William Paterson University in New Jersey is investigating sorority sisters for a potential racist incident. University officials say they are “disgusted” by a video that shows two white college women — one of them a leader in the university’s sorority community — using the n-word.
The video, which was shared on Facebook and Twitter, shows two white women wearing Pennsylvania State University clothes using racial slurs, specifically the n-word. According to the South Pacific Daily Voice, while the student as yet to be officially identified, the William Paterson student uses the Twitter handle “jasmineee_b13.” The second student in the video was identified as a Penn State student on social media, however, the school did not confirm that she was a student.
One tweet from a Penn State student identifies the woman in the video as Jasmine Barkley, calling for the university to take disciplinary action. However, Penn State replied saying “We condemn racist messages, as they are hateful and violate our institutional values. We cannot, however, impose sanctions for Constitutionally protected speech, no matter how offensive.”
William Paterson released the following statement on Facebook:
Furthermore, the Delta Phi Epsilon sorority also issued a statement denouncing the video:
“Delta Phi Epsilon International Headquarters has just become aware of an unfolding situation at William Paterson University. We are investigating the actions of one member and will take swift, decisive action to remove her or any member who does not uphold our values,” said Nicole Defeo, executive director of the international organization.
Delta Phi Epsilon’s international office says it’s aware of the situation and promises to decisive action to remove her or any member who does not uphold their values. In addition, Dr. Miki Cammarata, William Paterson’s VP for student development says the university staff is investigating the matter to determine what actions are appropriate.
