University of Guelph, police investigating pub night that included hate symbols and discriminatory slurs

The University of Guelph says it’s investigating after a recent pub night saw students using racist, antisemitic, anti-Black and homophobic language as well as “the appearance of hate symbols.”

The Student Federation of the Ontario Agricultural College posted on Facebook that the event in question was an Aggie Pub night. The theme was graffiti night, where students wore white shirts and other students painted graffiti on their shirts.

“As a student community, we all share responsibility for upholding respect, accountability, and inclusion. We encourage students to speak up, support one another, and choose empathy in their actions,” the student federation said.

“Discrimination and hate in any form have no place in the [Ontario Agricultural College]. They harm individuals and weaken the sense of safety and belonging that every student deserves. We stand with those impacted and fully support efforts to address these incidents.”

A comment on the statement being posted by the federation on Instagram noted swastikas were put on some of the shirts.

The federation said the university is following its protocols for “hate or bias-motivated incidents” and the Ontario Agricultural College is working “to ensure that appropriate actions are taken.”

The University of Guelph said in an email to staff, faculty and students that it’s investigating “a deeply troubling” on-campus event.

“Let us be absolutely clear, hate will not be tolerated at the University of Guelph,” the email said.

In a statement to CBC News, the university said while an investigation is underway, future similar events have been suspended.

“Anyone found to have violated university policies will be subject to action under the student rights and responsibilities policy,” the statement said.

“We are engaging student leaders and campus partners to reinforce expectations and strengthen education around equity, inclusion, and respectful community conduct.”

The statement also said students impacted by the event can seek out support services through various on-campus resources.

The Guelph Police Service also confirmed officers are investigating.

“We are actively working with and liaising with the University of Guelph as part of the ongoing investigation,” Const. Mason Melitzer said.