This situation with our ND chapter is very unfortunate, for a number of reasons. First of all, it was a lame idea for a party - what's so fun about dressing up as "indians"? Second, the chapter exercised poor judgement in choosing the theme, knowing that there are some political sensitivities at the school - perhaps they meant for the theme to be tongue-in-cheek or provacative? Third, Gamma Phi Beta's Web site has had a
statement (a press release, actually)up about this for a month, apologizing for the actions of the chapter (almost shaming them) and pledging sensitivity/diversity education. The chapter was reprimanded by their IH - I'm sure they're on notice not to do something like this again. A suspention by the University seems to serve no additional purpose to me.
I do think my sister (SWTXBelle) makes a good point about something. Why do African Americans, Native Americans, Asians and whomever else think it's cool to use St. Patrick's Day, Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo and other holidays meant to celebrate a day special to specific ethnic/religious groups as a booze and costume fest, but get in a tizzy when those Irish, Catholics and Mexicans decide to "celebrate" others' cultures in the same way? I'm 100% Irish and Scottish, and I don't give a whoop if people think St. Patrick's Day is a big party - I prefer to see it as one day a year when everyone wants to be me
As for Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday, and Cinco de Mayo, I bet most people wouldn't even know what they're celebrating.
So what's my point? My point is people make up stupid excuses to party.