Administrators at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania are currently looking into a distressing incident that occurred involving two members of the college's swim team. The family of the victimized student, whose name has not been disclosed, reported that their son was targeted with a racial slur scratched onto his chest by a teammate during an informal gathering on September 6. The unnamed student responsible for writing the slur is no longer enrolled at the college, though it remains uncertain whether they were expelled or voluntarily withdrew.

The family of the targeted student has referred to the incident as a hate crime and has taken steps to address the situation beyond the college's investigation. Complaints have been filed by the family citing racial discrimination, harassment, and lack of due process with several organizations, including the N.A.A.C.P.'s Harrisburg chapter and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. Gettysburg's Chief of Police has expressed readiness to assist in the matter, although the victim has chosen not to involve law enforcement at this time.

President Robert Iuliano of Gettysburg College conveyed profound distress about the incident and emphasized the college's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The small liberal arts college, with a student body predominantly consisting of white students, is now engaging in dialogues with the affected family on how to move forward after the disturbing occurrence. The incident was originally reported by upper-class students from the swim team, shedding light on the need for continued efforts to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety and well-being of all students on campus.