A century-old statue on University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s campus was toppled over Monday (Aug. 20) by a crowd of about 250 demonstraters.
According to ABC News, the statue known as “Silent Sam” was taken down at about 9 PM by a group urging school officials to remove the monument. A few demonstrators reportedly carried anti-white supremacy banners, while others shouted: “hey, hey, ho, ho, this racist statue has got to go.”
UNC Chancellor Carol Folt didn’t approve of the toppling of the statue but understood how polarizing it is.
“The monument has been divisive for years, and its presence has been a source of frustration for many people not only on our campus but throughout the community,” Folt said. “However, last night’s actions were unlawful and dangerous, and we are very fortunate that no one was injured.”
Police are investigating the incident and “assessing the full extent of the damage.” They also report no one was injured during the protest.
When news Silent Sam had been removed, one student was elated. “I heard the statue had come down, so I had to see it myself. … I think most people here are happy. I’m ecstatic,” Manuel Ricardo, said.
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