LGBTQ students harassed in ‘horrific’ incident at Bucknell University, school says
Officials at Bucknell University, located in Lewisburg, Pa., Condemned a “horrific” incident in which LGBTQ students were harassed at an affinity house last week, according to a statement released by the school Friday. .
The incident took place Thursday at Tower House: Fran’s House, an affinity house that provides LGBTQ and non-sexist housing for Bucknell students.
The letter, signed by University President John Bravman, Provost Elisabeth Mermann-Jozwiak and Associate Provost for Equity and Inclusive Excellence Nikki Young, explains that a group of male students came together. approached the residence, which once housed Tau Kappa Epsilon, a brotherhood that is no longer recognized. by school.
He goes on to say that “these men allegedly harassed and intimidated the inhabitants of Tower House while trying to enter the building”.
“It is clear from several testimonials that the students violated the physical space and, more importantly, the residents’ sense of belonging and safety. Moreover, it is just as clear as Bucknell Public Safety’s response to the incident was lacking in multiple ways “. the letter reads.
The school will not only investigate student actions and submit a report to the Bucknell administration for prompt and appropriate consequences, but an outside company will investigate the school’s public safety department response to the incident and put implementing “corrective and disciplinary measures, if applicable.” “
The letter does not identify the students who were victims or the abusers involved in the incident.
“Many members of our community have come together to offer support to the residents of Tower House. This support includes counseling and academic support that may be needed during the week of the finals, â€the letter said.
In the letter, the school promised to continue having conversations with students from the Fran’s House affinity group about the future of their housing needs.
“We cannot erase the ugliness and consequent trauma of last night’s transgression against the students of Maison de Fran and, by implication, many others,” the letter states. “But we can commit to addressing this in a way that protects LGBTQ Bucknellians and better ensures their safety in the future.”