University of Richmond investigates possible hate crime

RICHMOND - Police at the University of Richmond are investigating the simulated lynching of a miniature black doll.

Walter Schoen, chairman of the university's department of theater and dance, found the doll in a small studio theater on March 6, the day before spring break.

He said the black-faced doll with black woven-wool hair was hanging from a coiled noose with a note beneath it reading: "Art is dead, long live art."

Schoen described the elf-like character as a Christmas decoration that has been around for about two years. He said the figure had become a good-luck charm.

Schoen said the simulated lynching sent a clear message. He said, "There is no escaping what it stands for."

University spokesman Brian Eckart said the investigation is continuing.