University of Maryland Tennis Club issues public apology after racist imagery sparks backlash 

The University of Maryland tennis club issued a public apology after distributing tournament materials containing racist imagery, according to CBS Baltimore.

The flyer, sent to visiting teams including Howard University, featured graphics resembling Ku Klux Klan hoods. The club posted its apology and said it “deeply regretted” sharing the image. It also said the symbol’s hateful history caused pain across multiple communities.

“Last weekend, our club shared an abhorrent image which was included in a tournament program and distributed to teams from the visiting universities,” the team said in a statement posted to its Instagram page.

“We deeply regret sharing this image and the pain this caused as a result of our actions.”

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UMD officials previously apologized for the same graphic. They suspended the entire tennis club after the image was discovered by Recreation and Wellness staff.

Howard University Called for Stronger Accountability Measures

Howard University’s tennis club said the initial response fell short. The team requested a public apology, sensitivity training and a donation of tournament funds to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Howard also asked for a formal investigation into who created the document and why the racist imagery was included. The team said the incident required more than a private apology because the harm extended beyond those who received the email.

UMD’s tennis club said it recognized the symbol’s significance and accepted responsibility for failing to remove it before distribution.

University Suspends Club and Opens Multiple Investigations

UMD suspended the entire tennis club indefinitely. Officials said only a few members were involved, but the suspension was necessary while the Office of Student Conduct investigates.

The university also referred the matter to campus police and the Office of Civil Rights & Sexual Misconduct. Staff met with visiting teams and provided support during the fallout.

UMD President Darryll J. Pines condemned the imagery as “deeply harmful and offensive.” He said the university is committed to repairing harm and educating students about racism and hate symbols.

Club Says It Will Pursue Training and Accountability

In its public statement, the tennis club said it would engage in education about the history and impact of racist symbols. It apologized to visiting teams in person and by email. The club said a public apology was necessary because the harm extended beyond the tournament.

The club added that it did not intend to share an image evoking hate. However, it said intent does not excuse the failure to identify and remove the graphic.

Community Reaction Continues

The incident prompted widespread criticism from students and community members. Some said the apology and suspension were appropriate. Others argued that deeper accountability was needed to prevent similar incidents.

The university said it will continue working with campus partners and Howard University to address the harm and ensure cultural sensitivity training is implemented.