On Sept. 14, the Tribune ran the article, “Gert’s Event Conflicts With SSMU Equity Policy,” which detailed the recent confusion over Coyote Ugly 2.0, a Gert’s-hosted party themed after the eponymously named romantic comedy.  The article stated that, “Concerns that the women were being sexually objectified almost resulted in the event’s cancellation.  Instead, the event has been postponed and will include male dancers as well.”  For clarification and transparency, SSMU Equity would like to add some commentary:

Neither SSMU’s Equity Officers nor the Student Equity Committee has found the event description of Coyote Ugly 2.0 to be at odds with the Equity Policy, nor was there any real consideration on SSMU’s part in cancelling the event.  An individual presented concerns of possible sexism at Coyote Ugly; unfortunately, a miscommunication resulted in the organizers cancelling the Facebook event before a decision had been made.  The concerns of all parties have since been resolved, as Coyote Ugly’s organizers have clarified that the inclusion of male dancers has been part of their event programming from the start.

Equity takes a sex-positive stance.  A provocative event is not necessarily sexist.  The presence of both male and female dancers also reduces possible heteronormativity and widens the audience for Coyote Ugly.  Additionally, Gert’s administration has since consulted Equity in order to develop strategies to ensure that both dancers and party goers are safe at all times.

It is important to note that Equity has no power to cancel, censure, or unilaterally change any group or event at SSMU—such responsibilities lie with SSMU Council.  Equity is an advisory body and an education and resource centre.  We are not here to dictate what students may or may not do, but rather to provide people with the information they need to make our school a safer, more equitable place.

Cassandra Zawilski is SSMU’s Equity Commissioner and a U3 Psychology, Social Studies of Medicine, and Canadian Ethnic and Racial Studies student.  She can be reached at [email protected].  

Ryan Thom is SSMU’s Equity Outreach Coordinator and a U2 Social Work student.  He can be reached at [email protected].  Both will be attending Coyote Ugly as participants and observers.