WASHINGTON — Incoming students at George Washington University will be required to undergo diversity training in the wake of a racially offensive Snapchat post that went viral in late January.
In a statement, university president Thomas LeBlanc listed several steps the university will take in response to the outcry surrounding the post, which depicted two young women, a banana and a racial comment.
The sorority Alpha Phi acknowledged the two women are members.
“The image was offensive and racially inflammatory — resulting in great harm to our community,” LeBlanc wrote. “We need to speak with one voice in saying racist acts against black students on this campus will not be tolerated.”
LeBlanc’s announcement of diversity training for all incoming students, beginning in fall 2018, did not provide details of what the training would entail and who would lead it.
Residential life staff, admissions staff, tour guides and other staff members who work closely with students will also receive training.
GWU will update its codes of conduct and equal opportunity policies, and establish a bias incident reporting system to track and address harassment and other forms of unwelcome conduct, LeBlanc said.
The university’s internal investigation also uncovered new details about the Snapchat post.
“The individuals pictured were unaware of the social media posting and its content until after it was posted,” LeBlanc wrote. “The picture was posted by a person who has said that they did not intend to offend others and acknowledged that the women in the picture did not know or approve of the associated caption.”
While the Student Association has called for the removal of the Alpha Phi sorority, LeBlanc said he is still considering what actions to take.
“Alpha Phi sorority has apologized for the incident and acknowledged issues within the sorority,” he said. “University staff are communicating with the national headquarters and considering appropriate actions.”
LeBlanc expressed hope the incident would be a catalyst for change.
“We want to harness the energy that has been generated by this moment to move with purpose and a sense of urgency toward ensuring all students truly feel welcome on this campus.”
