Video footage from a Community Education Council District 3 meeting held on February 10 has brought attention to racially inappropriate comments made by participant Allyson Friedman while students were giving their testimonies. This incident has prompted reviews and actions at various institutional levels, including a formal investigation by Hunter College and responses from the district’s leadership.
In the recorded clip, Friedman interjected during a student’s testimony from the Community Action School, which visibly shocked other attendees on the Zoom call. During the meeting, a moderator addressed Friedman directly, urging her to stop her remarks. Following the meeting, she issued an apology via the chat, describing her comments as a “Zoom mishap.”
Identified as a parent of a Center School student and an associate professor at Hunter College, Friedman’s comments generated outrage among attendees. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman Sigal condemned the remarks as “outrageous” and inappropriate for any civic dialogue. Dr. Reginald Higgins, the interim superintendent of the district, also denounced the statements as “racially offensive and rooted in anti-Blackness,” highlighting the harm caused to a predominantly Black and Latinx school community.
The meeting’s agenda focused on the potential closure or relocation of several schools on the Upper West Side, creating an environment charged with community concerns and emotional investment from families. The distress caused by Friedman’s comments led to calls from attendees during the meeting for her to cease speaking. Following the incident, Dr. Higgins indicated plans for district-level remedies and acknowledged the targeted harm to Black students and families.
In light of the incident, Hunter College has confirmed that it will review the situation in accordance with the university’s conduct and nondiscrimination policies, characterizing Friedman’s remarks as “abhorrent.” Additionally, CEC District 3 has scheduled a meeting for March 3 to discuss and vote on a formal statement regarding the incident, which will take place at the Joan of Arc Building.
The immediate repercussions of this episode are significant, as the remarks were made during a critical moment when students were sharing their experiences. Dr. Higgins emphasized the need for changes to ensure safety and inclusivity during such discussions, including training for parent leaders on Zoom features to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Looking ahead, the key next steps are clear: Hunter College’s review process is underway, and CEC District 3 is set for public discussions and decisions regarding the incident. The district also plans to enhance engagement with Black families and implement training for parents, thereby reinforcing their commitment to fostering a supportive environment.
This incident has sparked swift institutional responses, highlighting the importance of maintaining safe and respectful spaces for all community members, particularly during student-centered discussions. The actions being taken by both Hunter College and district officials reflect a dedication to addressing the issues raised and ensuring the welfare of all students in the community.