The president of the University of Oklahoma has recently responded to a video posted on social media on Friday January 18 that showed a university student wearing blackface and using a racial slur. The video shows two White women students, one filming the other put black paint on her face. The girl with black paint on her face says into the camera “I am a nigger.”
President James L. Gallogly sent a letter to the university community condemning the incident on Sunday January 20.
“We expect all of our students, staff and faculty to respect the diversity and cultural backgrounds of others,” the statement reads. “These differences should not divide us but should strengthen our community and enrich our environment and the OU family. The diversity of our university is paramount and it is our mission to build a community where everyone’s identity is respected and valued.”
President Gallogly concluded by stating, “Together let’s each take the personal responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive community.
After meeting with student leaders, on Monday January 21, President Gallogly committed to efforts to increase diversity of the student body, faculty, and staff. He also stated that the university would review it student code of conduct “to make it as rigorous as possible in addressing inequality and racism.”
The students were identified by the university and initially “offered to apologize in order to reflect their regret.” However, the students now have withdrawn from the university and are no longer enrolled.
It’s unfortunate that they were allowed to “withdraw,” as opposed to being expelled.