It’s the first day of classes at Skidmore College, and many students are kicking off the new semester by calling for an end to racism.

What You Need To Know

  • Skidmore College students presented a list of 19 demands that they believe would create a better environment for students of color

  • The demands include a zero tolerance policy for racism, regular anti-racism training, and a ban on having a city police presence on campus

  • A spokesperson for the college says they are "aware of the students' concerns and will continue to address them through ongoing community dialogue"


“No one on this campus should be wondering how this administration plans to protect, if at all,” senior Adia Cullors said.

She says she has always felt unsafe and neglected at the Saratoga Springs college. Cullors is one of many students demanding for the culture of racism on campus to stop immediately.
 
“We don’t have time, not when it’s our lives and safety on the line,” Cullors said

She and many other students organized a protest on Monday to call for change to begin the new school year. They presented a list of 19 demands that they believe would create a better environment for students of color.

“It’s about transformative healing work for Black and Indigenous people of color, and trying to cultivate a sense of community that isn’t here on campus,” said Malchijah Hoskins, a junior and organizer.

The students brought the demands directly to college President Marc Conner by marching from Skidmore's campus to his home. The demands including a zero tolerance policy for racism, regular anti-racism training, and a ban on having a city police presence on campus.

“We are not forgetting about this,” senior Amao Omer said. “This is not a one-day thing, and we are going to keep reminding you of this.”

In a statement, a Skidmore spokesperson said Conner supports the peaceful protest.

“We are also aware of the students' concerns and will continue to address them through ongoing community dialogue,” said Sara Miga, the associate director of Media Relations and Strategic Communications.

“We expect tangible action and we will hold you accountable,” Cullors said.