Talk about pathetic political correctness and overblown response….
OH’ CANADA – The University of Regina is responding after a photo depicting some members of the school’s cheerleading team posing in stereotypical “cowboys and Indians” costumes sparked outrage over the web.
Some of the women in the Instagram picture are wearing plaid shirts and cowboy hats, while others have feathers, headbands and braids in their hair and dresses that are made to look like they’re made from animal skin.
University of Regina President Vianne Timmons issued a written release Sunday acknowledging that the team was part of a social event Friday evening that included “culturally inappropriate themes and costumes.”
Her statement went on to say that the team’s coach has apologized.
“Further steps will require that the team’s coaches and team members discuss this matter as a group with the university’s Executive Lead on Indigenization and take cultural sensitivity training,” Timmons’s statement said. “Once these discussions have taken place, the university will determine whether further disciplinary actions are required.”
Kinesiology Dean Harold Riemer also expressed his apologies on behalf of the university Sunday afternoon.
“I have told them actually that it was wrong,” said Riemer. “The university’s code of conduct for students, faculty and staff is that we treat everyone, regardless of their status, or minority group … with respect, and we behave in a responsible manner so that everyone who lives and works on this campus feels comfortable and welcome. That’s the university policy.
“If you’re a student here, you’re a staff member here, you’re a faculty member here, when you compete with University of Regina’s name on your jersey, that’s your obligation,” he continued. (read more)
