UQAM co-op excludes white comedian from show because of dreadlocks

A solidarity co-operative created by the Groupe de recherches d’intérêt public at Université du Québec à Montréal has become the centre of a controversy after excluding a white comedian from two comedy shows. The comedian was excluded on account of his dreadlocks, which the co-op deems an act of cultural appropriation. While the co-op stated that it understands that he comedian’s intention was not racist, it explained that cultural appropriation is “a form of passive oppression, a deconstructive privilege and, above all, a manifestation of ordinary racism.” The co-op also issued an explanation on its Facebook page that highlighted its mission to be “a safe space, free from any link to oppression.” Montréal Gazette |Journal de Montréal |Coop Les Récoltes (Facebook) (QC)