Dozens of people gather at Salisbury University in response to alleged hate crimes

SALISBURY, MD. – A wave of emotion swept across the Salisbury University campus on Monday as dozens of people gathered for a unity walk and subsequent vigil a violent attack that has left the community shocked.

The meeting was organized following the arrest of twelve students accused of committing a hate crime after allegedly beating a man because of his sexual orientation.

The incident, which took place on October 15, has caused widespread concern, especially among the LGBTQ+ community at the university.

Students, faculty and community leaders gathered in the university’s main plaza on Monday. The vigil and walk, which surrounded the university campus, was a show of unity and resilience. Speakers included University President Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, faculty members and local advocates, who emphasized the importance of healing, inclusivity and standing up to hate.

“We have witnessed divisive actions, hurtful, violent actions that aim to undermine the sense of belonging that we work so hard to build here,” said Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, president of the University of Salisbury.

Organizers say Monday’s vigil was a time for reflection, healing and creating change in a school that does not tolerate hate.

The charges stem from an alleged attack involving 12 Salisbury University students accused of beating a man not affiliated with the university.

According to police, the assault occurred after one of the suspects lured the victim to an apartment through a gay dating app.

Once there, the group reportedly used derogatory language and physically assaulted the victim, leaving him with bruises and a broken rib. The victim sought medical attention for his injuries, which were significant but not life-threatening. Police say they have video footage of the incident.

The 12 suspects, a number of whom are from local areas including Crofton, Elkridge and Olney, have been arrested and charged with hate crimes.

The alleged hate crime has left many in the LGBTQ+ community deeply hurt and fearful.

Mark DeLancey, executive director of PFLAG Salisbury, an advocacy group for LGBTQ+ people, expressed outrage and concern following the incident.

“When I first heard about this incident over a week ago, my feelings were outrage, hurt and contempt. I don’t understand how we as human beings can be so mean to each other these days,” DeLancey said.

“I really feel like the biggest obstacle to overcome right now is that this is a slap in the face to the LGBTQ community. This is something that strikes a very sensitive chord. It creates fear, it creates anxiety, it creates feelings of not So feeling like you’re worthy really goes to the core of an individual and who they’re trying to be when they’re just trying to exist,” he said.

DeLancey says Pflag will be available to provide resources and support to every student.

“They may need some time to deal with this, they may need some time to get through it. I think each individual is going to have to figure out what that looks like, along with their support group, whether that’s faculty, relatives, colleagues. It will be a long road to get through something like this,” he added.

The university has now taken action.

Dr. Lepre confirmed that the students involved have been suspended, meaning they no longer have access to campus and cannot participate in academic courses.

In addition, some students are members of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, which has also been suspended.

Also announced Dr. Lepre plans to form a special task force focused on LGBTQ+ inclusivity at Salisbury University. This initiative aims to create a safer, more welcoming environment for all students.