Lambda Theta Delta (LTD), the largest and oldest Asian American fraternity at
Lambda Theta Delta (LTD), the largest and oldest Asian American fraternity at UC Irvine, is under fire after members produced a music video inspired by the Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z collaboration, “Suit and Tie.” In the video, four young men dressed in suits and white shades are seen dancing and lip-synching to the hit single. One of them plays Jay-Z. In blackface.
The video was created as promotion for the fraternity’s annual “installs” event, which celebrates the entrance of new brothers. It was posted on YouTube with the disclaimer: “No racism intended. All fun and laughter.” But many students didn’t laugh. Instead, controversy and outrage ensued.
It’s causing quite a controversy!
LTD has apologized for the blackface video, calling it “extremely racist” and “incredibly offensive.”
UCI’s Asian Pacific Student Association has also condemned the video, calling the use of blackface “blatantly ignorant.”
Members of the school’s Black Student Union believe the fraternity members’ actions highlight an anti-black campus climate, and point to a 2011 incident where a UCI dining hall served fried chicken and waffles on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Yesterday, they did a teach-in blasting LTD and mentioning other anti-black incidents on campus:
UC Irvine Chancellor Michael Drake has released a response to the video parody, stating that the university is taking steps to identify the individuals involved and provide comfort and support to those who were offended. He announced that an investigation is underway, and “appropriate action” will follow.
Disciplinary action? Is that necessary? What do you think? An apology?