In Long Beach, California, the family of a young Black fifth-grade girl is speaking out after she received a toy monkey, plastic toilet, and fake poop as a prize for a school fundraising activity.
Genesis Thomas, a student at Mann Elementary School, raised $160 for the school fundraiser. In return, her teacher gave her the controversial gift, which her great-uncle Craig Polk says is deeply offensive and inappropriate.
Concerns About Racial Sensitivity
Speaking to FOX 11, Polk said the gift was hurtful, especially because of the racist history of African Americans being compared to monkeys.
“For her to receive a monkey… it’s unacceptable, just unacceptable,” he said.
The family is now demanding:
- A formal apology
- Sensitivity training for the school’s staff
The school is located in Belmont Heights, a wealthy part of Long Beach, where only about 4% of the population is Black. It is unclear whether Genesis was the only child to receive that specific toy or if she was specifically targeted.
Interestingly, Genesis herself was reportedly not bothered by the gift. But her family believes the matter is serious and deserves attention.
School and District Respond
The Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) responded with a statement, saying that the toy was one of several available prizes for students who raised money. They added that families had been informed in advance about the prize options.
A district spokesperson said:
“Multiple students received this prize as part of their fundraising achievements. While our intention was to offer lighthearted and fun rewards, we now recognize that this particular item was not suitable in a school environment.”
The district is now:
- Reviewing the prize selection process
- Working to ensure that future prizes reflect school values and promote a positive, respectful environment
The statement also included an apology:
“There was no intention to cause harm or offense. We sincerely apologize for any hurt or frustration this situation may have caused to our students, families, and the broader school community.”
Family Still Waiting for a Personal Response
Despite reaching out to the school principal twice, the family says they have not yet received a direct response. The incident has brought attention to the need for more racial awareness and cultural sensitivity in schools—especially in diverse communities.