The White House Condemns Racist Taunts at University of Mississippi
The White House has spoken out against the actions of counterprotesters at the University of Mississippi, following the release of videos showing a group of white male students taunting and jeering at a female Black student during a pro-Palestinian protest on campus.
In the disturbing video clips, the men can be seen directing derogatory, racist, and profane remarks at the Black student, with one individual even making monkey gestures towards her. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the first Black woman to hold the position, described the behavior as “undignified and racist, period” during a press briefing on Tuesday.
The university has launched a conduct investigation into at least one student involved in the incident, with Chancellor Glenn F. Boyce stating that the statements made were “offensive, hurtful, and unacceptable.” The Phi Delta Theta fraternity also took action, removing one member from its ranks and denouncing the “racist actions” displayed in the video.
While some online celebrated the counterprotesters for singing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the videos of the taunts have been met with widespread condemnation. Representative Mike Collins of Georgia initially praised the actions in a social media post but later clarified that any mistreatment based on race should be punished appropriately.
The incident at the University of Mississippi serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of racism and discrimination in society, prompting calls for accountability and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment on campus.
