Feb. 25 UPDATE:
The Lehigh Black Student Union posted on their Instagram a statement in response to the racist image posted on YikYak involving a drawing of George Floyd written by a Lehigh student.
“This comment, which makes fun of Floyd’s death, directly contradicts the principles, values, and commitment that Lehigh has repeatedly claimed to uphold,” the statement said.
The Black Student Union addressed that this isn’t an isolated event, and that there have been multiple racist and discriminatory incidents on campus, specifically from members of Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council.
The Black Student Union acknowledged a statement issued by Lehigh University’s Council for Equity and Community, which stated the council would discipline those who were involved. However, the union said they will continue to push back against racism and injustices.
The statement reiterated the Black Student Union’s dedication to advocating and supporting Lehigh’s community of color.
Original Reporting:
According to an email from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, all Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic fraternity and sorority social events have been suspended for an undetermined time.
This suspension comes after a racist image was deliberately drawn on the side of a BORG containing alcohol and circulated on Yik Yak. The incident has been referred to the university for investigation.
The email stated the office isn’t only disappointed because of the harm caused, but because our campus is better than that.
“Our community has consistently stated that belonging and respect matter here,” the email said. “Moments like this test whether those values are aspirational words or lived commitments.”
For students impacted, specifically Black students and students of color, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life encouraged them to seek support from University Counseling and Psychological Services, the Office of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging, Student Affairs and the Chaplain’s Office.
Any additional information can be reported through the Equal Opportunity Compliance Coordinator or the Office of Student Conduct and Community Expectations.
According to the email, updates will continue to be communicated from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
This is a developing story. Please check back for more updates.
1 Comment
So what was the image that was drawn? Not even a broad-strokes description in this article? You say it’s a racist image, but without any information, we’re left to wonder if it really is.
Not trying to be difficult, I genuinely want to know. Not good journalism to just leave out the main detail of a story about your community.
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