Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Amherst Defends Graphic Orientation Skits After Video Prompts Student Complaints

College officials call the long-running skits a sexual-respect program, with video from one outlet prompting student complaints.

Overview

  • Footage published by the Washington Free Beacon shows performers mimicking sex acts and tossing condoms during Amherst’s “Voices of the Class” orientation event.
  • Named students quoted in coverage said the presentation was disturbing and described feeling urged to attend as first-years.
  • The performance is described in reports as sanctioned and funded by the college and said to draw on excerpts from incoming students’ admissions essays.
  • Director of health and wellbeing Amanda Vann defended the skits as promoting sexual health, communication, harm reduction and respect, noting the program’s roughly 25-year run.
  • Current reporting relies on limited-source video and student accounts, and there have been no announced policy changes or disciplinary actions.