By Ella Prieto, Managing Editor
On Tuesday, Gettysburg College’s Black Student Union and Gettysburg African Student Association released a joint statement on Instagram regarding the racial slur cut into a student.
“We stand in full solidarity with those who have been impacted and offer our deepest support as we navigate this terrible situation. We are disgusted by this act of violence, and we are disappointed in the way the school has handled the situation thus far,” said the statement.
They stated that while the College has taken some steps, it has not been enough to address the severity of the crime done. Furthermore, they call for “greater transparency and accountability from the administration to ensure that justice is served.”
The organizations also commended the upperclassmen on the swim team who reported the incident and conveyed their understanding that it does not reflect their views. However, they expressed that the nature of the attack worries them as it suggests “something deliberate and more troubling.” Additionally, the lack of clear communication has only caused more questions, and once again they called for transparency from the College.
“If the appropriate steps are not taken to ensure transparency, the Black Student Union and Gettysburg African Student Association are prepared to act and demand change. We are committed to doing what is necessary to make sure this issue is not swept under the rug and that the safety and wellbeing of Black students are prioritized,” read the statement.
BSU and GASA invited the entire Gettysburg community to a discussion regarding this incident. On Wednesday, GASA will address it during their regularly scheduled meeting briefly. Then, on Thursday, both organizations said they will host an in-depth conversation.
The statement concluded with GASA and BSU expressing their solidarity with the victim and his family. They demanded the administration to demonstrate “swift and decisive action” to hold those responsible accountable so that a safe and inclusive environment can be available for everyone.
“Our community must come together to reject racism and bigotry in all its forms, and we will continue to fight for justice until real change is made.”
