According to CNN, a male student wore a costume that resembled a slave being hanged Wednesday Oct. 29.
The incident reportedly occurred at SkyBar on Magnolia Avenue.
Mike Clardy, director of University communications, provided a statement from the University.
"We condemn this type of behavior," said the statement. "Even though the incident didn't occur on our campus, it goes against everything for which this institution stands."
Haven Hart, director of Student Conduct, said the University can only be involved to a certain extent.
"Student Conduct addresses behavior that occurs on-campus or at a student organization event," Hart said. "That doesn't mean conversations can't happen, but Student Conduct is somewhat limited in addressing incidents that occur off-campus."
In response to the incident, the Black Student Union, the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and the National Pan-Hellenic Council, as part of the Division of Student Affairs, hosted a Town Hall Meeting in the Student Center ballroom.
Assistant director of Greek life and Intercultural Programs adviser Charus Campbell mediated the event.
"Tonight is supposed to be a conversation about what's on students' minds," Campbell said. "We want to discuss what we can do to move forward and educate our students while being more inclusive. Hopefully there will be follow-up conversations throughout the year."
Campbell began the event by reminding the audience of an incident that occurred in 2001.
"Individuals at two different functions, on the exact same night, dressed in blackface," Campbell said.
According to Campbell, blackface has a long and offensive history.
"Black actors were not allowed to be in films, so individuals would wear blackface to perform as African Americans in this country at that time," Campbell said. "There's a long history behind blackface and why it needed to stop."
Audience members were invited to share their thoughts about the incident.
After the event, Shannon Arthur, junior in political science and public relations, said this incident affects all students.
"There needs to be something in the code of conduct that says what you do when you're not on campus is reflective of Auburn University," Arthur said. "The administration hasn't said anything or done anything. This does affect students, and I think African American students don't need to feel like the red-headed stepchild anymore."
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
