In their first interview, Kylah Spring and her mom talk about the racist on-campus attack that happened in November. They say the incident is a reminder that “racism is alive,” but add that “love is an appropriate way to fight back.”
Kylah Spring, the University of Kentucky freshman working as a desk clerk when another student targeted her with racial slurs and attempted to physically attack her, told CBS News that she has not received an apology from her alleged attacker, Sophia Rosing.
“It hurts but I’m not surprised,” Spring said.
A viral video captured the attack showing Rosing attempting to hit Spring multiple times and calling her the n-word and a “b****.”
As a Black woman, Spring told “CBS Mornings” she understood what was happening to her in that moment. Although disheartening, Spring said she understood it was critical that she remained composed even while being attacked.
“I wanted to make sure I acted appropriately so that I could keep my job because the script could have been flipped at any time if I had retaliated,” Spring said.
Rosing was arrested that night and charged with first and second offenses of alcohol intoxication in a public place, third-degree assault of a police officer, fourth-degree assault, and second-degree disorderly conduct, according to an arrest report.
Rosing pleaded not guilty to the charges and her lawyer told CBS News that Rosing currently has no comment but is enrolled in treatment. He also said Rosing will apologize at the appropriate time.