Hunter College Professor Faces Intense Backlash After Racist Comments Captured During School Meeting
An associate professor at Hunter College in New York City is confronting severe public condemnation and institutional scrutiny after being recorded making explicitly racist remarks about black students during a contentious school meeting. The incident has ignited widespread outrage among parents, students, and city officials, while intensifying debates about racial equity in education.
Incident Details and Immediate Fallout
Allyson Friedman, a tenured biology professor at Hunter College, was participating as a public school parent in a virtual Community Education Council meeting on February 10 when the disturbing episode unfolded. The meeting focused on a highly controversial proposal to close or relocate several schools within Manhattan's District 3, creating an already tense atmosphere.
During the livestreamed session, as a black eighth-grade student expressed concerns about her school potentially being shut down, Friedman's microphone inadvertently remained active. She was clearly heard making derogatory statements, including: "They're too dumb to know they're in a bad school." She followed this with an even more offensive comment: "If you train a black person well enough, they'll know to use the back. You don't have to tell them anymore."
The remarks, broadcast publicly, triggered immediate and forceful reactions. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal characterized the comments as "outrageous" and particularly disturbing given they occurred while children were testifying. Education officials and community leaders universally condemned the statements as racist and harmful, with many calling for accountability.
Institutional Responses and Investigations
Hunter College, which operates under the City University of New York system, issued a strong statement labeling Friedman's comments "abhorrent." The institution confirmed it has initiated a formal review to determine whether the remarks violated its conduct and non-discrimination policies, potentially leading to disciplinary action.
Simultaneously, the local school district has reportedly launched its own investigation into the matter. The dual probes reflect the seriousness with which both educational institutions are treating the incident, recognizing its potential to undermine trust in public education and higher learning environments.
Professor's Explanation and Apology
In a subsequent statement to media outlets, Friedman offered an explanation and apology for her remarks. She claimed her microphone had been unintentionally activated and asserted she had been attempting to explain systemic racism to her child by referencing what she described as "an obviously racist trope."
Friedman insisted her "complete comments" would have clarified that the views expressed were not her own and were not directed at any specific student or group. "I recognize these comments caused harm and pain. While that was not my intent, I do truly apologize," she stated, adding that she supports students opposing the proposed school closures.
Broader Implications and Context
The controversy has significantly amplified an already charged debate surrounding school closures, educational equity, and racial disparities within New York City's public education system. It has also renewed critical scrutiny regarding accountability and cultural sensitivity within higher education institutions, particularly concerning faculty conduct in public forums.
Friedman appeared to be referencing a historical quote by Carter G. Woodson about systemic racism and social conditioning. However, critics and community members have emphasized that the context does little to mitigate the damaging impact of her words, especially when delivered during a sensitive discussion about school resources and student welfare.
This incident underscores ongoing tensions in educational policy discussions and highlights the need for greater awareness and responsibility among educators when engaging in public discourse about race and equity.
