Syracuse University has suspended a fraternity after videos surfaced showing racist, sexist behavior, the chancellor said.
According to Chancellor Kent Syverud, the videos of members of the SU chapter of Theta Tau showed offensive behavior which he described as racist, anti-Semitic, homophobic, sexist and “hostile to people with disabilities.”
“I am appalled by this and deeply concerned for all members of our community,” Syverud wrote in a message to students, faculty, and staff. “There is absolutely no place at Syracuse University for behavior and language that degrades any individual or group’s race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender identity, disability or religious beliefs.”
According to Syverud. the university’s Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities immediately suspended the fraternity once the video was confirmed. They have been banned from any activities or scheduled events.
The evidence was given to the Syracuse’s Department of Public Safety, which will investigate and recommend disciplinary action.
Video of the disturbing initiation ritual was released. The Washington Post reports:
In the scene that has incited students across Syracuse to protest the frat behind the video, the Tri Kappa leader stands before a Theta Tau member (the same one who had sex with a dog earlier in the skit).
He makes the inductee kneel and asks:
“Do you know the oath?”
“F‑‑‑ black people,” says the inductee, who then says something similar about Hispanics, but with a racial slur.
“You’re close,” says the leader. “I solemnly swear … ”
“I solemnly swear,” repeats the inductee, who like the leader delivers his lines in an exaggerated Southern accent.
“To always have hatred in my heart for …”
“To always have hatred in my heart for …”
“[Black people]”
The inductee repeats the word, which this newspaper cannot, followed by another slur for Hispanics, followed by much laughter from the audience.
“And most importantly … ” says the leader, prompting the second man to complete the oath by using a slur for Jewish people.
