Hate speech and other bias-related incidents will be posted to this page within 48 hours. However, to prevent jeopardizing active investigations, there may be instances where it takes longer than 48 hours to post. Reports made via the STOP Bias website will only be referred to the Department of Public Safety if the reporter chooses or if the nature of the incident requires DPS involvement.
This page will be your trusted source of accurate and reliable information as it relates to bias incidents.
Most Recent Bias Incident Report:
Department of Public Safety Investigating Report of Bias Incident at Newhouse
The Department of Public Safety is investigating a bias report received on Monday, October 20. A student reported discovering offensive language regarding LGBTQ individuals and a racial slur written on a whiteboard hanging outside an office in Newhouse 2. At this time, it is unclear when the language was written.
DPS officers immediately responded upon receipt of the report, meeting with the reporting party to gather information and offer support resources. Officers documented the whiteboard with photographs before removing the offensive content. Investigators are working to establish when the incident occurred and are pursuing all available leads, though no witnesses or surveillance footage have been identified at this time.
“This kind of conduct contradicts the values of our campus community and has no role on a campus that strives to be welcoming to all,” said Chief Michael Bunker. “We are conducting a thorough investigation and urge anyone with information to come forward. To those affected by this incident, please know that we firmly condemn the use of such language and are committed to maintaining a campus where every member of our community feels safe, valued and respected.”
Anonymous tips can be reported to DPS through the Silent Witness tool or the Orange Safe mobile app. To report a bias incident or to receive support, visit the Stop Bias website or email stopbias@syr.edu.
Additionally, if you or someone you know has been affected by a bias incident, resources are available.
Past Bias Incident Reports:
Visit our updated investigative tracker and archive of all past bias incident reports.