Indiana State University Issues Statement After Student Made Racist Remarks in Video

Indiana State University is speaking out after a student’s critique against Beyoncé becoming a Black female country artist went viral.

According to ABC 33/40, WISH-TV, and WFIU, the video in which the student said remarks such as “I’m sorry, but if you’re Black, you’re not country” was posted after the singer released her Cowboy Carter album in late March.

University president Deborah J. Curtis said in a statement issued on Wednesday, April 10, that upon learning of the video’s existence, her staff “immediately worked with the Vice President of Student Affairs to identify the student, communicate directly with student leaders, and strategize how to prioritize student well-being and safety.”

While the university says they’ve identified the student, they did not name her in the statement.

Curtis said there has been “rampant information spreading online,” adding that “the privacy of students, due process, and actions taken by the university and its employees cannot be shared” under federal law.

The faculty leader said the “entire campus community” has been impacted by the video and expressed that “racism, hate speech, and discrimination of any kind is deplorable and in direct contradiction of Indiana state’s mission, vision, and values.”

She emphasized that the comments in the viral video in “no way represent the ideals and goals” of the university.

The president’s statement came a day after the university issued a separate statement expressing that it was taking that incident “seriously” and is “committed to ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone.”

The university’s response to the video has caused various student body members to speak out online, including the Indiana State University NAACP Executive Committee and African Student Union, which called for the university to issue disciplinary action against the student.

Since its release, Cowboy Carter has seen massive success, including reaching No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart.

The milestone made Beyoncé, 42, the first ever Black female artist to achieve the feat since the list’s launch in January 1964.

With the album single “Texas Hold ‘Em,” the musician also became the first-ever Black female artist to top the Hot Country Songs chart.

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