The University of Guelph has announced that 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 this incident took place during an Aggie Pub night themed as graffiti night, where students 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 that swastikas were drawn on some of the shirts.
The federation indicated that the university is following its protocols regarding “hate or bias-motivated incidents” and that the Ontario Agricultural College is 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” event on campus.
“Let us be absolutely clear, hate will not be tolerated at the University of Guelph,” the email said.
In a statement to , the university noted that while investigations are ongoing, 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,” the statement said.
“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 access support services through various resources available on campus.
The Guelph Police Service has confirmed they are investigating as well.
“We are actively working with and liaising with the University of Guelph as part of the ongoing investigation,” Const. Mason Melitzer said.
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