Mac engineering group suspended

McMaster University has suspended a student group known as the ‘Redsuits’ over a songbook that contains lyrics so violent and offensive,they will not be repeated in this story.

The 35 page book titled ‘Engineering Cheers’ contains lyrics to more than 2 dozen chants. And some of the lyrics are deeply disturbing.

There are references to bestiality, rape, and physical violence among other things. There is even a disclaimer before one of the songs called ‘The S&M Man’ that warns readers it is offensive and contains references to child mutilation and murderous incest.

As they begin to investigate the book, the University has suspended all activities by the Redsuits which are the spirit organization within the McMaster Engineering Society. The Redsuits are no longer allowed to participate in any on campus events or welcome week activities. McMaster V.P. Of Academics, David Wilkinson, says they were made aware of the book just a few days ago by someone in the McMaster community. He calls the cheers ‘antithetical to the University’s values’: “I was obviously very upset somewhat saddened that a small number of students in our community would engage in an activity that will tarnish the reputation of the university as a whole. The Redsuits are the spirit organization within the engineering society. They wear red jumsuits that identifies them and they do a lot of positive things. But unfortunately there is this one element that has come to light that we need to address very clearly and very forcefully.”

There are also sanctions against any McMaster Engineering Society activities that include alcohol. Tuesday, the society released a statement that says in part the cheer book was compiled years ago by a small number of engineering students.

This book is not, and has never been, distributed or endorsed by the McMaster Engineering Society (MES). The content unequivocally opposes what the MES represents.

The Executive team will work tirelessly with the University until our valued services and programs can be reinstated for the benefit of our students.