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An 18-year-old University of Mississippi freshman has issued a public apology following the viral spread of doorbell camera footage showing her making monkey noises and gestures outside an apartment occupied by three Black students. According to TheGrio, the incident occurred on November 6 and prompted significant national attention over the weekend as the video circulated across social media platforms.
Alaina Kunes released a statement through her attorney on Tuesday, November 10, acknowledging that her actions caused harm to the residents. In her statement, Kunes claimed she had never met the women before the incident and said she was unaware of their race. She described her behavior as "insensitive, inappropriate, and deeply harmful," and stated she would never intentionally direct such gestures toward a person of color.
The incident has reignited conversations about racism at predominantly white universities and the historical context of comparing Black people to animals. The video shows two individuals making the offensive noises and gestures as three women walk past the apartment door. TheGrio reports that the widespread reaction highlighted the serious nature of such racist behavior and its impact on students of color.
Kunes also addressed the consequences her family has faced, noting they received death threats and harassment following the video’s release. She expressed gratitude to authorities for their efforts to ensure family safety and requested privacy.
The University of Mississippi confirmed that its investigation into the matter remains ongoing. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Shawnboda Mead issued a statement condemning the behavior and reaffirming that racism has no place on campus. According to Action News 5, Kunes is no longer a student at the university, though the institution has not clarified whether she withdrew voluntarily or was removed as a result of the investigation.
The University of Mississippi, like many predominantly white institutions, has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding the experiences and safety of Black students on campus. Racist incidents at such schools have prompted broader discussions about institutional accountability and campus culture.
Sources and attribution
- TheGrio
- Ole Miss Investigating After 2 White Students Caught on Doorbell Cam Making Racist Gestures Outside Black Students’ Apartment
- University of Mississippi officials condemn alleged racist taunts in viral doorbell video, launch investigation
- Woman apologizes after racist gestures caught on camera outside Ole Miss students' apartment
- Ole Miss co-ed releases apology after viral video of alleged racist taunts
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