College sexism scandal: ‘It isn’t a select few that participate in this, it’s a select few that don’t

The written apology comes after a handful of students from the University of New South Wales were captured on camera chanting about wishing women were “holes in the road” and wanting to “cream them by the dozen” on Friday.The video sparked outrage and saw more than 100 demonstrators turn out on the lawns of UNSW and form a large ‘R’ to demand ‘respect’ yesterday.An apology letter signed “Philip Baxter College Residents”, has since been issued.

This letter is a statement of apology from residents of Philip Baxter College to the community at large for conduct of a sexist and misogynistic nature,” the note read.As a College we acknowledge and understand the boundaries that we have crossed.As a College community we condemn the actions outlined within the chants and their misogynistic sentiments.

“The words pronounced are in no way an indication of the values that Philip Baxter College adheres to, but the mere fact that we have sung them is enough to tarnish the integrity of every resident.The students wrote that “bringing this issue to light has made us realise the naivety we have been clouded by for not realising the impact issues of this nature have on society”.

“As a community we are using this opportunity to reaffirm the values with which we live by and ensure that nothing of this nature is ever present within our culture again,” the letter read.We will ensure that there is an increase in education and awareness internally to make sure that our residents understand and appreciate this very prevalent societal issue.”

UNSW Student Council women’s officer Jocelyn Dracakis told news.com.au she accepted the written apology but that the behaviour was a widespread “cultural” problem.She said the demeaning chants were often excused under the guise of “tradition” and needed to be further addressed by universities in Australia.

Her sentiments were supported by dozens of people on social media who claimed they had been singing the chant “for more than 20 years” and that it “was just boys being boys”.Others described the behaviour as “nauseating” and said the underlying attitude towards women was the main problem.