Black Lives Matter Protesters Make Presence Known At EMU's Nationally Televised Game
YPSILANTI (WWJ) - Eastern Michigan University beat Wyoming 27-24 Friday night, but a larger story loomed just beyond the football field.
Black Lives Matter protesters chanted throughout the nationally broadcast game - standing just outside of the entrance to the field -- protesting days after racial graffiti was found on campus.
#BLM student protest at Eastern Michigan University remains peaceful. Security keeping them away from field. pic.twitter.com/EN5OimGCqG
— John Schriffen (@JohnSchriffen) September 24, 2016
Graffiti was discovered Tuesday on the Ypsilanti campus. It included the letters "KKK" — an apparent reference to the Ku Klux Klan — and another message including a racial epithet.
Eastern Michigan President James Smith said in a statement that the university "strongly condemns such a racist and thoughtless act." Smith adds that he hopes nearby security cameras will provide evidence.
The graffiti was removed.
Arm in arm, #BlackLivesMatter protesters take field after #EasternMichigan game. This after racist graffiti found on campus earlier in week. pic.twitter.com/ZYIUSTWhTb
— Ben Hutchison (@Ben__Hutchison) September 24, 2016
As protesters neared the field, EMU President James Smith, reportedly gave permission for the student protesters to take the field post-game.
Chanting, "No justice, no peace" the students peacefully walked arm-in-arm onto the field and dispersed shortly after.