Statement regarding faked social posts

June 4, 2020

Last night Western Michigan University became aware of racist social media posts, along with accusations that an incoming student posted them. The University has taken this very seriously. The language in the posts is abhorrent, and the accusations are very serious.

The University began investigating the matter immediately this morning. We included our dean of students, director of admissions and other University officials. We have talked with the incoming student and her parents, and consulted other information sources for verification purposes. Local law enforcement also investigated and was consulted by the University. The inquiry today has been intensive.

We’ve concluded that the incoming student's Facebook account was hacked, and the Snapchat account was faked. She did not make the posts, and they do not reflect her views. She was targeted by hackers in an attack designed to escalate unrest at a time when we are all seeking healing, peace and action that ends systemic racism. This has upended her life. In the fall, we will welcome her to campus, where we deeply value inclusion and reject discrimination and hate in all of its forms.

Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Ave.
Kalamazoo, Mich. 49008
info@wmich.edu