More than 850 students partied with the InterFraternity Council, Panhellenic Council and BiCultural InterGreek Council last night at the Student Planning and Events Committee's first of two "Breaking Down the Walls" parties. The event, which was held in the Annenberg Quad and was free for all students, was highlighted by a performance by the band Tantra and music from disc jockey Rob Lee. The four organizations planned the party in an effort to combat discrimination, racism and bigotry among students at the University, according to IFC Judicial Manager and party Co-Director Josh Gottheimer. "For a non-alcoholic event on a Thursday night, we're excited about the way it turned out," the College junior said. He explained that the IFC, Panhel and Big-C approached SPEC last spring with the idea of bringing together students from a variety of backgrounds in a relaxed, social environment. The Undergraduate Assembly agreed to fund the events. "We wanted to break down the walls of stereotypes of different races and lifestyles in an accepting atmosphere," Gottheimer said. "One of our large goals is to promote a more social environment, not a forum -- rather, a fun, relaxed evening. "I think that 'Breaking Down the Walls' reflects that theme," he added. Big-C President Trista Bridges said she views racism as a major problem at the University. "Some students' fear creates problems for people of color," the Wharton senior said. "They aren't perceived as students on Penn's campus, rather as a part of the surrounding community. "Unfortunately, some of the University's attempts to combat racism are not always feasible," Bridges added. "The University needs to promote more understanding before students can work together." College senior and SPEC President Nelson Telemaco said the University must work to break down a variety of walls, including racial divisions and stereotypes about fraternities. "Greek life is not all about getting drunk at fraternity parties," Telemaco said. He added that he feels the University does a better job than many other campuses in dealing with prejudice and discrimination. "We're trying to make life at Penn as comfortable as possible," he explained. Wharton senior and Panhel President Lissette Calderon said that social events sometimes overshadow other important aspects of the Greek system such as community service. "The Greek system is all-encompassing," Calderon said. College sophomore and SPEC Concert Committee member Beth Lewis said she thought the event was not only entertaining but also valuable in helping to unify the community. "I really think this is a great effort to bring the different groups together and have a good time," she said. Last night's event lasted from 9:30 p.m. until 1 a.m.
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