Hunter College Professor Faces Backlash for Racist Comments During Meeting

Controversial Remarks by Professor

Allyson Friedman, an associate professor at Hunter College, has issued an apology following her controversial remarks during a public meeting that were labeled as "blatantly racist" by city officials. The incident occurred on February 10 during a Community Education Council meeting held via Zoom, where Friedman was overheard making derogatory comments while a black eighth-grade student expressed concerns regarding the potential closure of her school located on the Upper West Side.

Friedman was caught saying, "They're too dumb to know they're in a bad school," while the student spoke. She further added, "If you train a black person well enough, they'll know to use the back. You don't have to tell them anymore." These statements sparked immediate outrage.

In her defense, Friedman explained to the New York Times that she was trying to illustrate systemic racism to her child by referencing a well-known racist stereotype, claiming that her full comments were not entirely clear. "My complete comments make clear these abhorrent views are not my own, nor were they directed at any student or group," she stated. "I fully support these courageous students in their efforts to stop school closures."

Despite her explanation, Friedman acknowledged that her comments caused significant harm and expressed her sincere apologies. A representative from Hunter College condemned her remarks as "abhorrent." New York City Council member Chi Ossé has called for her termination, stating on social media that Hunter College must take immediate action against Friedman. He emphasized that the university should not apply different standards for political speech compared to overt anti-black racism.

City Council education chair Rita Joseph also condemned the remarks, labeling them as "blatantly racist and harmful." She criticized Friedman for using dehumanizing language during a moment when a student bravely shared their experiences. Joseph stated, "These comments are vile, offensive and rooted in the same hateful ideology that has harmed generations of black and brown children in this country. Let me be clear: I unequivocally condemn these racist remarks." Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal echoed these sentiments, highlighting the particularly despicable nature of the comments made in front of children during their testimony.