Students React to Controversial Orientation Performance at Amherst College

At Amherst College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Massachusetts, some students expressed their discomfort over an orientation event they described as “disgusting.” During the performance, participants mimicked sexual acts and tossed condoms into the audience like they were confetti.

A video captured from the event revealed first-year students pretending to engage in sexual activities, complete with loud moans and movements beneath blankets, as part of an annual tradition.

Junior Isabella Niemi shared her distress, stating she nearly left the performance after just ten minutes. “I’m typically not one to skip events, but I was so uncomfortable that it was hard to stay,” she recounted.

This explicit performance, titled “Voices of the Class,” is officially supported and funded by the $92,400-a-year private college. It is said to incorporate elements from the admissions essays of the participating freshmen.

The college defended the skit, claiming it has continually aimed to foster sexual respect on campus. “The skit is part of a broader commitment to promoting well-being and sexual respect,” emphasized Amanda Vann, the director of health and human services at the school.

Vann explained, “We want to encourage discussions on sexual health and communication, even if they’re challenging. By addressing these topics in an engaging way, skits can help students build necessary skills to support themselves and each other, contributing to a healthier community.”

She noted that this performance has been held for 25 years. However, some students feel the show has crossed a line. “While I get that Amherst College wants to break down sexual taboos, this is over the top,” remarked junior John Collier. “The way it’s presented feels like it’s being forced upon us, which is counterproductive.”