Racist graffiti discovered in a bathroom dorm has sparked an investigation by campus police at Framingham State University, according to the Boston Globe.
The graffiti was discovered on Friday morning just after 10 a.m. in a third floor women’s bathroom in Horace Mann Hall. Written in marker, the racist comments where geared towards African Americans, Framingham State University spokesman Dan Magazu said in a phone interview with the Globe. The racist graffiti did not include the “n-word.”
Following the discovery, campus officials released the following message:
“Earlier today, University Police received a report of racial bias-related graffiti written in the stall of a women’s bathroom in Horace Mann Hall.”
“Upon receiving the report, police immediately launched an investigation, which has so far included interviews with the reporting parties and ongoing review of camera footage in the area. Members of the University’s Bias Education Response Team will also be assembled.”
“Framingham State is a diverse community that has zero tolerance for racism of any kind. We recognize that we draw strength from diversity and inclusion and that without it, our learning community would be severely diminished.”
“Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact University Police at 508-626-4911. If you wish to remain anonymous, please use the anonymous tip line by texting to 67283, and in the beginning of your message typing “FSUTIP” followed by a space and then your message.”
Framingham State University zero tolerance policy
Campus police have reviewed camera footage from the area and believe the vandalism was committed sometime between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Friday morning.
As part of their investigation, interviews are currently being conducted, per WCVB.
“We’re hopeful they have some leads and something to go on,” said Magazu.
“Obviously, the university has zero tolerance for racism of any kind,” Magazu said. “We have an extremely diverse community … and we draw strength from diversity.”
Prior incidents at Framingham State University
This latest discovery comes after several incidents that were reported in 2017 that shook the Framingham State University campus.
A racial slur was found written on a flyer for the Black Student Union. The flyer was found taped to a student’s dorm room door, prompting an investigation.
In that same year, racist notes where anonymously slipped under student’s doors.
Both the FBI and State Police were called in to help investigate those incidents, according to the Globe.
