Thursday, March 28, 2024

Noose Found Hanging from Tree at Duke University

*A noose was found hanging from a tree near the student union at Duke University on Wednesday.

The Washington Post reports that the school has been mired in racial tensions in recent days after a black student reported being taunted by a white student with a racist chant about the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and lynching.

Social media was rife with disgust Wednesday morning — and also some skepticism that the act could’ve been related to April Fool’s Day or Final Four rivalries.

The noose was found about 2 a.m. in the Bryan Center Plaza, in the shadow of the school’s iconic chapel.

Larry Moneta, Duke’s vice president for student affairs, sent an e-mail to students Wednesday morning:

“To whomever committed this hateful and stupid act, I just want to say that if your intent was to create fear, it will have the opposite effect. Today, fear will be among the reactions students, and especially, students of color, will have. Be assured that the Duke community will provide all the support necessary to help us all get through this. In time, each of these cowardly acts of bias and hatred will strengthen our resolve to love and support each other.

“Appropriate investigations are underway and if we’re able to identify anyone responsible for committing this act of intimidation, they will be held fully accountable.”

A forum will be held at 5 p.m. on the steps of Duke Chapel to talk about the incident. Richard Brodhead, president of the university, and Provost Sally Kornbluth will speak, along with faculty and student leaders.

A photo of the noose, apparently made of yellow rope and hanging near outdoor tables and chairs, was posted on the tumblr site of the group People of Color Caucus, with this statement

“To all black students, staff, faculty, and/or Durhamites on campus and in the area: Please take care of yourselves and each other. This campus is not a safe space, and has proven beyond any doubt that it is a hostile environment for any and all black people.”

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