Dear Illinois Community,
This past Saturday night, a noose was found hanging inside of an elevator in a University of Illinois residence hall (Allen Hall). We are referring to the incident as it is, blatantly racist and continuation of the tradition of white supremacy and racism at this University. Acts of hate and intolerance like this one, are unacceptable and shall not be taken lightly. We condemn this incident to the highest degree and stands with all students in seeing an extensive and open investigation by the University.
Acts such as this and those who commit it have absolutely no place at this University and anywhere for that matter. These acts move us backwards and are unfortunately becoming the norm in today’s America. We stand in solidarity with Black Students for Revolution and Black United Front and their demands:
The immediate expulsion of student(s) responsible for a period of at least 2 years. The regular public reporting of all racist incidents that are reported to administration and housing. A review of policies related to the discipline of perpetrators of racial hatred, made in conjunction with affected student communities.
If you have been affected by an act of hate or intolerance you can submit an anonymous report at oiir.illinois.edu/help-stop-hate. If you would like to talk to someone further about this incident, you can reach out to the Counseling Center at (217)-333-3704.
In Solidarity,
Connor Josellis – Student Body President
Jack Langen – Student Body Vice President
Black Students for Revolution
Black United Front
Alissa Xiao – Speaker of the Senate
Susan Zhou – Speaker Pro Tempore
Marissa Finley – Director of the Senate
Trayshawn Mitchell – Student Trustee
Ali Mirza – Chief of Staff