Oxford University's under-21 rugby squad has been thrust into a storm of controversy following two separate events that critics describe as racist and antisemitic. At the heart of the furore is an 'African-themed' party, dubbed 'the Safari Bop', where players wore blackface and loincloths, and an invitation to a 'bring a fit Jew party' that saw students encouraged to dress up as Orthodox Jews.
Images from the parties have sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning how such incidents could occur at Oxford, one of Britain's most prestigious universities. The Union of Jewish Students in the UK expressed its dismay, stating it was "appalled" by the resurgence of anti-Semitic stereotypes among supposedly educated students. In response to mounting pressure, university proctors have ordered a student responsible for the 'bring a fit Jew party' email invitation to issue a public apology to the university's Jewish community and students.
Oxford University Student Union (OUSU) had initially asked organisers to change the theme of the African-themed event, but some players allegedly proceeded with the party at a curry house. Phil Boon, captain of the under-21 team, downplayed the concerns, suggesting that 'blacking up' was merely part of the Safari Bop's theme and that some Jewish girls had accepted invitations.
While university proctors have concluded that initial reports were "exaggerated" and no regulations were breached, the incidents have led to a special cultural diversity seminar being mandated for early next term. The seminar will be delivered by the university's equality and diversity unit, with Rabbi Aaron Katchen, Oxford's Jewish chaplain, welcoming its appropriateness in addressing diversity issues.
Wes Streeting, then president of the National Union of Students, condemned the actions, stating that those responsible must "realise the mistakes they have made" and how their behaviour undermines efforts to promote diversity within the university. The incident has left many questioning whether such events can be prevented in future without stricter measures being put in place.