In the early hours of March 17, an individual was badly beaten outside of a nightclub in Greenville. According to law enforcement, the suspects are all white; the victim is black.

This type of crime immediately calls race relations to mind, and considering the many reports of tension between law enforcement and African-Americans across the country, it can cause even more problems. Some people begin to question whether law enforcement should be trusted to correct these crimes.

However, East Carolina University got out ahead of the incident with a message of providing a safe campus for everyone — students, visitors, parents and the community.

“We are appalled at this incident. We will not tolerate violence in our community or on our campus. We want the perpetrators to be brought to justice and will continue to work in every way we can to assist with the investigation and with the process of delivering justice,” stated an ECU News Services press release.

The release cautioned the public about jumping to conclusions, stating that there is no confirmation of a racially charged crime. That by itself is a fair response. If there is one thing with which the news business can relate, it’s the rule to never assume, no matter what it looks like. As the old journalistic saying goes, “If your mother says she loves you, check it out.”

But in the interest of proactivity, the ECU also took a clear stance against racial violence and acts of hate. The university’s response was a perfect balance: avoiding assumptions but also getting in front of a bad situation.

It serves as a good reminder to Beaufort County residents, as well. There is no place for discrimination, and in today’s world, it helps to have open support for equality.

“… We also want to take this opportunity to condemn and reject race-based acts of hate and violence. There is no place for that at East Carolina. Those on our campus who might commit such acts can expect the fullest measure of prosecution, and if they are students face consequences through our student conduct process,” the release said.

It’s important for everyone in Beaufort County to take a play from ECU’s playbook and use all opportunities to make the point: everyone deserves equal treatment, no matter their differences.