College Student Apologizes After Viral Doorbell Prank Sparks Racial Backlash
University of Mississippi student Alaina Kunes apologizes after viral TikTok video led to accusations of racism.
2 min read
Alaina Kunes, an 18-year-old University of Mississippi student, has apologized and withdrawn from college after being accused of racism following a viral TikTok video of her and friends acting like monkeys outside a black student’s apartment. The video, which has amassed nearly 13 million views, sparked widespread backlash and accusations of racial insensitivity.
Apology and Withdrawal
Kunes issued an apology, stating she was unaware of the resident’s race and acknowledged her actions were ‘insensitive, inappropriate, and deeply harmful.’ Despite her claims, she reportedly dropped out of college amid harassment and death threats. ‘I ask for privacy for my family. I understand the seriousness of this situation and remain committed to taking responsibility and learning from this embarrassing ordeal,’ her statement read.
University Response
University of Mississippi Vice Chancellor Shawnboda Mead confirmed an investigation is ongoing and that support was offered to those affected. ‘Our staff have reached out to the students directly impacted to offer support, listen to their concerns, and connect them with available resources,’ Mead said.
Public Reaction
Reactions on X were mixed, with some questioning the severity of the punishment. ‘What’s the crime, exactly?’ one user asked. Others criticized the racial disparity in how the incident was handled. ‘Shamelessly ruining a young woman’s life over some monkey sounds. Just proving memes correct,’ another user wrote.
Student Perspectives
Three black students, including Jakiyra Metcalf, who posted the video, appeared on ‘CBS Mornings’ to discuss the incident. Metcalf stated the group had approached the targeted apartment and apologized, with one girl admitting they had targeted only one door. ‘I had said that I don’t think they should go around, even if they did go to other people’s doors and do that,’ said Victoria G. Johnson, another student.
Community and Family Response
Johnson’s mother, Chiquita Lao, called for accountability and voiced her belief that Kunes should be held responsible. ‘I want people to be mindful of their actions but I also want people who would potentially experience the same situations to speak out and don’t let things be swept under the rug,’ she said.
Source: Daily Wire
