A social media retelling of alleged harassment of two Donald Trump supporters at Howard University has drawn attention to the nation’s flagship HBCU, and a response from its administration.
A Twitter user posted a recounting and images which she says all stemmed from a visit to the historically black campus, and interactions with students and community members.
#noshame #MAGA pic.twitter.com/h14x9pAo9x
— al (@allie_vandee) August 19, 2017
Hours later, the university responded with a statement issued on social media.
A Thread:
Today, there were visitors on our campus who were wearing paraphernalia that showcased their political support. 1/10— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
This occurrence and the responses on social media that followed emphasize the need for and importance of human interaction. 2/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
The recent events in Charlottesville are the latest examples of the deep divisions that exist in our country. 3/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Though this is an institution where freedom of thought, choice, and expression are ever-present, we will never compromise our values 4/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
or allow others to convince us to do so. 5/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
We will remain committed to truth and service and boldly affirm who we are and what we stand for. 6/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Our campus is a space for educational engagement to occur between both those who do and do not share our values. 7/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Thankfully, when visitors set foot on our campus they are met with some of the brightest and best students in our nation. 8/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Howard students are not simply academically advanced, political activists, leaders, and mentors—9/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Howard students represent all that is right about America. 10/10
— Howard University (@HowardU) August 20, 2017
Students and supporters weighed in on the controversy following the statement, and have continued throughout today.
Facts! They knew what they were doing. There is no way they didn't know Howard University was an HBCU https://t.co/Sl2AxlYTVP
— Rich_Lyfe (@R_Pete11) August 20, 2017
Howard University. One of the largest historically black colleges? You had no idea? Your tour guide failed the mention that? https://t.co/a45lYjO8rK
— sarah schauer 🦂 (@sarahschauer) August 20, 2017
So you go to THE Howard University for lunch with Trump gear on and expect what???? 🤔 https://t.co/Kty4wwcNl4
— lak🧘🏽♀️ (@killwitkindnes_) August 20, 2017
In February, Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick addressed concerns over the university’s engagement with the federal government in areas such as appropriations and support from agencies beyond the Department of Education. Earlier this week, he was among a number of presidents to address violence stemming from clashes between Nazi, KKK and white supremacist protestors and counter demonstrators in Charlottesville last week.
