Students at Syracuse University organized a forum with administrators Monday night to talk about a recent assault report that they say reveals long-standing systemic issues at the university.

It all started at a party on Ackerman Avenue. Syracuse police say men were assaulted by two white people.

According to students, the victims were black, and a racist slur was used by one of the suspects who was also carrying a pistol. The Chief Diversity Officer at the university backed up the students who say the assault was racially charged, but admitted Syracuse Police are overseeing the investigation.

Another student alleged that a Department of Public Safety officer called one student "slappy" and said something about protecting "blue lives." The chief of DPS didn't confirm those details but promised to look into it, saying all officers wear body cameras and the footage would be reviewed. 

Students are hoping for tangible changes. 

"It was just not taken seriously. It was just like 'dumb students.' And that's how a lot of situations on this campus, dealing with students of color, that's how they go. And we're tired of it. We want to feel safe too," said the Students of African American Society President.

"We’re hoping to walk away with some actual steps to create change. We're looking to have conversation and dialogue with all members of the administration. Chancellor Syverud is here today so we're hoping to hunker down on the issues," said Student Association Student Life Co-Chair Jalen Nash.

We reached out to Syracuse Police and they reiterated that they didn't find that the assault was racially motivated.