The irresponsible and impulsive action of two students of University of Florida has caused embarrassment to the college community and the fraternity they belonged to.
Two Beta Theta Pi brothers who blackfaced their skin and went to a fraternity party dressed in a style meant to represent African-Americans have sparked a controversy which is not showing signs of quelling any time soon.
Blackface, a style of makeup used in 19th century theater productions to stereotype and caricaturize African-Americans, is seen as an offensive practice today.
As Orlando Sentinel reports:
"On Thursday and Friday, social media sites were abuzz with news of the event as students and others passed around a photo showing two Beta Theta Pi members wearing 'blackface' and donning thick gold chains, baseball caps and pants that hang so low they show their boxer shorts."
Apparently, the theme of the fraternity Halloween party was "rock stars and rappers," and was held at a venue downtown.
"We recognize that what they did is hurtful and perpetuates racist stereotypes of African Americans," UF spokeswoman Janine Sikes said.
"We work very hard to create a welcoming environment for all of our students regardless of race or ethnic background."
Beta Theta Pi president, 21-year-old Ethan McMahon, issued a statement echoing the disappointment expressed by the fraternity's national headquarters.
"As an organization, we pride ourselves on the considerable diversity of our membership and are disappointed in the poor judgement and actions of two of our members," he said.
"While their actions were not intended with any malice or ill will to any members of our community, clearly they were offensive, and we accept full responsibility accordingly."
In the same public statement, he apologised to the community.
"Our brothers' actions were wrong - as was the inaction of our other chapter members for not stopping it - and we are truly, truly sorry."
He also said that the option of taking judicial action against the two offenders is not ruled out.
