Elizabeth Erwin
News Editor
eerwin1@murraystate.edu
When a slur is written on a wall and then painted over later in the day, does it still matter?
On Friday, Sept. 7 the words “F–k Islam” were discovered on the exterior wall of the Fine Arts building. Upon discovery, University officials were notified.
At 1:20 p.m. Friday, the incident was reported to the Murray State Police Department, according to the Murray State’s Crime and Fire Log.
By the end of the day, the slur was painted over by Facilities Management.
However, the slur was on the wall for two days before anyone reported it. The incident is reported to have occured at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 5, according to the Murray State’s Crime and Fire Log.
Interim President Bob Jackson said he was made aware of the incident and he believes it was an isolated case.
“I’ve been around [Murray] a long time and I’ve not ever sensed any major issues on this campus in my tenure,” Jackson said. “I think it’s very isolated, there’s no place for that at all.”
Jackson said students should strive to understand one another more.
“The world would be a much better place if we understood each other just a little bit better,” Jackson said. “That someone who did that is ignorant of others and others’ beliefs.”
Student Government Association President J.T. Payne was not aware of the incident, but he said students can combat ignorant behavior by leading by example.
“When you see things happening, don’t laugh at it,” Payne said. “Sometimes we make jokes that may not be appropriate, and it’s important that we have people that are willing to diplomatically say ‘that’s not right, we can’t say things like that – we shouldn’t say things like that’ because we’ve got to create an environment that everyone feels welcome and comfortable being a student here.”
The case remains open.
“There are no suspects in custody at this time regarding this incident,” according to a statement from University officials. “Those with information are encouraged to contact the Murray State Police Department. This incident is not reflective of our diverse campus community and does not align with our principles of respect and inclusion for all. Individuals who need assistance as a result of this incident may contact University Counseling Services at 270-809-6851.”
This is not the only recent graffiti case to affect Murray State’s campus. On Sunday, Sept. 9 at 3:53 a.m. graffiti on the foot bridge over Chestnut Street was reported to Murray State Police, according to Murray State’s Crime and Fire Log. The incident was reported to have occured at 12:30 a.m. before police were notified. The case remains open but there is no clear connection between the two incidents.
The slur was painted over later in the day.