The University of Guelph has announced it’s looking into a recent pub night where students used racist, antisemitic, anti-Black, and homophobic language, along with “the appearance of hate symbols.”
The Student Federation of the Ontario Agricultural College shared on Facebook that the event in question was an Aggie Pub night. The theme was graffiti night, where attendees wore white shirts for others to paint on.
“As a student community, we all share responsibility for upholding respect, accountability, and inclusion. We encourage students to speak up, support one another, and choose empathy in their actions,” the student federation said.
“Discrimination and hate in any form have no place in the [Ontario Agricultural College]. They harm individuals and weaken the sense of safety and belonging that every student deserves. We stand with those impacted and fully support efforts to address these incidents.”
A comment on the statement posted by the federation on Instagram mentioned swastikas were painted on some shirts.
The federation indicated that the university is following its protocols for “hate or bias-motivated incidents” while working “to ensure that appropriate actions are taken.”
The University of Guelph sent an email to staff, faculty, and students stating they’re investigating “a deeply troubling” incident that occurred on campus.
“Let us be absolutely clear, hate will not be tolerated at the University of Guelph,” the email emphasized.
In a statement to , the university noted that while they investigate this matter, similar future events have been put on hold.
“Anyone found to have violated university policies will be subject to action under the student rights and responsibilities policy,” read their statement.
“We are engaging student leaders and campus partners to reinforce expectations and strengthen education around equity, inclusion, and respectful community conduct.”
The statement also mentioned that students affected by this event can seek support through various resources available on campus.
The Guelph Police Service confirmed they are looking into this matter as well.
“We are actively working with and liaising with the University of Guelph as part of the ongoing investigation,” Const. Mason Melitzer stated.
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