In an email yesterday morning, Dean of Engineering Albert Pisano denounced an incident this month in which a collaborative class study guide was defaced with racial slurs and promised to follow-up with an investigation.
“I would like to take this opportunity to state unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms that UC San Diego, the School of Engineering, and the Department of Computer Science condemn this bigoted and disgraceful action,” Pisano said in an email to Jacobs School students, faculty, and staff.
Pisano cited recent news coverage for bringing the incident to his attention. The Triton covered the incident earlier this month on Nov. 8. Five days later, the incident was covered by ABC 10News reporter Amanda Brandeis.
Fourth year student Raymond Arevalo, who originally shared screenshots of the study guide on his Facebook page, said that he’s encouraged by the response so far and hopes that it inspires change both now and in the future.
“I originally thought nothing would be done, since incidents like this one are usually brushed under the table. I thought people would think it’s a minor incident that doesn’t deserve too much attention,” Arevalo said. “Hopefully this will inspire other people to speak up and make change happen.”
Dean Pisano said that he has asked the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination to look into the incident. Should the perpetrator be identified, they will face appropriate sanctions.
“Such brash disrespect for fellow members of our UC San Diego community will not be ignored or tolerated and we will do everything in our power to hold those responsible to account,” Pisano wrote.
Gabe Schneider is the News Editor at The Triton.