NAACP Calls on University of South Carolina President to Cancel ‘Roast’ Amidst Widespread Hate Speech

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 3, 2024 

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON - On Friday, the NAACP sent a letter to University South Carolina President Michael D. Amiridis, calling on him and University leadership to cancel an upcoming campus event featuring right-wing extremist 'Proud Boys' founder and other known white supremacists. The letter comes amidst widespread public outrage of the 'Roast' of Kamala Harris that has utilized racial tropes to boost attendance. 

NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson shared the following statement:

"Hate speech has long served as a weapon to undermine the progress of our nation. At a time where we are witnessing groundbreaking history, bad actors aim to cast a dark shadow on those very achievements. If South Carolina University's leadership values their Black students, it's only right they shut this event down. Our nation's schools must remain havens for learning, not platforms for hate. It is imperative that the university takes swift action in this matter and protects the campus community from patterns of divisiveness and degradation."

An online petition led by NAACP youth leaders has gained more than 14,000 signatures in support of canceling the September 18th event. Earlier this week, the NAACP released a statement expressing disappointment at the university's decision to host the event, stating that NAACP leadership remains "committed to ensuring the student, and broader South Carolina community are protected from hateful rhetoric or actions."

Excerpts from the letter include:

"..We feel compelled to write this letter because of the blatant sexist and racist nature of the event, the advertisement for it, and the potential for violence on campus because of the proposed event."

"There is no doubt that the advertisement… reeks of misogynoir – "the specific hatred, dislike, distrust, and prejudice directed toward Black women."

"Any proffered justification for the advertised event would appear to be nothing more than a pretext for discrimination"

A full copy of the letter sent to President Amiridis can be found here. 

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.