Behavior at event violated student code
Editor,
I am writing concerning an incident which occurred at the most recent “Poetry and a Beverage.” The event in question happened at the conclusion of the performing band’s final set.
After noting the small size of their audience, the band spoke concerning their concluding song and its certainty to offend those in a larger audience. They proceeded with the song having admitted its near surety to cause offense.
What followed was a rhythmic succession of expletives occurring in such frequency that their presence rendered all of the other lyrics unrecognizable. The profanity expressed in those few minutes was more representative of a junior high school locker room than that of an institute of higher education. Had the lyrics of their final number been printed on the pages of the Statesman, this column would be flooded with letters opposing them.
Some may suggest that those offended need not attend such activities. My responsibilities for the evening required my presence. Sadly, I cannot say as much for those whom I invited to accompany me to what I believed to be an evening free of insult.
The performers acted irresponsibly in their presentation of this material in such a setting. Article II, section 1:Responsibility, of the student code states: “All interactions with faculty members, staff members, and other students shall be conducted with courtesy, civility, decency, and a concern for personal dignity.”
This occurrence was not only in violation of the student code, but also demonstrated further irresponsibility of the performers. The song in question was not included in the set list that was approved by ASUSU. Additionally, the band was supposed to end their performance by 11:30PM, but played two more songs after their deadline. Had the performers respected this, the song in question would have never been played. These facts only confirm their tendency toward defiance of university regulations.
The performers, based on these acts of irresponsibility, should be prohibited from future performances at university sponsored activities. ASUSU should also do all in their power to ensure that future activities are void from such profanity.
David Bradshaw