2 Racist Incidents Investigated At Framingham State

FRAMINGHAM, MA—Officials at Framingham State University discovered a second racial slur on Sunday morning, written between 10:30 and 11 a.m. in the residence hall, the school reported. The slur was written in the same location as an incident on Friday, and police are investigating a possible connection.

The college's president, Dr. F. Javier Cevallos, issued the following statement:

This behavior is unacceptable and we are going to do everything within our power to determine who is responsible and hold them accountable. It is our highest priority for students to feel welcome, respected and safe on campus.

Now, more than ever, it is important that we come together as a community to condemn this behavior, address your questions and concerns, and show our support for one another. I have instructed that Monday’s All-University Meeting, which was originally scheduled to discuss our 5-Year Strategic Plan in the McCarthy Center, instead be moved to the Dwight Hall Performing Arts Center and used as an open forum to discuss this issue. I strongly encourage everyone to attend the forum, which will begin at 1:30 p.m.

As a community, we will work to prevent these incidents and the divisiveness they breed, so we can move forward and heal.

Framingham State University draws strength from its diversity. We are an institution where individuals of differing cultures, perspectives, and experiences are welcomed, respected, valued and supported. We must not allow those with hate in their hearts to divide us. The best way to stand up to this type of vile behavior is by uniting as a community against it.
To those students who feel targeted by these actions, we are here for you. I encourage you to take advantage of the many resources we have on campus if you need someone to speak with, including the Center for Inclusive Excellence, the Counseling Center, Campus Police, Human Resources, the Campus Clergy and the Dean of Students Office.

I also urge anyone with information regarding these incidents to contact University Police at 508-626-4911. You may send in an anonymous tip by texting 67283 with “FSUTIP” in the body of the message.

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
Javier