Mon Feb 23 04:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Hunter College Professor Faces Scrutiny After Racist Remarks on Hot Mic
The Story:
A professor at Hunter College, Allyson Friedman, is under review after making racially charged comments during a public Community Education Council meeting on February 10, 2026. The meeting addressed a controversial proposal by Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration to close or relocate several public schools on Manhattan’s West Side. While a Black student spoke in defense of her school, Professor Friedman, attending virtually as a parent, was caught on a hot mic saying, “They’re too dumb to know they’re in a bad school.”
The professor’s comments didn’t stop there. She followed with a statement alluding to racial stereotypes, saying, “If you train a Black person well enough, they’ll know to use the back. You don’t have to tell them anymore.” This remark appeared to reference a quote by Carter G. Woodson, previously mentioned in the meeting, about the impact of making someone feel like an outcast. Hunter College announced on Sunday, February 22, 2026, that it would investigate whether these “abhorrent remarks” violated the institution’s policies.
Key Points:
- The incident occurred on February 10, 2026, during a Community Education Council meeting.
- Allyson Friedman, an associate professor at Hunter College, made the remarks.
- The comments were made while the professor believed her microphone was off.
- The remarks were directed at a Black student speaking in defense of her school.
- Hunter College has launched a review of the incident.
Critical Analysis:
The provided related historical context does not reveal significant patterns or strategic depth related to this event. The context includes unrelated news items, such as an NBA YoungBoy feud, Netflix reviews, and Hulu series reviews. Therefore, a critical analysis is not applicable.
Key Takeaways:
- This incident highlights the persistent issue of racial bias, even in academic settings.
- The reliance on stereotypes reinforces harmful prejudices.
- The use of a “hot mic” underscores the importance of being mindful of one’s words, even in private settings.
- Universities are under increasing pressure to address and condemn racist behavior within their institutions.
Impact Analysis:
The incident has the potential to significantly impact Professor Friedman’s career at Hunter College, depending on the outcome of the university’s review. More broadly, this event contributes to the ongoing national conversation about race, equity, and inclusion in education. It may also influence public discourse on accountability for racist remarks and the consequences for those who make them. The incident could lead to further scrutiny of hiring practices and institutional cultures at universities, pushing for greater diversity and inclusivity.
First Piper 