The Department of Public Safety at Boise State released a hate crime timely warning Tuesday, Nov. 14.
The report cited that a victim was physically assaulted and verbally harassed by a group of males on Sunday Nov. 12 at 1:30 p.m. in the West Stadium Parking Lot located by Chaffee Hall, according to the campus crime log.
The victim was grabbed by her bicep and pulled down to the ground. Her perpetrator, a stranger sporting Boise State gear, a blue “Bronco” beanie and a gray sweatshirt with a blue “Bronco” t-shirt over it, yelled “Die [anti-LGTBQ slur]” at her before running off.
Since the motivation of the assault was fueled by violence of an assumed or perceived sexual orientation, the crime classifies as a hate crime. The University’s policy 1060 Non-Discrimination and Harassment was violated by the attacker, and once the attacker is identified they will face sanctions such as expulsion or termination.
On Nov. 16, during a joint meeting with the Senate and Assembly, ASBSU had a Declaration of Support for LGTBQA+ students at Boise State in response to the hate crime.
Ameila Jobe, an underserved population representative, introduced the statement to the joint meeting.
The rationale behind the statement concluded that, “ASBSU also declares a firm stance against any bias-driven hate crimes and any person who holds prejudiced, degrading, and unfair views on LGBTQIA+ persons” and that, “LGTBQA+ students at Boise State University should feel welcomed and supported in pursuing their educational and professional goals.”
The Declaration of Support passed unanimously and had the most co-signers in all of ASBSU history.
The Gender Equity Center addressed the timely warning with posts on their Instagram and Facebook on the same day.
“We recognize folks in our community often have their own experiences of harm, and reading or hearing about situations like this can cause us to reflect on our own safety. We want you to know we are here for you, and care deeply for your safety and well-being,” the post stated.
“The Gender Equity Center offers a lounge space where you can find community; speak with a Licensed Master Social Worker for confidential support; and receive referrals to campus and community resources. We are open Monday – Friday, 9AM – 5PM in the Student Union Building (SUB, 2nd floor).”
Confidential resources for students who experience harassment or discrimination can reach the Gender Equity Center at (208) 426-4259, University Health Services (208) 426-1459 or University Counseling Services (208) 426-1601.
