minor subjected to criminal proceedings for what should have remained a matter for sports regulators and school officials.

A Troubling Double Standard

This situation is yet another example of the double standards faced by Black women and girls in every aspect of life. In high-contact sports like football, illegal hits that cause serious injuries often result in penalties or suspensions—but rarely criminal charges. The fact that Alaila, a young Black female athlete, is being criminalized for an in-game occurrence is emblematic of a broader issue: Black women and girls are held to impossible standards, facing harsher consequences than their peers.

This societal tendency, often referred to as "misogynoir," is a deeply rooted problem that affects Black women in workplaces, classrooms, and now—on the track. Instead of being afforded the grace and understanding given to so many other young athletes, Alaila is being made an example of, reinforcing the notion that Black girls must always strive for perfection or face undue punishment.

The Impact on Young Athletes

What message does this send to student-athletes across the country? That any minor misstep—whether accidental or not—could lead to life-altering consequences? That instead of learning, growing, and being coached through mistakes, young athletes of color must fear criminalization? This is not just about Alaila; it is about ensuring that no other young girl has to face a similar ordeal in the future.

Calling for Justice and Support

CKCC calls on school administrators, athletic regulators, and community leaders to intervene and correct this overreach. Alaila should be in a supportive environment where she can continue to train, compete, and thrive—not defending herself in a legal battle over an incident that should have been handled within the bounds of sportsmanship.

We encourage community members to speak out, educate others on the realities of racial and gender biases in sports, and stand beside Alaila in the pursuit of justice. If we allow this to happen without protest, we risk setting a precedent that threatens the futures of young athletes everywhere.

Alaila Everett is more than this moment. She is a dedicated athlete, a student, and a young woman with a bright future ahead. We will not stand by while that future is put at risk. CKCC remains committed to fighting for fairness, equity, and the protection of all our youth.

Join us in supporting Alaila Everett. Share this message, advocate for her, and demand a fair resolution. Our young athletes deserve better.