NY College Professor Placed on Leave After Racist Remarks About Black Students
A New York college professor has been placed on administrative leave following a severe backlash over racist comments she made about black students during a virtual public meeting. The incident, which occurred during a Community Education Council gathering, has ignited widespread condemnation and prompted an official investigation by the university.
Incident Details and Immediate Fallout
Allyson Friedman, an associate biology professor at Hunter College, inadvertently interrupted a black eighth-grade student's testimony about potential school closures with her microphone unmuted. In the recording, Friedman was heard making derogatory statements, including, "They're too dumb to know they're in a bad school" and "If you train a black person well enough, they'll know to use the back. You don't have to tell them anymore." These remarks, described as abhorrent by officials, quickly circulated online, leading to public fury.
University Response and Investigation
Hunter College President Nancy Cantor issued a statement confirming that Friedman has been placed on leave pending the outcome of an investigation under the university's conduct and nondiscrimination policies. Cantor emphasized the university's commitment to addressing systemic racism, noting that the incident occurred during a meeting celebrating Black History Month. The statement also highlighted the availability of counseling services for affected community members.
Context and Public Reaction
Friedman's comments appeared to reference a quote from Carter G. Woodson's 1933 book, "The Mis-Education of the Negro," which discusses the psychological impacts of racism. However, public officials and educators swiftly condemned her conduct. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman Sigal labeled the remarks "outrageous" and particularly criticized their timing during children's testimony. Others, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., called for her immediate dismissal, questioning why she hadn't been fired yet.
Professor's Defense and Ongoing Scrutiny
In her defense, Friedman claimed to the New York Times that she was explaining systemic racism to her child by referencing a racist trope and that her full comments were not audible due to a microphone error. She asserted that the views expressed were not her own. Despite this, the incident has raised serious concerns about her fitness to interact with students, with United Jewish Teachers president Moshe Spern stating she "shouldn't be near any child at all."
The case underscores ongoing challenges in educational institutions regarding racism and accountability, as Hunter College continues its investigation into the matter.
