Ole Miss Students Respond to Racial Gestures by Expelled Fraternity Member
OXFORD, Miss. – In an astonishing incident on campus, students from Ole Miss University expressed their profound shock and disappointment after witnessing an act of racial insult by a now-expelled member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity against an African American protester.
Origins of the Incident
The incident occurred last Thursday, during a peaceful protest against Israel’s war in Gaza. The protest was reportedly interrupted by counter-protestors which escalated to the expulsion of a Phi Delta Theta member making racist monkey noises and gestures at a black woman who was recording the incident. The still unidentified student has now gained national attention for his appalling behavior.
Student Reactions
Students from the University were left in a state of shock and disbelief after witnessing the disrespect that unfolded on campus. One of the students present at the protest, Fatima Wansley, shared her sentiment saying, “I’m black and Muslim, and I felt attacked on all levels of my identity. I started crying. It was so overwhelming. I was just blessed that my mentor was out there and didn’t let me faint in front of that.”
Call for Learning and Betterment
Many students believe that this incident should serve as a lesson for not only the expelled student but the entire student body as well. As Hugh Johnson, an Ole Miss student, stated, “I’m opposed to any type of obscene gesture, whatever that might be. I think it’s kind of ridiculous. You find these days that common sense has gone out of the window.”
Other students, like Jakota White, believe in the importance of disciplinary actions. He stated, “Discipline is one thing but I think actually taking in that discipline and being receptive to it, and learning from it is another. So I think that’s going to be up to him at the end of the day.”
Ongoing ‘Student conduct’ Investigation
In response to the incident, the University’s Chancellor, Glenn Boyce, communicated that the university leaders are now conducting a ‘Student Conduct Investigation.’ More cases might surface as this investigation progresses.
While it is a troubling incident, it becomes a stark reminder of the continuous struggle against racial bias and discrimination. The incident showcases the importance of promoting an environment of respect, acceptance, and mutual understanding not just on campus, but on a broader societal level.
