Hate-Bias Alert

November 19, 2021 

UMBC tracks, investigates, and reports hate-bias incidents on our campus. Hate-bias incidents are acts that could be interpreted as expressions of hate or bias against a particular group or individual because of their membership, perceived or actual, in that group. These acts may range from those considered to be offensive to acts that threaten or cause physical harm. Such incidents are inconsistent with UMBC values, including our community’s respect for diversity and inclusion. We believe it is important to alert our campus community about these divisive and hurtful occurrences. 

Incident:  Written; anti-Black racial slur posted multiple times during online meeting. 

Location:  Online

Date/Time:  11/18/21, 1:23 p.m.

Incident Description:  A student reported that during a student group Zoom meeting, an anti-Black racial slur appeared in the chat multiple times and on one of the slides. UMBC Police are investigating, with support from the Baltimore County and Maryland State Police forensic computer divisions. The Office of Equity and Inclusion, as well as the Division of Student Affairs, are reaching out to the students most directly impacted.

If you have any information about this incident, please call UMBC Police at 410-455-5555.

UMBC students, faculty, staff members, or visitors who choose to violate relevant policies and laws are solely responsible for their actions. University authorities will make every effort to sanction individuals who violate those policies and laws. Please be aware that the decision to violate these policies and laws may endanger your academic success and personal freedom.

Support and Safety

Students in need of support can contact i3b - Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging at i3b@umbc.edu. Faculty and staff can access support through the Employee Assistance Program. 

Community members may also report instances of hate or bias through the Office of Equity and Inclusion’s confidential reporting form. 

Paul Dillon
Chief of Police