PORTLAND, Oregon — A Portland State University (PSU) student has sparked controversy after wearing an offensive costume to an event on campus, confirmed by a PSU spokesperson to KGW.
On Oct. 27, a PSU student attended a costume contest program hosted in one of PSU's residential halls, Ondine Hall, wearing a Nazi costume.
In an email sent out this week to residents, PSU addressed the incident, emphasizing that hateful actions are not tolerated within residential communities. The email also stated that the action of the student doesn't fall in alignment with the values of respect and inclusivity upheld within residential communities.
"We are aware of an incident that occurred at a Costume Contest program in Ondine Hall on Sunday, October 27th, that was not in agreement with our values of respect and inclusivity in Residence Life. The costume, actions, and words of this individual were harmful toward individuals of many different backgrounds," the email said, in part.
"If you saw or experienced this situation and felt like your home is no longer safe or respectful, we want you to know that we care about your experience and we do not tolerate hateful actions within our residential communities."
The email further goes on to offer resources and support for the residential community members impacted. PSU has not released details on whether the student will face any consequences, or if the student lives within one of the residential communities.
The incident is being investigated by PSU's Office of Equity and Compliance’s bias team.
