Quote:
Originally Posted by sigmadiva
I think the fundamental question is: Why is that historically white GLOs use racial / ethnic stereotypes to promote their events? Why can't you just have the event? Can't the event you are having stand on its own merit without trying to use a cultural identifier?
Besides, what do queso and maracas have to do with raising money for a worthy cause?
What is y'all's obsession with (ethnic) theme parties?  |
I assume, Dr. Phil, this is the question you do not believe was sufficiently answered. In the context of this particular event, I think the relevant question would be- is the serving of nachos and a picture of maracas the use of "racial/ethnic stereotypes"? I can't speak for everyone who has posted, but I am confident that certainly the majority would agree that using racial/ethnic stereotypes is indeed not necessary, and I know that eliminating stupid, racist themes is something they would support and many are actively striving to do in their roles as advisers and officers. There's no one that I can see who is planting his/her flag on that particular hill.
The issue of ethnicity becomes a little more cloudy - is it okay to use an Italian flag to promote a spaghetti supper? A shamrock for a St. Patrick's day fundraiser? I think it is possible to use symbols associated with themes without them being offensive, with the caveat that all symbols must be analyzed in terms of how they represent the culture. So, using a Frito Bandito-type caricature to publicize a nacho sale? OFFENSIVE. Using a picture of maracas or, let's say
, a piñata? Not offensive, because they don't have a negative connotation.
As to "what do queso and maracas have to do with raising money" - the selling of nachos is as relevant as having a car wash, or a bake sale, or serving pancakes, or any of the other many ways groups raise funds.
Threaded Mode
