Students at Binghamton University have forced the student association president to resign over an alleged joke found on his Tinder profile.
According to a Facebook post, Binghamton Student Association President Dillon Schade allegedly has the quote “If you’re a nigga, then I’m a nigga” on his Tinder profile:
In a Facebook post on the issue, Schade maintained the quote was a joke placed on his profile by an unknown party as a prank:
I want to break a few rumors out there. The main profile was mine, but the profile was altered by someone unknown and I am currently pursuing for a confession from whoever did it. The language used does not describe my demeanor, competency, and is unacceptable for any standard. This is a prime example of how someone's "joke" can impact another's life. When you see someone's Facebook still logged on or phone unlocked, think to yourself. Think hard about the implications of that description you change, person you message, or status you post.
He also “sincerely” apologized for anyone who was offended by the language.
After various students groups on campus and the editorial board of the Pipe Dream called for Schade’s resignation over the “racist” comment, Schade resigned “effective Wednesday, February 24.”
In an email obtained by MRCTV, Schade wrote:
I would hope that my resignation serves as a reminder to all students how a silly prank or anonymous comment on social media can personally scar one’s life. Please ensure that you are protecting your information and constantly monitoring what is said in the public domain. I now leave the Student Association in the hands of my fellow executive board members. It is time for the students of Binghamton University to reflect on the values of the community we live in. We live in a time when it is more important than ever that we support each other in our successes and in our challenges.
Schade has not responded to MRCTV’s request for comment.