As a student-run organization focused on community, social justice and belonging, we express our fear for current and prospective Gonzaga University students who come from diverse backgrounds and deserve not only to survive, but to find home in this environment.
The lack of transparency, acknowledgment, and immediate action to address the events we experienced does not fully reflect the commitment outlined in the Gonzaga University mission statement. Given the circumstances and concern over student safety and belonging in this community, we are severely disappointed with the timing and substance of the university’s response.
After an exhausting wait, we received and carefully read the campus-wide email from the Office of the President addressing these events. While we appreciate the acknowledgment, we were disappointed to see that it did not include clear accountability for the ongoing failures within the Gonzaga community. These failures exist whether there is an anonymous app in use or not. They exist in classrooms, community spaces, and residence halls. Through Fizz, the student body was exposed to expressions of Gonzaga campus culture that extend beyond what is formally communicated on campus tours or in promotional materials. For many students, including international, first generation, and other underrepresented populations, this reflected realities that are too often experienced but less often acknowledged.
The “racially insensitive comments, including anti-Black sentiment” outlined in the campus-wide email does not fully capture the seriousness and pain of racist slurs, derogatory language, offensive stereotypes, and violent rumors and threats that directly violate the dignity and safety of students, staff, and faculty of color and our allies.
We acknowledge the efforts to remove the anonymous platform where much of this activity occurred. However, these issues extend beyond a single app. Our concerns are not new, and they are not isolated. They reflect broader cultural challenges that require sustained attention and partnership to address effectively.
Our Black Student Union leadership remains hopeful for a direct response and to begin personal engagement and an ongoing conversation with university administration to address safety concerns and outline meaningful next steps. We are committed to working collaboratively toward solutions that strengthen accountability, transparency, and belonging for all students.
Our intent is not to divide, but to ensure that the values outlined in Gonzaga University’s mission are fully realized in practice. We are proud of who we are, and that includes being part of the Gonzaga community. We believe that together this university can continue to grow into a place where every student feels respected, protected and valued.
Follow-up statement after publishing
In light of the recent article titled “’Don’t be deceived’: Gonzaga student speaks out after incidents following BSU Harlem Renaissance event” published by The Black Lens, we would like to clarify that the views expressed in that interview do not represent the official position of the Gonzaga University Black Student Union Board.
We recognize that individuals may have differing personal perspectives and experiences. However, our previously released statements reflect the collective position of our current leadership and was developed through thoughtful discussion and shared concern for student safety, accountability, and campus climate.
Our commitment remains the same. We are focused on ensuring that Black students and other underrepresented communities feel respected, protected, and supported on this campus. We remain committed to engaging in constructive dialogue with university administration and for advocating for meaningful, sustained culture change.
We will continue to move forward with clarity, unity, and purpose.