Letter Confronts 'Offensive' Music in Cafeteria

The cafeteria will play only WEMC due to survey results and a letter from students and parents, according to Jude Martin, Food Service Director.

Students commented on the performance survey for the cafeteria that the mainstream radio being played in the cafeteria was "offensive" and "not in line with EMU's Christian values."

A letter recently submitted to Martin was signed by 10 to 15 parents and students and asked that the cafeteria change its music selection. "I got tired of always listening to the same music," said first-year Lars Akerson. "I didn't appreciate the messages behind the music."

A prospective parent who was with Akerson commented on the music in the letter, stating that "the music is not representative of EMU's values and what the university stands for." Akerson and the other participating students have gotten both positive and negative feedback from their peers.

"WEMC is a happy medium. It is either that or nothing," said Martin. Martin thought that it would be better to change the music before the administration got involved. "It's hard to keep everyone happy, but we want to reduce the complaints," said Martin.

Students have had mixed reactions to the change in music. "I love it!" said first-year J'aime Mims.

"I didn't think it was that big of a deal. I didn't mind listening to it," said first-year Hannah Yoder. "I'm surprised that people didn't complain sooner, especially since I'm sure conferences and the older people who eat here after church probably didn't appreciate it."

"I like that kind of music, but not for a cafeteria," said junior Katie King, commenting on the change to WEMC. "It ruins the mood." Junior Michael Stauffer recommended playing oldies or classic rock as an alternative to WEMC.

Sophomore Gideon Abasontey said that it makes sense to support the school's radio station on campus. "It's good to get a chance to listen to WEMC since it's the school's radio station. You're only here a little bit. You can listen to whatever you want outside of the caf."