MIT wristbands at SXSW party cause controversy

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (WHDH) -- A group of MIT students got a slap on the wrist for bracelets some say are offensive and raunchy.

The wristbands are causing quite a controversy on campus. They were supposed to be funny, but a lot of people aren't laughing -- including administrators at MIT.

A picture of a pair of racy wristbands went viral. They read, “That’s a nice dress. It would look great on my floor,” and “Do you wash your clothes with Windex? ‘Cause I can see myself in your pants.”

They were given out during the South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas at a party sponsored by the university's media lab.

Students call it embarrassing.

“The media lab is pretty high tech and should be ahead of the curve when it comes to these types of things,” one student said.

“I personally take it as a joke. But I understand how people wouldn't,” another student said.

Beyond campus, the wristbands have drawn national attention and criticism. The school made a public apology, releasing a statement from MIT media lab Director:

"They were offensive and in no way reflect the sentiments of the MIT Media Lab." It goes on to say, "...is firmly committed to supporting women in the sciences, computing, arts, and engineering." - Joi Ito, MIT Media Lab Director

The bracelets were provided by the venue used for the Austin party, according to MIT. Students say the decision to hand them out sounds like an oversight.

“I think in general MIT has a good spirit and so it has to be light hearted,” a student said.