University of St. Thomas investigates student over viral video

The University of St. Thomas has launched an investigation into a student following a viral video recorded on October 14 outside the University of Minnesota. The footage captures a confrontation during a Turning Point USA event featuring conservative activist Riley Gaines.

In the video, a student is heard directing hateful language and telling a protester to “go back to your own country.” The University of St. Thomas issued a statement noting that such language is inconsistent with its Catholic identity and values. The institution stated it is investigating the off-campus incident under its student code of conduct, which allows for discipline of off-campus behavior that affects the university community.

While local media outlets have characterized the remarks as racist, some reports note the confrontation occurred amidst shouting from protesters. Due to student privacy laws, the university has not released the identity of the student involved.