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A couple of thoughts. First and foremost, I of course do not think that the decision these particular Pikes made was intelligent, respectful, or right in any way.
However. I can't figure out if they were being intentionally disrespectful in their attempt at humor, if they were just moronically ignorant about the implications.
I know that they should know. I realize that this is an important facet of the history of music/film/comedy/Black history/etc. And I would be surprised if these guys hadn't been in at least one high school or college basic history class that mentioned what blackface was, what it represented, and how people (black and white) felt about it.
But the thing is, some people don't want to know. Some people are so ignorant about tons of different cultures, and their particular subcultures and pop cultures, that it is plausable to consider that maybe these guys were like that.
I know this sounds ridiculous. But think of this way- if you're, say, a white guy who has been raised to believe that, to some degree, blacks or other minorities are inferior- then do you pay that much attention during black history month? I'm positive that there are people who may or may not acknowledge that they have racist tendencies- but still disregard information that contradicts their world view, and/or discusses things they feel are inferior.
Which is not to say that their own ignorance excuses their actions. If we followed that precedent then there's a whole bunch of people who wouldn't be in jail right now. But I think there's a chance that these are the type of guys who zone out during parts of classes that they aren't interested in, memorizing what you need for the test and then totally spacing on it two days later. Hell, we all do that to some degree. But it frustrates me that stupid people do stupid things that contribute to racism and the perception of racism- I mean crap, it is 2004, and this is such pointless behavior.
I don't think they should get kicked off campus or in legal trouble- it's true, they have the right to be as insulting as they want. But the University has a right to protect the mental well being of its students, and provide them with a place to learn where they will be respected. I definitely think that some extreme diversity awareness training should be mandatory for these guys.
Anyway, that's my 2 cents.
Corina
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