A “Kanye Western” themed mixer was held by two primarily white fraternity and a sorority at UCLA on Tuesday, during ‘Black Bruin Welcome Week’. This careless theme has put UCLA under scrutiny, fueling the (already raging) fire concerned with cultural appropriation.
Party–goers reportedly wore blackface makeup to the party, dressing up with stuffed buttocks, drawn on plumped lips, sagging pants– stereotypical black ‘costumes’.
Blackface is one of the most derogatory practices in black history, dating back to minstrel shows in the 19th century. These minstrel shows were disgustingly racist and degrading, as white men would wear ‘blackface’ makeup in order to mock black culture, many times African Americans would even be onstage in cages.
Giving the benefit of the doubt, maybe these students were unaware. Maybe the theme was a joke. Just dressing up like the famous couple of Kim and Kanye. Innocent. It’s not about race.
The sad thing is, it’s not a joke anymore.
It’s not funny.
There have been too many jokes like this.
Race cannot be ignored when it is still a very real factor in oppression and prejudice in our country today.
But how is a Kanye-themed party any different than any themed party regarding a white celebrity? Look at the circumstances.
The costumes for the Kanye party represent a history of injustice and perpetuate racist stereotypes. Dressing “ghetto” is not a costume. It is real life.
White people cannot dress in “costume” and be cool in the same style that is “too ethnic” for people of color. The same style emulated at the party is the style that is worn by those who are oppressed in our society today.
Maybe it was an innocent mistake. A simple joke that was taken too far?
That doesn't work anymore.
Ignorance is not an excuse anymore. Pay attention.
‘Cultural appropriation’ is a hot pop culture topic this year, fueled by controversies over Kylie Jenner’s cosmetic changes, the Nicki Minaj- Taylor Swift feud, Miley Cyrus’s contentious wardrobe and hair styles, and Giuliana Rancic’s remarks about Zendaya’s dreadlocks, to name a few.
We are reminded time and time again to be more aware of the implications of our fashion choices, our Halloween costumes, and our lingo.
CULTURE IS NOT A COSTUME.
The theme can probably just be blamed on a bad, nonsensical joke. A horrible misunderstanding. But we have to start paying attention.
Bottom line, it comes down to respect and empathy.
Be respectful of other cultures.
Be empathetic towards others’ struggles.
Be better.
