Antisemitic and racist messages reported in Miami residence halls

Two of Miami University’s residence halls have experienced antisemitic and racist language and graffiti since September.

A first-year journalism student, who will remain anonymous for their safety, is part of the Jewish community and Miami’s Chabad chapter. On Sept. 27, their resident director (RD) found a swastika drawn on their whiteboard in Morris Hall.

Their RD reported it and contacted the police. That same week, an officer reached out about the investigation, and about two weeks later on Oct. 14, an investigator at the Office of Equal Employment contacted them, as well. As of right now, no suspects have been identified.

“I just hope that the person who did it is held accountable, because other [women’s]’ whiteboards in the hall were also defaced, but not as specifically as mine was,” they said. “It definitely feels very targeted towards me, and that's not cool. I'm not OK with anybody thinking that they have that kind of power over me.”

In an email to Morris Hall residents, Dean of Students BaShaun Smith wrote that his office is actively investigating the matter and urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. He added that, if identified, the responsible party will face consequences in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.

“Let me be clear: This hateful behavior is utterly unacceptable and undermines the values of respect and inclusion that define our community,” Smith wrote. “Protecting those who spread hate only perpetuates division … Antisemitism has no place at Miami or anywhere else, but we need your help to ensure our community remains a safe and welcoming space for all. We are stronger together.”

Another incident occurred in Tappan Hall. Smith wrote to the hall residents on Nov. 24 that a racial slur was found on a student’s door, while two other antisemitic messages – swastikas – were discovered in a communal bathroom.

Sarah Shmoel, the executive director of Hillel at Miami, sent out an email statement across campus on Dec. 3 that said Hillel at Miami is actively engaged and responding on behalf of its students and is demanding that the university implement antisemitism training and education in residence halls.

“We are working collaboratively to ensure swift action, accountability and protection for the students who are most affected,” Shmoel wrote. “We will continue to offer guidance, resources and community spaces where students can gather, process and feel supported. The strength of our community of students, parents, alumni, supporters and partners is felt during challenging times like these.”

Rabbi Yossi Greenberg, adviser to Miami Chabad, said the recent “hatred and bigotry” is not a common trend, at least not at Miami. He added that although he’s not sure why it happens, students have told him they don’t feel targeted and still feel safe on campus.

“There’s always something, which is interesting because since we know there is always something – it’s void of any meaning,” Greenberg said. “We tell our students not to be victims, and not to walk around in a victimhood [because] people don’t like the Jewish community, and that is as old as humans, it’s as old as the Jewish people.”

Smith wrote that if anyone witnesses hateful symbols or language on whiteboards or elsewhere, they should speak up and tell those involved to stop and report it to a residence hall staff member or contact MUPD as soon as possible.

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For those impacted, reach out to the Student Counseling Services or the Miami H.O.P.E. Line (24 hours a day; 855-249-5649). Students can also submit a student of concern report.

stumbata@miamioh.edu