An Oregon State University student charged with a hate crime still holds a position in student government. But a recall vote is underway, that ends Friday night. KLCC’s Brian Bull reports.
Andrew Oswalt is accused of placing racist stickers on the cars of activists last June. He’s also a representative of the Associated Students of OSU. If two-thirds of student voters approve his recall, Oswalt will lose his seat.
Lauren Sluss is editor of the campus newspaper, The Barometer. Her latest editorial asks students to act on their values…noting that just 12 percent of the student body voted last election. She sees the recall vote as more a referendum on racism on campus, noting a truck with anti-Semitic and racist signs has shown up supporting Oswalt this week.
“At first it was a little disheartening to see people who have very oppressive, exclusive views and values," Sluss tells KLCC.
"To counter though, it’s been very cool to witness so many people who stand very opposed to these beliefs and will take action and let their voices be heard, and let people know who have exclusionary views that they will not be tolerated on campus.”
Oswalt is also running for re-election. He remains free on bond and has been allowed back on campus since his arraignment.
Copyright 2018, KLCC.
Copyright 2018 KLCC