Hunter College – Allyson Friedman

Summary

On February 10, 2026, Allyson Friedman, an associate professor at Hunter College, made racially offensive remarks that were inadvertently broadcast during a virtual Community Education Council meeting in New York City. An eighth‑grade student was speaking about concerns that her school might close due to low enrollment and budget issues when Friedman said, “They’re too dumb to know they’re in a bad school.” She then added, “If you train a Black person well enough, they’ll know to use the back, you don’t have to tell them anymore,” before another attendee interjected to stop her from speaking, indicating her microphone was live.

In the days that followed, Friedman said her full remarks had been part of an attempt to explain the concept of systemic racism to her own child and that she thought she was muted when she spoke. She said her complete comments made clear the views attributed to her were not her own nor directed at any student or group. Other participants and observers noted that her “use the back” comment appeared to echo imagery from segregation such as back entrances or sitting in the back of buses, a symbol historically used to reinforce racial hierarchy and exclusion.

On February 25, 2026, Hunter College announced that Friedman had been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation under the school’s conduct and nondiscrimination policies. The college president described the remarks as abhorrent, said the situation was being reviewed, and noted that counseling services were available for members of the college community who may need support. Many parents, students, and community members condemned the remarks as racist and harmful, especially since they occurred while a student was sharing concerns about her school’s future, and called for accountability, while Friedman issued an apology acknowledging that her words were wrong and caused harm.