Sharp-eyed viewers spotted a potentially racist hand symbol flashed Saturday by a cadet during the nationally televised Army-Navy college football game.

The symbol, noted for its similarity to the well-known “O.K.” hand gesture, has in recent years become affiliated with white supremacy and is used to subtly communicate “white power.” Both academies say they are investigating the matter.

The gesture was seen near the edge of the frame during a shot of Cadets and Midshipmen in the stands for the game on ESPN. Following an outcry from viewers, the Army and Naval academies confirmed they are aware of the incident.

“We are aware and will be looking into it,” said Commander Alana Garas, spokesperson for the U.S. Naval Academy.

“We’re looking into it,” Lt. Colonel Chris Ophardt, a spokesperson for the U.S. Military Academy, said in a statement to the Wall Street Journal. “I don’t know what their intention is.”

The symbol’s status as one of bigotry was originally concocted as a joke by Alt-Right forum member, attempting to turn a broadly-known and benign gesture one associated with hate. Nonetheless, the Anti-Defamation League has now deemed it a legitimate symbol of hate. According to the League, the gesture initially made racist as a hoax by 4Chan members has now been unironically adopted by white supremacists.

The "O.K." symbol has also been used as part of a practical joke trend known as the “Circle Game,” which dates back to the 1980s, wherein people attempt to subtly sneak the gesture into photos. Many differences in execution between this harmless game and the “white power” gesture have been noted.

The Navy Midshipmen celebrate a touchdown in Saturday's game against the Army Black Knights
The Navy Midshipmen celebrate a touchdown against the Army Black Knights. GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / ELSA
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