The University of British Columbia (UBC) is currently investigating a professor who posted a controversial comment on social media following the recent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump.
According to sources, the professor, who has not been named, shared a post on their personal Facebook account that read “So close, too bad” in response to news of the failed assassination attempt on Trump during a rally in Florida.
The post quickly gained attention and sparked outrage among students and faculty members at UBC. Many called for the professor to be reprimanded for their insensitive and inappropriate comment.
In a statement, UBC President Santa Ono expressed his disappointment and stated that the university does not condone any form of violence or hate speech. He also confirmed that an investigation is underway and appropriate action will be taken once all the facts have been gathered.
The incident has also sparked a larger conversation about the role of social media in academic institutions and the responsibility of professors to maintain a professional and respectful online presence.
Some students have expressed concern about the impact of the professor’s comment on their learning environment and have called for stricter guidelines on social media use for faculty members.
This is not the first time UBC has faced controversy surrounding social media use by its faculty members. In 2018, a professor was suspended for using a racial slur in a lecture, which was recorded and shared on social media.
The university has yet to release any further information about the ongoing investigation, but it is clear that this incident has raised important questions about the boundaries of free speech and the responsibility of educators in the digital age.
As the investigation continues, it is important for all members of the academic community to reflect on the impact of their words and actions, both online and offline. UBC has a responsibility to uphold its values of diversity, inclusion, and respect, and it is crucial that all members of the university community uphold these values in their conduct.
