Andover officials are evaluating the system for reporting discrimination and hate speech after an increase in incidents on the Phillips Academy campus.
Last week, the Andover Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission took to social media to condemn the incidents, which include drivers and passengers in passing cars yelling at students walking on campus. The rash of occurrences comes at a time when the DEI is working on plans and programs to improve how Andover responds to hate speech and other discriminatory behavior.
“The incidents and lack of mechanisms to report similar incidents is not a good look for the Town,” DEI Commission Co-Chair Rajiv Chopra said in an email.
Chopra said the commission is looking for help in launching the Andover Incident Report, or AIR, Program, which would make it easier for people to report harassment. The Commission also has instructions for reporting incidents on its Website.
Phillips spokesperson Tracy Sweet confirmed the increase in hate speech incidents on campus.
“There were several incidents that we brought to the town’s attention, and we appreciate their responsiveness and commitment to addressing these issues,” she said.