During a public meeting about potential school closures in Manhattan’s Upper West Side on February 10, Hunter College Associate Professor Allyson Friedman faced backlash after her comments were perceived as racially charged. The incident occurred while a black eighth-grade student was discussing the possible shutdown of her school via a Zoom call. Friedman's controversial remarks were inadvertently broadcasted to all attendees, prompting immediate shock and disapproval.
The meeting, organized by the New York City School District 3 Community Education Council (CEC3), was convened to address proposals that could result in the closure or relocation of several local schools. These included the Community Action School, the Manhattan School for Children, and the Center School. Amidst discussions on systemic racism and educational equity, Friedman was heard saying, “They’re too dumb to know they’re in a bad school. If you train a Black person well enough, they’ll know to use the back. You don’t have to tell them anymore.”
Attendees at the meeting, both in person and online, reacted with visible shock. Video evidence from the event shows some individuals covering their faces, while others fell momentarily silent before the conversation continued. One participant was heard admonishing Friedman: “Allyson Friedman, what you’re saying is absolutely hearable here. You’ve got to stop.”
Friedman later clarified her intent, explaining that the comments were part of a private discussion with her child, also present at the meeting, about systemic racism, referencing historical examples. In her apology, Friedman expressed remorse for the impact of her words, stating they were not directed at the student speaker and did not reflect her beliefs or values.
Hunter College is conducting a review of the incident under its conduct and nondiscrimination policies. Senior Vice President Peter Englot emphasized the expectation that community members' actions and words align with the college's identity and values.
The incident has provoked responses from public officials and advocacy groups. Rita Joseph, City Council Education Chair, condemned the remarks as "blatantly racist and harmful" and indicative of deeper issues of systemic racism within the New York City public school system. Ken Samuels, Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, reiterated that racism is unacceptable and that education council meetings should be respectful environments.
The episode has highlighted the ongoing challenges public schools face in fostering inclusive environments and preserving community trust, especially during administrative decision-making processes like school closures. The reactions of educators, parents, and advocacy groups underscore the importance of addressing racism in the school community and the need for collective responsibility in confronting it.
