Obama effigy found hanging in a noose at UK this morning

This morning, UK students found a likeness of Barack Obama hanging by noose from a tree just off Rose Street along the walkway to W.T. Young Library. 

The effigy was taken down by 9am and both UK and Lexington police are investigating the case and have also notified federal agencies.

KFTC has no stance with respect to the candidates for president, but we also refuse to stand by as hatred is allowed to be displayed like this and thinly-veiled threats of violence made, harking back to a time of open racism and hangings of African Americans.

UK President Lee Todd issued an email to all students faculty and staff shortly thereafter

Unfortunately, this morning an effigy of Senator Barack Obama was discovered hanging in a tree on campus. I am personally offended and deeply embarrassed by this disgusting episode. This is not reasonable political expression; it is just malicious. And it is unacceptable.

On behalf of the University of Kentucky I apologize to Senator Obama and his family. I will personally assure them that this is not who we are as a University or as a state.

As President of the University of Kentucky, I feel outraged and hurt. I am outraged because we work very hard, every day, to build bridges across the divides. Diversity and inclusion are among our most precious core values. Episodes like this serve only to erode our confidence in and respect for one another.

Regardless of your political opinions or the candidates you support, a University such as ours must be a place where spirited discussion can take place, but within the bounds of civility, common sense, and respect for the views and feelings of others. We have insisted - and we will continue to insist - that we as a University and as a state rise above hatred and acts of malice or ignorance. The line separating civil discourse from unacceptable behavior has been crossed, constituting a clear violation of the University's code of ethics, and possibly constituting criminal acts, which would also violate University regulations. Such acts will not be tolerated. Those found responsible will be subject to the full force of university, state, and federal rules and regulations.

There is an on-going investigation into this incident, which includes federal authorities. If you have any information that would assist in this investigation you have a responsibility to contact the UK Police Department (257-1616).

Tonight at 7pm at UK's Memorial Hall there will be a vigil in response to the hanging of the Obama effigy.  UK KFTC members will attend and one of them will speak at the event.  Please come if you can.

News links:

UK Kentucky Kernel

WKYT, Channel 27

Courier Journal

Associated Press