By Michael Bernaschina Staff writer
Racist graffiti was found in a restroom on campus just prior to the beginning of spring break, according to an email sent to students and staff by Susquehanna President L. Jay Lemons last week.
“Colleges and universities around the country have reported a number of incidents targeting African-American students, and members of the Jewish, Muslim and LGBTQ communities,” Lemons wrote in his email. “As you know, Susquehanna has been no exception. These bias incidents have increased on our own campus and across the nation.”
According to the email, the graffiti was discovered in a restroom in Apfelbaum Hall by a member of the housekeeping staff.
The incident is currently being investigated by officers of Public Safety, who believe the graffiti was done on either March 9 or March 10, according to Public Safety Director Angelo Martin.
“Such acts threaten the sense of safety and security for many members of our community,” Lemons wrote in the email. “This is not acceptable and it weakens our connectedness to one another.”
In the email, Lemons also stated that actions would be taken to make sure members of the community are protected and that similar incidents will be thoroughly investigated.
“We have provided, and will continue to provide, opportunities for community conversation around these issues to create an open dialogue and reinforce our values,” he wrote. “We are collaborating with the Selinsgrove Ministerium and other groups to engage the local community in efforts to build a sense of greater safety for all.”
“Campus safety has been stepped up. We’ve added security cameras and lighting and improved existing lighting,” he added. “Public Safety officers are available to serve as escorts for anyone who feels unsafe.”
“Every single one of these we take very seriously and recognize the effect it could have on our students, faculty and staff,” Martin added regarding the threats.
In January, a public forum was held where members of the community could voice their concerns after similar incidents took place on campus. Panelists included Martin, members of the faculty, officers from the Pennsylvania State Police and Thomas Garlock, chief of the Selinsgrove Police Department.
One topic of discussion at the panel was the relationship Public Safety has with the local and state police and how all three cooperate to investigate similar incidents.
While there are no immediate plans for another forum, Martin said he is always open to the idea.
“We absolutely encourage our students, faculty and staff to come forward with information,” he added. “Even if they think it might not be helpful.”
