Providence College Students Stage Sit-in, Cite Campus Racism

PROVIDENCE, R.I. ― Students at a Catholic college in Rhode Island are occupying the president’s office over allegations of racism on campus.

At least 20 Providence College students sat in the office of the Rev. Brian Shanley on Tuesday and plan to stay until he signs an agreement of commitment.

The students say Shanley hasn’t responded to a list of demands they presented to the school’s administration in December.

Associate Vice President Steven Maurano tells the Providence Journal that Shanley can’t sign the group’s agreement because some of the demands, such as curriculum changes, cannot be made without a discussion with faculty.

Providence College officials aren’t allowing media on campus.

About 75 to 100 Providence College students staged a demonstration in November calling on Shanley to address racism on campus.