A man who was caught on video using a homophobic slur while washing away a rainbow-colored chalk-art message in support of LGBTQ+ students at Brigham Young University is no longer a student at the school.
The man is “not currently enrolled” at the university, BYU spokeswoman Carri Jenkins said. She did not elaborate on whether the man dropped out or was expelled.
The incident happened on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 26. A video captured the man pouring a container of water on a rainbow-colored block “Y” on the sidewalk in front of the stairs leading to upper campus. He also used a homophobic slur. The video circulated on the internet and social media.
BYU condemned the man’s actions and issued the following statement about the incident on Aug. 27:
“We unequivocally condemn behavior and language that is disrespectful and hurtful. There is no place for hateful speech, or prejudice of any kind, on our campus or in our community. The Honor Code explicitly states that each member of the BYU community has the obligation to respect others. The incident seen in a video circulating on social media is now under review. This behavior runs counter to the directives shared by President Worthen in his University Conference address Monday. We are striving to create a community of belonging composed of students, faculty and staff whose hearts are knit together in love. Every student and individual on our campus deserves to feel that belonging.”
Less than a week earlier, BYU President Kevin Worthen announced the creation of an Office of Belonging led by a new vice president-level administrator who will join Worthen’s Cabinet, the President’s Council.
President Worthen’s announcement came six months after it was recommended by the official campus Committee on Race, Equity & Belonging.