Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud has signed a list of student demands — making three edits in 19 requests.

Demands were compiled by students in the #NotAgainSU sit-in protest and representing the international student community. Students began to speak out against racism and bigotry after a series of incidents over the last two weeks, beginning with racist graffiti discovered in a bathroom stall of a residence hall.

Protesters demanded Syverud sign their list of demands in its entirety as written, or resign. Protesters also called for resignations from the campus chief of police and vice chancellor for enrollment and student experience.

The school also announced this morning that classes will continue this week. There are no classes next week for Thanksgiving break.

Syverud said in message to the campus community that he signed the list in response to hearing concerns and working with university leadership “in good faith -- to support the thoughtful, forward-thinking and constructive solutions offered by many of our students.”

The university posted along with the message a signed memorandum, a document with three red-line edits. The chancellor also signed an agreement with representatives from the international student community.

Syverud described the revisions he made as “required to comply with law or because of the need for Board of Trustees approval.”

The legal requirements appear to include the removal of “identities” as a factor that could be considered for roommate selection. Early during protests, the students’ list suggested a “same race" option during roommate selection.

Syverud’s revision includes a note that the status of tenured professors’ training in diversity can only be publicly shared “up to the extent of the law.” He adds a commitment to make diversity training a requirement for tenure.

Syverud also adds to one item that he will “strongly urge” the Board of Trustees to meet with students twice a year and communicate monthly.

The list, first published by protesters a week ago and since edited, includes the following requests:

Punishment, including expulsion, for any student involved in racist incidents including perpetrators and bystanders.

Updated, mandatory diversity education for incoming students and for all newly hired faculty and staff.

Clearer policy against hate speech.

Housing options for students to live in multicultural living communities, with roommate options “based on mutual interests and identities.”

More counselors, who better represent the student body including counselors who can speak languages native to students.

Dedicated space for multicultural affairs offices and organizations focused on students of color.

Additional financial aid for students of color.

$1 million for a revamped curriculum that addresses racism.

Syverud met with students and community members at a forum Wednesday night.

A representative for the #NotAgainSU group said participating students felt Syverud had not met their demands, including a deadline set for signing the list.

After a contentious interaction, in which protesters wearing black walked out chanting “sign or resign," Syverud appeared to reconsider whether he could sign.

Later in the forum, as more students spoke, he responded that he agreed with 98% of the demands, and would be open to signing as a symbol of his support.

“I’m sorry I misunderstood why the signature was so important," Syverud said.

In his message to the campus community, posted after midnight Thursday, he said would continue conversations with students. He planned to meet with Jewish students in the morning.

“Implementing these recommendations is the right thing to do,” Syverud said. “They will make our community stronger.”

26 Syracuse University students protest racism, hate crimes through #NotAgainSU movement

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government, education and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992

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