(JEWISH GROUP) Antisemitic and racist messages reported in Miami residence halls

Two of Miami University’s residence halls have experienced antisemitic and racist language and graffiti since September.

A first-year journalism student, who will remain anonymous for their safety, is part of the Jewish community and Miami’s Chabad chapter. On Sept. 27, their resident director (RD) found a swastika drawn on their whiteboard in Morris Hall.

Their RD reported it and contacted the police. That same week, an officer reached out about the investigation, and about two weeks later on Oct. 14, an investigator at the Office of Equal Employment contacted them, as well. As of right now, no suspects have been identified.

“I just hope that the person who did it is held accountable, because other [women’s]’ whiteboards in the hall were also defaced, but not as specifically as mine was,” they said. “It definitely feels very targeted towards me, and that's not cool. I'm not OK with anybody thinking that they have that kind of power over me.”

In an email to Morris Hall residents, Dean of Students BaShaun Smith wrote that his office is actively investigating the matter and urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. He added that, if identified, the responsible party will face consequences in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.

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