Pomona College Students Speak Out About Recent Racist Incidents on Campus
Racism Allegations Emerge at Pomona College
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. — Pomona College students have raised concerns over multiple incidents of racism on campus, including allegations involving athletes and a faculty member using a racial slur.
In a recent communication to students, the college acknowledged these incidents but did not provide details about any disciplinary actions. This response has drawn criticism from the Black Student Union, which expressed dissatisfaction over the administration’s lack of action.
Students reported that several athletes have repeatedly used the racial slur without facing repercussions. The atmosphere of unease it has created prompted some students to speak out. “There were so many allegations of this happening, and then also that they were telling everyone that a faculty member had done it,” said Caiya, a student at Pomona College. Another student, Michael, expressed concern about the context in which a professor allegedly used the slur, saying, “If it’s just something that’s verbatim being said without it being a part of what we’re learning, it would concern me a little bit, yeah.”
Sara, another student, pointed to a broader frustration over the administration’s response: “I think it’s fair to say that there could have been more done. There’s a bit of frustration around a lack of response to things that are making students feel uncomfortable on campus.”
The college’s email to students did not mention any specific disciplinary measures. A spokesperson for Pomona College stated, "Racism is antithetical to Pomona College’s mission and values and has no place on our campus. When informed of incidents, we follow our internal processes, offering affected students support, and investigating and determining appropriate response actions. Because we are legally required to protect the privacy of individuals in our community, we cannot share additional details."
The Black Student Union has criticized the level of support available to them, which is expected to be a key topic at a scheduled town hall meeting on March 25 at 7 p.m. in Walker Lounge. As students prepare for this discussion, the ongoing issue of racism at Pomona College continues to concern the campus community.
