An investigation is underway after two separate racist incidents happened during virtual Black History events at Slippery Rock University this month.
According to a report in the student newspaper The Rocket, an event hosted last night on Zoom focusing on Black athletes was interrupted by racist audio and video. The report indicates the guests and panelists were “subjected to a song featuring violent, racial slurs” and a graphic video.
This comes after an incident earlier this month during a virtual poetry reading of prominent Black poets where Zoom-bombers made racist and derogatory comments.
SRU President Dr. Bill Behre said in an email to students that situations like this “cut deeply” and asks that people “acknowledge the harm done to Black members of the community.”
Behre also added that as the University strives to be an inclusive institution.
“I’ve said this before but it bears repeating, each day we all play a critical role to inspire and foster a sense of belonging for all people, particularly African Americans and other members of marginalized and intersecting communities, as we, together, celebrate their cultures and experiences,” Behre said in an email. “We must remain aware of the significance of our actions and how they influence those around us. I encourage you to engage with and learn about the lived experiences of all members of our campus community.”
Behre said that if those responsible are found out to be Slippery Rock students, they will face full disciplinary sanctions.
