SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Syracuse University students are speaking out about the investigations launched into the school’s recent episode of racist vandalism.
The school launched their investigation into the incident, which occurred inside two bathrooms within the same residence hall, Thursday between both the Department of Public Safety and the Syracuse Police Department.
Many students, including SU sophomore James Goudie, were distressed with how little they felt the university was doing to address the situation.
“It seems from their handling of the issue they’re afraid of dialogue about it and about just facing the blunt truth about the issue,” Goudie said. “And I think that is that we are not as inclusive and diverse as the campus wants to appear to people.”
Students do seem optimistic, though, about Governor Andrew Cuomo’s announcement yesterday that the State Police Hate Crimes Task Force will also be investigating the incident.
Nicole Miller, a sophomore special education major, said she views the state’s investigation as a positive measure on top of the university’s own efforts.
“I think that it’s definitely needed. I think that this was a lot, a little bit more so than any old trashing of a dorm bathroom,” she said.
In addition to the state’s investigation, many students were also supportive of how much the community has done since the incident’s discovery.
“The administration has been lacking, but the campus community itself and a lot of activist groups have been really responsive about getting the word out,” Goudie said.
Sophomore Cesar Romero said he takes pride in his school’s community.
“I feel like this university is someplace that people should be proud to be of[sic],” he said. “I’m a proud student but when this occurs, it’s kinda sad to see that there’s so much hate.”
Part of the community’s efforts include those of the SU Residence Hall Association, who will be holding an open forum to discuss the incident Tuesday at 8 p.m.
