Hunter College Professor Placed on Leave After 'Abhorrent' Zoom Remarks

Allyson Friedman's comments during a public school meeting sparked outrage and an investigation by the university.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A Hunter College associate professor has been placed on leave after making controversial remarks during a New York City public school district meeting that were described as 'abhorrent' and 'racially offensive.' Allyson Friedman's comments, made while a student was speaking, referenced racist tropes and were condemned by the school, the local education council, and the NYC Schools Chancellor.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions around discussions of systemic racism, especially within educational institutions. It raises questions about the appropriate way for educators to address these sensitive topics, as well as the consequences for making insensitive or harmful remarks, even if unintentional.

The details

During a virtual meeting of the NYC District 3 Community Education Council, Friedman, who was attending as a parent, made comments referencing racist stereotypes while a student was speaking against the potential closing of her school. Friedman later apologized, saying her remarks were taken out of context and did not reflect her actual views, but the university has placed her on leave pending an investigation.

  • On February 10, 2026, Friedman made the controversial remarks during the CEC3 meeting.
  • On February 27, 2026, Hunter College announced that Friedman has been placed on leave while the university investigates the incident.

The players

Allyson Friedman

An associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Hunter College.

Nancy Cantor

The president of Hunter College.

Kamar Samuels

The New York City Public Schools Chancellor.

CEC3

The NYC District 3 Community Education Council, which condemned Friedman's remarks as 'racially offensive.'

Reginald Higgins

The District 3 interim acting superintendent, who had quoted the Black scholar Carter G. Woodson earlier in the meeting.

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What they’re saying

“They're just too dumb to know they're in a bad school. … Apparently Martin Luther King said it. Like if you train a Black person well enough, they'll know to use the back, you don't have to tell them anymore.”

— Allyson Friedman, Associate Professor, Hunter College (mycentraloregon.com)

“What you're saying is absolutely hearable here, you've got to stop.”

— Unidentified Attendee (mycentraloregon.com)

“This painful incident unfolded at a meeting where Black History Month was being celebrated and the pernicious and enduring effects of anti-Black systemic racism were being discussed, especially with regard to the role of educational institutions in addressing them.”

— Nancy Cantor, President, Hunter College (mycentraloregon.com)

“It was abhorrent to listen to. And our students deserve so much better.”

— Kamar Samuels, NYC Schools Chancellor (mycentraloregon.com)

What’s next

Hunter College is reviewing the situation under the university's applicable conduct and nondiscrimination policies, and will decide on Friedman's future employment status pending the investigation.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges educational institutions face in addressing systemic racism and creating inclusive environments for all students. It underscores the need for greater sensitivity, accountability, and thoughtful dialogue when discussing these complex issues.