Hunter College Professor Apologizes for Racist Remarks at NYC School Meeting

Allyson Friedman made offensive comments during a virtual Community Education Council meeting that were captured on video and went viral.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Allyson Friedman, a professor at Hunter College, has apologized after a viral video captured her making racist remarks during a February 10 virtual meeting of New York City's School District 3 Community Education Council. Hunter College confirmed it is reviewing the situation under its applicable conduct and nondiscrimination policies.

Why it matters

The incident has drawn widespread attention and criticism, highlighting concerns about racism and discrimination in educational settings. As a professor at a prominent public university, Friedman's comments have raised questions about accountability and the need for inclusive environments in academia.

The details

During the virtual meeting, an eighth-grade student from the Community Action School was speaking about not wanting to lose her school, which was under consideration for possible relocation or closure by the Department of Education. As the student spoke, a voice identified as Friedman's was heard saying: "They're too dumb to know they're in a bad school. If you train a Black person well enough, they'll know to use the back. You don't have to tell them anymore." Participants on the Zoom call reacted with shock and disgust at the comments.

  • The incident occurred during a February 10, 2026 virtual meeting of New York City's School District 3 Community Education Council.

The players

Allyson Friedman

A professor at Hunter College who made racist remarks during the virtual school meeting.

Hunter College

The public university where Friedman is a professor, which is reviewing the situation under its applicable conduct and nondiscrimination policies.

Community Action School

An Upper West Side school whose eighth-grade student was speaking at the meeting when Friedman made her remarks.

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What they’re saying

“My remarks were not directed at the student speaker, and they do not reflect my beliefs or values. Regardless of context, my words were wrong and caused real harm. I take full responsibility for their impact, and I am deeply sorry to the students, families, educators, and community members who were hurt.”

— Allyson Friedman, Hunter College Professor (Newsweek)

“Even as these remarks were made in the individual's role as a private citizen and we understand that the district is conducting an investigation into the matter, Hunter College is reviewing the situation under the university's applicable conduct and nondiscrimination policies.”

— Peter Englot, Senior Vice President of Communications and External Affairs, Hunter College (Newsweek)

What’s next

Hunter College has stated it is reviewing the situation under its applicable conduct and nondiscrimination policies, and the school district is also conducting an investigation into the matter.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater accountability and a commitment to inclusive, anti-racist practices in educational institutions, even among those in positions of authority and influence. It underscores the harm that can be caused by discriminatory remarks, even when made in a private capacity, and the importance of swift and meaningful action to address such issues.