CMU administrators address racist message written outside student's dorm
In an email letter to the Central Michigan University community, President Bob Davies and other campus leaders said a "racist remark" was written outside a student's dorm room on their message board on Sept. 28.
"This act targeted a Woman of Color and involved language that carries storied, historical nuances that are still lived out today," the email said.
According to the email, "offices and teams across campus" are investigating the incident. The student targeted by the message and their residence hall were not named in the email.
The email encouraged anyone experiencing similar misconduct to file a report with the Office of Student Conduct.
"We want each of the students impacted to know this: We are proud to have you as members of our campus community," the email said. "This is your home, you belong here and you are welcome here. This is true for each and every student, faculty and staff member.
"Racist, hateful speech has no place on our campus, and our community will not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form."
The Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Office of Civil Rights and Institutional Equity are starting a Campus Climate Resource Team for "addressing incidents," the email said. On Oct. 4, CMU will also be sending out a campus climate survey, according to the letter.
Along with Davies, the email letter was signed by Provost Nancy Mathews, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Shawna Patterson-Stephens and Vice President for Student Affairs Reneé Watson.
Read the full email below:
