A video is going viral on social media showing a young white man at Columbia College, an undergrad college of Columbia University in New York, going on a rant to a group of minority students. In his racist views he spouts off that white people are "best thing that ever happened to the world." He continues wildly jumping around apparently intoxicated while stating:
"We invented science and industry, and you want to tell us to stop because oh my God, we're so bad. We saved billions of people from starvation. White people are the best thing that ever happened to the world. We are so amazing. I love myself, and I love white people. Look, I don't hate other people. I just love white men."
Columbia College sent out a statement denouncing racism on campus.
The statement read:
We write to you to unequivocally denounce a deeply disturbing racially charged incident involving Columbia undergraduates that took place in front of Butler Library and JJ's Place early this morning.
Many of you have heard about or seen the alarming footage online, which includes painful language directed toward students of color in our community. Although we cannot comment on the proceedings, this incident is already under investigation by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, and we want to assure you that it will be investigated thoroughly, beginning with interviews of witnesses.
We are alarmed at the rise of incidents of racism and hate speech in our world today. It is more important than ever that we continually demonstrate our core values and restate our commitment to a diverse, inclusive community on campus. At Columbia, we stand firmly against white supremacist language and violence. As we said last week, our community will not waver in its support for those of any faith, race, gender, sexual orientation, background or identity.
We understand this may be a difficult time for you and your classmates. Members of our on-call team began to provide individual support as soon as we learned of the incident. If you need support this evening, please reach out to your RA, who will connect you to additional resources as necessary.
All undergraduate students are invited to an open reflection space tomorrow night, Monday, December 10, 6:00-8:00 p.m. in Lerner Hall 505, hosted by Multicultural Affairs, for students to be in community with each other. Additional areas of support will be announced as we are able to plan.
Our collective work toward peace, respect and understanding must continue, both within our community and society at large.
People are condemning the man's views.
Is it time to revamp the American education system?
H/T: NBC, New York Times
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