The Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and Alpha Phi sorority at UCLA held a “Kanye Western”-themed party on Tuesday night, which many students found racist and appropriative of black culture. Some students reportedly wore blackface to the party.
Students at the party “dressed in baggy clothes, plumped lips and padded bottoms, or as ‘Kardashians,’” according to student newspaper the Daily Bruin. The LA Times got a similar report from a student, reporting that some guests were “wearing gold and had soot on their faces,” while others “wore large fake butts” in imitation of Kim Kardashian.
The university issued a statement about the party, saying they were looking into the incident. Students reportedly protested Thursday afternoon.
“We remind students that while they are free to celebrate in ways that draw on popular culture, their specific choices can cause harm and pain to fellow members of their community,” the statement said. “Put simply: Just because you can do something does not mean you should.”
Unfortunately, incidents like this are all too common at colleges around the country. Let’s all agree to take an extra minute to think through our party themes going forward!