The University of Mississippi has launched an investigation after a viral video showed three students making racist gestures outside the apartment of Black students.
University confirms investigation into viral video The university confirmed Sunday that it is investigating the incident, which was captured on a Ring doorbell camera and shared widely on social media. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Shawnboda Mead condemned the behavior in a statement, calling it deeply troubling, hurtful, and unacceptable.
Video shows students making monkey noises The footage, timestamped November 6 at approximately 8:37 p.m., depicts two women making ape-like noises and gestures as they pass by a doorbell camera. A third woman walks past while glancing at the camera. The video was shared on TikTok by Ole Miss student Jakiyra Metcalf, who identified the women as her upstairs neighbors. The clip has amassed over 12 million views.
University reaches out to affected students Mead stated that university staff have contacted the students directly impacted by the incident to offer support. The university also emphasized that it is committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, and staff. Mead urged caution in sharing unverified information, noting that one student had already been incorrectly identified online.
Mother of Black student calls actions unacceptable Tasha Bolton, whose daughter is a freshman at Ole Miss with two Black roommates, shared the video on Facebook and called for accountability. “The video has been shared with university administration, and we want answers,” Bolton wrote. “Specifically, what steps will be taken to address this behavior and ensure accountability?”
University cites FERPA protections in response A university spokesperson noted that student conduct cases and any potential disciplinary actions are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The statement reiterated the university’s condemnation of the offensive behavior and its commitment to following established processes.
Incident draws widespread outrage online The video has sparked significant backlash on social media, with many condemning the actions as racist and unacceptable. Critics have called for swift disciplinary action against the students involved. The university has not yet identified the individuals in the video, and their identities remain unverified by independent sources.
Background on the incident The video was recorded outside an apartment where the affected students reside. The students involved in the incident are alleged to live in the same building as the targeted students. The university has not provided further details about the investigation or potential disciplinary measures at this time.