UMD Students Speak Against Racism

In UMD's Kirby Lounge on Monday night, it was standing room only. About 200 students, faculty and community members showed up to a public forum known as, 'Spat Out' forum. It's hosted by Students Promoting Awareness Through Teaching (SPAT)

Although Student Rep. Daniel Oyinloye said turnout at these events have always been strong-- he described turnout Monday as record-breaking. Several other students who spoke mentioned that the forum drew five times as many students as what is typical
An incident that happened a few weeks ago on Facebook took center stage during the forum. Two white students allegedly made racist comments on their Facebook walls about one of their black peers. At the time of the alleged incident, they were in the Oakland Apartments-- a University building.

"I want us to think about our friends who we allow to say stupid jokes that aren't funny," said one student. "That's what ultimately lead to the incident at the Oakland Apartments," she said. Many students challenged their peers to step in before hateful comments escalate.

"I feel heart broken and I feel upset," said one student.

Among students, the incident fueled anger, emotion, and an increased desire for change.

"I was hurt as a person, that another person would hurt someone like that. It hurt me and I was destroyed over it," said another student.

Many said that they see racism everyday on campus, and throughout the entire Duluth community. They questioned why it took so long for others to take a stand.

"I'm glad everybody's rallied up and mad about this and wants to make change on this campus," said one of the students. "But recognize you're just adding on to changes that have been trying to be made forever."

Chancellor Kathryn Martin was not at the forum. A spokesperson for UMD told Eyewitness News that Martin had a prior commitment.

Vice Chancellor Vincent Magnuson stood up and spoke to students. He acknowledged that racism exists on campus and pledged to everyone, that administration is listening and will take action

"It won't happen overnight, and not by graduation. But with your help, some things can change," Magnuson said. "We're trying to work toward some solutions."

Next Monday, Students Coalition Against Racism (SCAR) will host a silent march to show that they will not tolerate racism. The group has invited the public to join. It begins 10am at the Washington Center on 2nd Ave. W and 3rd St., and ends with a protest at UMD's Kirby Plaza (by the bus station).