University of Denver Chancellor Believe Fake Mustaches on Cinco de Mayo is “Offensive”

From Campus Reform:

“As we celebrate, some of us may—unintentionally I would hope—choose activities that ‘appropriate’ specific cultures,” Liliana Rodriguez, Vice Chancellor of Campus Life and Inclusive Excellence, wrote Thursday in a campus-wide email obtained by Campus Reform. “To be clear, cultural appropriation is when people adopt or use aspects of a culture when they are not members of that culture. This is a controversial thing…”

“No, it is not illegal, nor is it a violation of some specific university policy. But it is disrespectful. It is an extension of racism. It is dehumanizing and insulting to many. It is not kind,” she contends. “To see sombreros, fake mustaches, or other exploitive symbols against my heritage culture is offensive.

“As an ally, I also am offended by all the variety of ways that other cultures are appropriated throughout the year—for Halloween and other themed parties,” she adds, asking, “Must someone’s heritage be disrespected for others’ entertainment?”

Photo by Nino.Modugno

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