Howard University Severs Ties with Sean “Diddy” Combs Following Assault Video Revelation. Howard University has taken a decisive stance against hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, rescinding his honorary degree and cutting all financial ties after a video surfaced showing him assaulting his ex-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie. This move comes in light of growing public and institutional intolerance towards violence and abuse, emphasizing the university’s commitment to its core values.
The university’s Board of Trustees announced the decision on June 9, 2024, following the release of a 2016 video that depicts Combs attacking Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel hallway. The board stated that Combs’ actions, as captured in the video, were fundamentally incompatible with the values of Howard University.
“Mr. Combs’ behavior as captured in a recently released video is so fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs that he is deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor,”
read the university’s statement.
In addition to revoking the honorary degree awarded to Combs in 2014, the Board has also instructed administrators to return a $1 million contribution from Combs and end the scholarship program funded by him. This decision also includes the dissolution of a 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation.
“This acceptance revokes all honors and privileges associated with the degree. Accordingly, the Board has directed that his name be removed from all documents listing honorary degree recipients of Howard University,” the statement continued.
Howard University reaffirms its commitment to opposing domestic violence by rescinding Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree and cutting financial ties. The university emphasizes that actions contrary to its core values are unacceptable.
The move to cut ties with Combs comes after CNN released a video last month showing the 2016 assault. In response to the footage, Combs issued a public apology via social media, admitting to the assault and expressing deep regret for his actions.
“I take full responsibility for my actions in that video,” Combs stated. “I was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now. I went and I sought out professional help. I got into going to therapy, going to rehab. I had to ask God for his mercy and grace. I’m so sorry. But I’m committed to be a better man each and every day. I’m not asking for forgiveness. I’m truly sorry.”
The video is part of a series of allegations and revelations against Combs, which have surfaced over the past months. Last year, Cassie, whose legal name is Cassandra Ventura, filed a lawsuit against Combs alleging years of sexual abuse and other forms of violence. This lawsuit was settled out of court.
Howard University’s decision to sever ties with Combs has been met with mixed reactions. Some applaud the university for taking a strong stand against violence and upholding its values. Others question the timing and express concerns about the implications for philanthropic contributions to educational institutions.
The incident highlights the broader issue of accountability and the need for institutions to take clear stances on issues of violence and abuse. As more survivors come forward with their stories, organizations are increasingly faced with the challenge of balancing past affiliations and contributions against current actions and values.
The university’s action is seen as a significant statement in support of survivors and a firm stand against unacceptable behavior, reinforcing the message that no amount of fame or philanthropy can excuse violence.
This development has garnered widespread attention and sparked discussions about the responsibilities of educational institutions in promoting and protecting their core values. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and that institutions must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing issues of abuse and violence within their communities.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings