Members of two Auburn University fraternities attended Halloween parties at
their fraternity houses wearing costumes that are widely recognized as
insulting, demeaning and derogatory to African-Americans.
The Auburn
University Division of Student Affairs learned of the incidents Monday, Nov. 5
and within four hours, both fraternities had been suspended by the university.
The national offices of both fraternities, Beta Theta Pi and Delta Sigma Phi,
have also suspended the chapters.
The actions of the fraternity members are
deplorable and an embarrassment to themselves, their fraternities, this
university, state and nation.
The Division of Student Affairs has launched a
swift and thorough investigation of the incidents at the fraternities with Nov.
16 as the target date for resolution. Hearings on the fraternity issues will be
held by the Committee on Fraternities and Sororities. Additionally, complaints
targeting individuals may be heard by the Auburn University Discipline
Committee.
In all proceedings, due process will be followed, with input from
all concerned parties along with opportunity for the accused to refute
charges.
We direct you to the Student Affairs website,
www.auburn.edu/student_info/student_affairs
and
www.auburn.edu for information
about forums, discussions and opportunities to sign the Birmingham Pledge on
campus within the coming days and weeks.
The first of these events is
"Auburn Connected Community: Achieving Tolerance," a Provost Brown Bag Lunch
event from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 in 217 Foy Student Union.
All faculty, students and staff are invited. Beverages and cookies will be
provided.
W. Wes Williams