“Der Printergang” – Not Sure What to Make of This

Yeah, I saw it — derprintergang’s “Der Printergang” video:

(Also saw the same video, with different captions, on a variety of other subjects.) Students, as Nazis, concerned about University print policies and residential computer labs – I know it’s over the top, and I do get the point – ouch!

Heard the word on the street about this video throughout campus, including conversations with administrators and faculty. I refrained from replying to folk with DM and e-mail links so I could think about it before I passed it on or made comment. Don’t misread me – I’m not a killjoy; I love a good remix; I live for decent satire; I adore commentary on things going on; and, I think human around race, culture, and ethnicity, when done right, is some of the funniest stuff I’ve heard. My gut told me that this time I needed to move on.

Not sure we’re at a point where people portraying Nazis makes good satire. Reminded me of the unease I felt this summer with the Nazi commentary and remarks embedded in some conversations and demonstrations about health care. Maybe we should be over it. Maybe I’m just part of a generation that’s needlessly sensitive about these images and what they have implied – perhaps it’s time for us to grow up and appreciate humor. Is this akin to the Ego Trip videos that I enjoy? Do I need to just lighten up?

I’ll still think hard before I forward or retweet a satirical commentary that uses Nazis.

Peace.