Purdue students continue to speak out about race-related incident

West Lafayette, Ind. (WLFI) - This is the second bias incident, the term used for the race-related incidents, the University has seen this year.

In February a picture of Dr. Cornell Bell inside Krannert School of Management was defaced with the "n" word.    
   
Black Graduate Student Association President Tyrell Connor said something needs to change.

"Because it's not just a bias incident, it is a racist incident and that's how underrepresented minorities on campus are going to take it, and that's how the whole University should take it, and we shouldn't hide that concept or that language at all," Connor said.

Connor has been working closely with Purdue administrators to address the recent issue in which the "n" word was found on a whiteboard inside Krannert.

Connor said because this is the second racist act in less than a year on Purdue's campus, he's concerned it may happen again.

"If the University doesn't take proper measures in making a clear statement that racism isn't allowed here, then what could happen the third time or the fourth time if it's going to continue to escalate? I think it's a safety issue for all underrepresented minorities here," Connor said.

Some students said racism is an issue on Purdue's campus and said they've had first-hand experiences with the the problem.

"One of the first days I was here I was walking down the street and someone yelled the 'n' word at me," Purdue student Dubem Mbeledogu said.

"I've heard people drive past and yell racial slurs out at people or other discriminatory comments about sexual orientation," Purdue student Jeff Ooms said.

Connor said he's been working with the University and other student organizations to implement a new curriculum  for students in which diversity will be the focus.

"Specifically talk about issues of diversity, issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, all that stuff and address it once they first walk into Purdue's door," Connor said about the new class he would like to see at Purdue.

Vice Provost for Diversity Dr. Christine Taylor said educating students and staff is a top priority.

"You ought to be able to come to this campus and thrive and not just survive, and what I think our students are asking for as well as our faculty, as well as our staff, is that we implement institutional processes to make sure we're doing all that we can to make this place one that is truly inclusive," Dr. Taylor said.

Conner said he's looking forward to collaborating with Purdue officials and students to make Purdue a safe learning environment for all students.

There will be a forum Tuesday on Purdue's campus to discuss race-related issues.