Oxford, Miss. – A video recorded by a Ring doorbell has sparked outrage on campus after it captured three women walking past an off‑campus apartment and making monkey noises, a clear act of racial harassment aimed at the three Black students who live there.
What the video shows
The footage, posted by the daughter of Tasha Bolton – an African American freshman at the University of Mississippi – shows the three women passing the front door of the apartment. Two of the women can be heard making monkey sounds as they walk by. The video quickly spread on social media on Saturday, drawing comments from students, faculty and visitors.
Student reactions
Sophomore Olivia Landgreve, who does not live in the apartment, said she was deeply upset by the incident. “I like to think that people don’t see me like that. I’m just a person like everybody else. Very upsetting to think that maybe people are thinking other things while they’re looking at me while I walk on campus,” she said.
Landgreve added that she had never experienced anything like this before and felt the incident set back the progress she believes the university has made in fostering an inclusive environment.
Jamie Purcell, a visitor from California, expressed similar disgust after seeing the video. “It’s disgusting, and they’re just not smart, and they’re acting incorrectly to something people should know differently about,” she said.
University response
On Sunday, the University of Mississippi released an official statement condemning the behavior. The university said it is “aware of a video depicting offensive, hurtful, and unacceptable behaviors that conflict with our university values and we condemn them.” The statement emphasized that the institution has reached out to the targeted students to provide information, resources, and support.
The university also noted that the incident is under investigation by the appropriate university offices and processes. It reminded the community that student conduct records and any potential disciplinary action are protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The university reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Community impact
The incident has reignited conversations about racism on campus and the need for continued vigilance in protecting students of color. Local leaders and faith‑based groups have expressed solidarity with the affected students, urging the university and the broader Oxford community to stand firm against hate and to uphold the values of respect and dignity.
While the investigation proceeds, the university encourages anyone who witnesses similar behavior to report it promptly so that appropriate action can be taken.
Next steps
University officials have pledged to keep the campus community informed as the investigation unfolds. They also plan to review existing safety protocols and consider additional measures to deter future incidents of this nature.
For students and residents seeking support, the university’s counseling services and local community organizations remain available.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
