Posters display culture not sexism By the West Indian Student Association This Wespeak is addressed to the person or persons who defaced the flyers advertising “Log On”, a West Indian Student Association (WISA) sponsored event. The words “Degrading to women” and “Sexist” were only some of the comments found scrawled on our flyers. As members of WISA, we were greatly disheartened that an individual would choose to express their disapproval of our flyers and as a result our heritage in such a hostile and cavalier way. In an environment of learning and tolerance such as what is supposed to be found here at Wesleyan, attacks such as these should never occur. We feel that the person or persons who vandalized the posters did not fully grasp the meaning behind the dancing men and women featured on the flyer. As West Indians, music and fashion play an integral part in our culture. The Dance hall is a place where many West Indians go to socialize, like any other gathering place found in the United States; for example a club. The outfits and dancing positions present in our poster, which you may have interpreted as offensive, are actually a fundamental aspect of our musical expression in these dance halls where Soca, Dancehall and/or Reggae music is played. The people on the flyer were merely at a party, having fun. While we agree that the women on our flyer were scantily clad, so are many women who choose to go to clubs or parties in the US or in any other country. What women choose to wear is inevitably a form of expression, a decision that only they can make, regardless of whether you find it degrading or not. While we respect those views, we would have appreciated if these opinions had been raised in a more appropriate and approachable manner. So that the issue of sexism could have been addressed successfully. If the individual or individuals would like to discuss their feelings, they are more than welcome to come to a WISA General Meeting which takes place every other Sunday at 7:30 p.m. in the Malcolm X house basement.

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