"Crampus" editors defend publication

"Crampus" editors defend publication

A publication in the satirical "Crampus" newspaper provoked a significant backlash and student criticism. This is coverage of a panel where the three editors of the Crampus heard the criticisms of their publications and tried to justify their actions. The publication that caused so much controversy was a picture of Bob Marley smoking marijuana, with the caption "official endorsement". Students explained how this was a mockery/trivialization of "Jamaican religion, people, and culture", as well as spoke to the newspaper's broader trend of stereotyping and alienation under the guise of satire. Critics felt that The Crampus staff should have consulted student organizations that took offense to the image prior to publishing. The Crampus editor Jeff Bushell '94 responded:"'It is not fair to expect us... to consult' every single group that might possibly be offended by a particular article".

Volume 91, Number 9

Greg Lewicki

The Campus

11/5/1992

Jeff Bushell '94- Editor in Chief of The Crampus
Matt Goebel '94- Associate Editor of The Crampus
Sid Williamson '94- Associate Editor of The Crampus
Rachel Allen '93- panelist participant
Carolyn Ramos '93- panelist participant
Christian Parker '93- panelist participant
Arlinda Ardister- Associate Dean of Students

"Carolyn Ramos '93 criticized The Crampus for a perceived lack of tolerance. 'You need to fine-tune yourselves... especially in terms of tolerance...you are creating an [intolerant] environment.'"

"Christian Parker '93 spoke on the issue of stereotypes. 'What you have written with the intent of parodying [has served] to reinforce stereotypes... you should avoid attacking individual organizations'"

"Arlinda Ardister, Associate Dean of Students... also contributed to the dialogue. 'When people in power make jokes about the people without power it's funny to the [powerful] but not to the [powerless]... you really can't disagree with the way that someone feels... I don't feel that you are listening to what people say they're experiencing."