Racist Sorority Photo: Penn State Chi Omega Derogatory Mexican-Themed Party Photo Sparks Viral Outrage [PHOTO]

Reports confirm that school officials are currently investigating the Chi Omega sorority chapter at Penn State after a rather racist photo from the all-female student association's Mexican-themed party sparked a viral uproar of criticism. The offensive image shows members of the Nu Gamma Chapter of Chi Omega wearing colorful ponchos, sombreros, and fake finger moustaches - with some of the women holding up signs that read :Will Mow Lawn For Weed + Beer" and "I Don't Cut Grass, I Smoke It." Although the Nu Gamma Chapter Head has since issued an official apology, Penn State leaders including Greek Life Director Dr Roy Baker are currently discussing potential punishments for the sorority members, including possible suspension.

The racist photo was first spotted and reposted by the popular blog website Onward State. After the image went viral and the Penn State sorority began receiving much negative backlash, officials were able to discover the girls' identities through tags on Facebook.

The viral picture stirred much outrage throughout the campus and beyond -especially those members of the university prominent in the Latin culture. The vice president of the Mexican American Student Association at Penn State Cesar Sanchez insists that the stereotypes are very "offensive" and "untrue."

The president of the sorority chapter Jessica Riccardi recently released this public statement of apology:

"Our chapter of Chi Omega sincerely apologizes for portraying inappropriate and untrue stereotypes. The picture in question does not support any of Chi Omega's values or reflect what the organization aspires to be."

Whitney Heckathorne, Director of Communications for Chi Omega, Whitney Heckathorne told MailOnline via email that such behavior was counter-intuitive to the organization's principles and beliefs:

"Chi Omega believes that dignity, self-esteem, and respect are inalienable rights of each individual and neither endorses nor condones behavior that violates our organization's policy on human dignity or the basic tenets of our Sisterhood.

The Fraternity believes that personal degradation has no place in our organization, even if such behavior is meant facetiously or in jest.

"Chi Omega expects its members to share and promote the belief that self-respect, esteem, and a respect for others are necessary ingredients for healthy relationships."