Controversial Remarks by US Professor Lead to Leave Amid Investigation

A Hunter College professor has been placed on leave following allegations of making racist comments during a virtual school meeting. The remarks, made while a student expressed concerns about school closures, have sparked outrage and led to an investigation by the college. President Nancy Cantor confirmed that the situation is being reviewed under the university's policies. The professor claims her comments were taken out of context, but community leaders have condemned her statements, highlighting the incident's timing during Black History Month. The outcome of the investigation remains pending.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 27, 2026, 00:39 IST

US Professor Faces Scrutiny for Alleged Racist Comments

A professor from Hunter College in New York has been placed on leave following allegations of making a racist comment during a virtual school meeting. The incident occurred on February 10, during a session of the New York City School District 3 Community Education Council, where the professor, Allyson Friedman, was participating as a parent. After the remarks were made public, the college administration took immediate action to investigate the situation.

During the meeting, a black eighth-grade student expressed concerns about the potential closure of her school. At that moment, Friedman's microphone was unmuted, and she was heard saying, "...They are too dumb to know that they are in a bad school." She further added, "If you train a black person well enough, they will know to use the back. You don’t have to tell them anymore." This sparked outrage among attendees, with one speaker urging her to stop.

Response from Hunter College and Community Leaders

Hunter College President Nancy Cantor stated that the situation is under review in accordance with the university's conduct and non-discrimination policies. The college has not disclosed whether Friedman is on paid or unpaid leave while the investigation is ongoing. In an interview with a major news outlet, Friedman claimed her comments were taken out of context, asserting that she was discussing systemic racism with her daughter and intended to illustrate a point about racist stereotypes.

The incident has drawn widespread criticism, with Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal labeling the remarks as 'outrageous.' Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. also expressed concern over the lack of immediate disciplinary action. Notably, the meeting coincided with Black History Month, emphasizing the ongoing issues of racial inequality.