The University of Mississippi launched an investigation following the circulation of a social media video that appears to show individuals making racist gestures at an apartment doorbell camera. The university confirmed that its appropriate offices are actively reviewing the incident, which occurred at the residence of a freshman student and her two Black roommates.
The investigation follows the public posting of footage from a Ring security camera. According to a report by WREG, the video depicts two individuals making monkey sounds and gestures as they walk past the door. The mother of a freshman student at the university stated that her daughter's camera captured the encounter.
University officials issued statements condemning the actions seen in the video as unacceptable and hurtful. Shawnboda Mead, the vice chancellor of student affairs, stated that staff have contacted the students directly affected by the incident to provide support. Mead also noted that online rumors had incorrectly identified one student as being involved and clarified that no members of the university’s sorority community were part of the incident.
For the students living in the apartment and the broader campus community, the incident and the university’s response represent a test of campus safety and conduct policies. Students would notice the impact of these policies through the university's efforts to maintain a "safe and welcoming environment" and the direct support services offered to those disparaged by the gestures. The incident also highlights the role of private security technology, such as doorbell cameras, in documenting conduct cases near campus.
The university has not provided a specific deadline for when the investigation will be completed. Officials stated they will follow established internal processes to resolve the matter. Future steps include the continuation of the active investigation by university offices and ongoing support for the affected residents. Mead urged the community to be cautious with information shared online to avoid further misidentification of uninvolved students.