NAACP Condemns the Actions of Professor Shaheen Borna at Ball State University

Contact: Marc Banks // dbanks@naacpnet.org

Baltimore, MD – The NAACP is outraged by the incident on the campus of Ball State University. Far too often, police are weaponized against people of color impetuously. The actions taken by Professor Shaheen Borna are yet the latest example of thoughtless behavior that yields traumatic and frequently detrimental outcomes. Countless men and women throughout our nation have experienced discrimination, racial profiling, and over-policing at the hands of bigotry and intolerance.

Colleges and universities are built on the premise of encouraging young minds and challenging what is possible under the wisdom and tutelage of experienced educators. Nothing in terms of the demand or the action taken by Professor Borna reflects that premise. This behavior is shameful, and apologies are not sufficient for racist behavior. We demand that immediate action is taken to thwart such dangerous and unacceptable behavior in the future. We must commit to eliminating the severe racial inequities that continue to plague our educational system and work to ensure that all students of color have access to safe campuses, excellent teaching, and equitable resources.

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About NAACP:

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. You can read more about the NAACP's work and our six "Game Changer" issue areas at naacp.org.