SALISBURY, Md. – A wave of emotion swept across the Salisbury University campus Monday as dozens of people gathered for a march and vigil for unity. a violent attack it shook the community.

The rally was organized in response to the arrest of 12 students accused of committing a hate crime after allegedly beating a man because of his sexual orientation.

The incident, which occurred on October 15, caused significant distress, particularly within the university’s LGBTQ+ community.

Students, faculty and community leaders gathered on the university’s main square Monday. The vigil and march, which toured the university campus, was a demonstration of unity and resilience. Speakers included University President Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, faculty members and local advocates, who highlighted the importance of healing, inclusion and combatting hate.

“We have witnessed divisive actions, violent and hurtful actions, that are intended to undermine the sense of belonging that we work so hard to build here,” said Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, University President of Salisbury.

Organizers say Monday’s vigil was a time for reflection, healing and change at a school that will not tolerate hate.

The charges stem from an alleged attack involving 12 Salisbury University students, who were accused of beating a man unaffiliated with the university.

Police say the attack happened after one of the suspects lured the victim to an apartment through a gay dating app.

Once there, the group allegedly used derogatory language and physically assaulted the victim, leaving him with bruises and a broken rib. The victim sought medical attention for his injuries, which were significant but not life-threatening. Police say they have video evidence of the incident.

The 12 suspects, several of whom are from local areas such as Crofton, Elkridge and Olney, were arrested and charged with hate crimes.

The alleged hate crime has left many members of the LGBTQ+ community deeply hurt and anxious.

Mark DeLancey, executive director of PFLAG Salisbury, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group, expressed outrage and concern following the incident.

“When I first heard about this incident over a week ago, I felt outrage, hurt and contempt. I don’t understand how in this day and age we can be so mean to each other as human beings,” DeLancey said.

“I really think the biggest hurdle right now is that this is a slap in the face to the LGBTQ community. It’s something that strikes a nerve. It creates controversy. fear, anxiety, a feeling of lack of responsibility. It really touches the heart of an individual and who they are trying to be, when all they are trying to do is. exist,” he said.

DeLancey says Pflag will be available to offer resources and support to any student.

“They may need some time to deal with this, they may need some time to come out of it. I think each individual will have to understand what that looks like, with their group support, whether it’s teachers, family members, colleagues, it’s going to be a long road to overcome something like this,” he added.

The university has since taken action.

Dr. Lepre confirmed that the students involved have been suspended, meaning they cannot access campus and cannot participate in university classes.

Additionally, some students are members of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, which was also suspended.

Dr. Lepre also announced plans to form a task force dedicated to LGBTQ+ inclusion at Salisbury University. This initiative aims to foster a safer and more welcoming environment for all students.