UW removes dance coach, invites black dancers to return to the squad

The University of Washington Athletic Department issued a statement Tuesday that two dancers who had been cut from next year’s team would be invited back and there would be a leadership change in the UW dance program.

This announcement comes after two of the 14 dancers from last year’s squad, who were the only two women of color, were not selected to return next year.

The Seattle Times reports that one of the coaches of the dance team, Jordan French, has been removed from her position.

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The department’s statement also said it will “develop methods of ensuring that future team selection processes include a number of factors,” taking into account a dancer’s years of service on the team, diversity, and a commitment to the program.

Jennifer Cohen, the director of UW Athletics, added to the statement from the department Tuesday and apologized for the hurt this situation may have caused for those involved.

“The UW spirit programs are long-standing, valued traditions at Washington, and we believe these changes will allow our spirit programs to best serve our campus community moving forward as a prized part of the UW tradition,” Cohen said. “I apologize for the hurt that this situation has caused for the students involved and I’m confident that these changes will allow us to best serve our students and the campus we represent as we collectively work to get better.”

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— UW Cheer (@UW_Spirit) June 9, 2020