Ole Miss launches probe after doorbell camera captures racist gestures

The University of Mississippi opened an investigation on November 9 after a video circulated online showing two female students making monkey sounds and gestures near a residential building. The incident has drawn immediate condemnation from school leaders who described the behavior as deeply troubling.

The footage, captured by a Ring doorbell camera, was posted by a resident whose daughter is a freshman. According to local reporting, the daughter lives with two Black roommates in the apartment complex. The video quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting a formal review by the university.

The incident follows a pattern of recent scrutiny on the campus. In 2026, the university has faced increased attention regarding student conduct and inclusivity. This latest event adds to the pressure on administrators to demonstrate that the school is actively managing its community standards.

A university spokesperson stated that the appropriate offices are actively investigating the incident. The spokesperson noted that the conduct shown in the video is offensive and unacceptable. They emphasized that the university is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all members of the community.

Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Shawnboda Mead addressed the campus in a message posted on the university website. She stated that the behavior does not reflect the university's values or the type of community they strive to build. Mead said staff have reached out to the affected students and will continue to support them as the process moves forward.

Mead acknowledged that the incident has caused hurt and concern among students. She urged the community to be thoughtful about sharing information online because one student was incorrectly identified as involved. She confirmed that no members of the university's sorority community were part of the incident.

The university cited the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, which protects student conduct cases and records. The spokesperson explained that this law limits the details the school can disclose about any potential disciplinary action. The investigation remains ongoing as the university follows its established processes.