College Student Accused of Scratching Racial Slur on Peer’s Body

At Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, two students have faced suspension from the swim team following a disturbing incident involving a racial slur. Officials confirmed that a report was made indicating that a racial slur had been scratched onto a student’s body, utilizing a plastic or ceramic tool.

In a statement from the college, the administration described the report as “deeply concerning.” They also noted that this serious claim is currently being investigated through the student conduct process. As part of the ongoing inquiry, the students involved have been barred from swim team activities.

Due to privacy laws and the nature of the investigation, the college has opted not to disclose additional details surrounding the incident. However, the family of the targeted student has shared their perspective with the campus newspaper, The Gettysburgian, claiming the incident to be a blatant hate crime.

The family stated that their son was attacked by someone he had trusted, who allegedly used a box cutter to carve the N-word onto his chest. They emphasized that their son is a person of color and was the only one in attendance at the gathering where the incident occurred.

The incident reportedly took place during an informal event at an on-campus residence, as indicated by the college president, Robert Iuliano. Upperclassmen from the swim team were the first to report the event. According to the family, the hate crime occurred on September 6.

The family maintained that their son was quickly removed from the swim team, stating he was interviewed by coaching staff two days post-incident and was “summarily dismissed” rather than suspended. They have chosen not to publicly name the alleged perpetrator.

The specific details of how the racial slur was scratched onto the student’s body have not been clarified by either the administration or the family in their statements. President Iuliano expressed profound distress over the incident, particularly considering its impact on marginalized communities at the college, stressing the importance of creating an inclusive environment.

“No matter the relationship, and no matter the motivation, there is no place on this campus for words or actions that demean, degrade, or marginalize based on one’s identity and history,” he remarked. Iuliano cautioned against speculation regarding the situation, suggesting that the community avoid making assumptions based on incomplete information.

In a separate statement, the city’s police chief, Robert Glenny Jr., shared that he reached out to the college after news reports of the incident surfaced. He conveyed that the victim had chosen to address the matter through the college’s internal processes, even after officials encouraged him to report it to the police.

This case highlights ongoing conversations about racial dynamics within educational settings and the importance of creating safe environments for all students. The gravity of the situation underscores the necessity for institutions to confront instances of hate and discrimination actively, helping foster a culture of inclusion and respect.

As the investigation unfolds, the college community and the surrounding area are left grappling with the implications of this incident. The family’s commitment to advocating for their son’s rights may spark further discussions about accountability and support systems for students facing similar challenges.

The broader dialogue surrounding this event serves as a reminder of the critical work still needed to address systemic issues of racism and to cultivate an environment where every individual feels safe and valued.

Source: CBS News