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

SALISBURY, Md – A wave of emotion swept the Salisbury University campus on Monday as dozens gathered for a unity march and vigil after a violent attack rocked the community.

The rally was organized in response to the arrest of 12 students who were charged with a hate crime after allegedly beating a man because of his sexual orientation.

The incident, which occurred on October 15, has caused great distress, particularly among the university’s LGBTQ+ community.

On Monday, students, faculty and community leaders gathered in the university’s main plaza. The vigil and walk that circled the university campus was a sign of unity and resilience. Speakers included University President Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, faculty members and local advocates who emphasized the importance of healing, inclusion and resisting hate.

“We have seen divisive, hurtful and violent actions aimed at undermining the sense of belonging we work so hard to build here,” Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, President of Salisbury University.

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

The charges stem from an alleged attack on 12 Salisbury University students who are accused of punching a man not associated with the university.

According to police, the attack occurred after one of the suspects lured the victim to an apartment via 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 because of his serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Police say they have video evidence of the incident.

The 12 suspects, several of whom are from the area including Crofton, Elkridge and Olney, were arrested and charged with hate crimes.

The alleged hate crime has left many in the LGBTQ+ community feeling a deep sense of hurt and fear.

Mark DeLancey, the 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, I felt outrage, hurt and contempt. I don’t understand how we as people 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 “Feeling worthy really goes to the core of an individual and what they are “What it’s trying to be when it’s just about existing,” he said.

DeLancey says Pflag will offer resources and support to every student.

“They might need some time to get through it, they might need some time to get through it. I think each individual needs to work with their support group, be it teachers, family members, etc., to figure out what this looks like. Colleagues. It will be a long road to go through something like this,” he added.

The university has since taken action.

Dr. Lepre confirmed that the students in question have been suspended, meaning they are barred from campus and unable to attend academic courses.

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

In addition, Dr. Lepre announced plans to form a special task force focused on LGBTQ+ inclusivity at Salisbury University. The goal of this initiative is to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all students.