As an elementary school student, I frequently sat at the kitchen table and glared at my homework. For hours, I would look at it, hoping it would complete itself. As the afternoon turned into evening, and evening turned into bedtime, my homework would still reflect back at me, uncompleted. I would whine and complain, begging my mother to let me go and play videogames, but her answer was always the same: “you have made your bed, and now you have to lie in it.” For months, President Donald Trump has publicly dismissed the significance of COVID-19. He has repeatedly claimed that the virus is “completely under control.” On Sept. 29, in the hectic debate between President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden, the commander-in-chief mocked Biden for wearing a mask, saying, “I don’t wear face masks like him. Every time you see him he’s got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away...and he shows up with the biggest mask I’ve ever seen.” Two days later, President Trump announced on Twitter he and first lady Melania Trump had contracted the potentially fatal virus. Since it made landfall in the U.S., COVID-19 has been largely ignored by many Republican figureheads. Senator Ted Cruz, Senator Thom Tillis, and the President sit atop a list of politicians who have been unwilling to admit the severity of the current pandemic, and have been spotted ignoring local public health requirements. Donald Trump refused to wear a mask in public on numerous occasions, and was first photographed wearing one on Sept. 12, nearly nine months after the first American case of the coronavirus. On July 12, Ted Cruz was photographed on a commercial airline maskless, despite the company’s policies. Thom Tillis was seen at the Republican National Convention amidst a sizable crowd without a face covering. As Republicans attempt to move swiftly into a Supreme Court confirmation hearing, they are met with a challenge. Three GOP senators present for the announcement of Amy Coney Barrett’s selection for the court have tested positive, along with several other public figures in attendance. The largely maskless and jubilant event could prove to be pivotal in both the immediate and long-term future of the nation. The indefinite absence of Thom Tillis, Ron Johnson, and Mike Lee means that Republicans have temporarily lost the majority necessary to push Barrett into the Supreme Court. Unlike the House of Representatives, which adjusted its rules to allow for remote voting, the Senate requires all lawmakers to be physically present to cast a vote. The election, now less than a month away, presents a fast approaching deadline for Republicans. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has made it clear Barrett’s nomination is his top priority; however, he is now faced with an increasingly daunting task. On Saturday, Oct. 3, McConnell announced the Senate would be taking a two-week recess in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 on Capitol Hill. The Senate Judiciary Committee will still proceed to consider Amy Coney Barrett on Oct. 12, but a final vote is now reliant on timely recoveries of Tillis, Lee, and Johnson. According to Senate Minority Leader Charles Shumer, the “irresponsible” and “dangerous” hearing is against the will of the people, and the well-being of their representatives. Republicans will now sit and cross their fingers, hoping the next few weeks go uninterrupted, but a risk of failure is certainly present. They have made their bed, and now they will have to lie in it.
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University of California Admissions Scandal Niamh Moore | Staff Writer On Sept. 22, the California State Audit released documents that revealed inappropriate acceptances by four University of California (UC) institutions. Over the past six years, UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, and UC Santa Barbara have admitted a total of 64 under-qualified students based on donations and insider connections, according to the documents. The California State Audit’s investigation alleged that UC Berkeley admitted 42 freshman applicants who had connections to large donors and university staff. Of those 42 applicants, 13 of them were admitted to UC Berkeley’s sports teams. Also according to the audit, 22 of the 64 total students inappropriately admitted to one of the four UC schools were put on athletic teams, even though they showed little to no athletic ability. The audit report shows excerpts of an anonymous UC Berkeley coach’s emails. The families and teams involved have likewise been kept anonymous. In an email sent from the assistant coach to the recruiting agent, the coach states, “if the [family] is willing to establish their legacy with Berkeley and [the sports team] very soon involving the figures you suggested, we’ve already established specific short term & long term needs of the program.” Elaine M. Howle, the California State Auditor, wrote a letter to Governor Newsom and the state legislators about the findings of “improper acceptance.” The letter stated that her office had found that thousands of students that applied to these four campuses were not being admitted fairly. Howle also said that both UC Berkeley and UCLA did not have “methodologies” in place to determine student acceptance, and that their staff were not properly trained to view applications. The University of California is a system of 10 campuses, five medical centers and
three affiliated national laboratories. The Office of the President, located in Oakland CA, is the University’s headquarters. In the letter, Howle directly attributed many of the UC admission mishaps to irresponsibility on the part of the Office of the President (UCOP), which supports all 10 UC campuses through funding and various
that the individuals involved would be “disciplined” and that the issues brought up in the audit report would be “swiftly addressed” by the universities involved. The California State Audit Committee has recommended that all students admitted into any of these four UC campuses for sports must have their athletic ability and donation records checked by multiple people rather
The University of California, Los Angeles, admissions building, Murphy Hall, sits dormant during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2020, in Los Angeles, Calif. (Michael Goldsmith / The Corsair)
programs. “The Office of the President has allowed the weaknesses in these practices to persist... although [the UCOP] conducted an internal review of Admissions processes after the recent nationwide college admission scandal, the Office of The President relied heavily on campuses to review themselves,” said Howle. In March 2019, the national college admissions scandal known as “Varsity Blues” that involved prominent celebrities and the highly-ranked schools of USC, Stanford and UCLA made headlines. The bribery scandal drew a lot of attention toward admissions offices and what kind of procedures they have in place for deciding student admission. In a statement emailed to Reuters by UC President Michael V. Drake the same day the audit report was released, Drake said
than one sole admissions office employee, starting in the upcoming 2021-2022 academic year. The Audit has put recommendations in place and also suggested that the UCOP implement guidelines for Fall 2021 admissions. This would include having two people look at athletes’ talent, one of which must not be from the athletics department. The other recommendation is to have a faculty member keeping an eye on student athletes’ participation in sports, to ensure they continue being involved after admission. Santa Monica College (SMC) is the top-rated community college in transfers to the UC institutions. In 2018, SMC had a total of 28,800 enrolled students. 1,272 of those students transferred to UC Campuses, 504 of which were admitted into UCLA. According to the audit, from the years of 2013-2018 the largest population of students
Every registered voter in California will receive a mail-in ballot that can be completed at home and mailed with no in-person action required. Voter registration must be postmarked or submitted online no later than Oct. 19 in California. In a normal election, most states limit mail-in voting, and request that those who want to exercise this service apply for an absentee ballot. These types of ballots are accessible to voters who are out of the country for the duration of the election window, have an illness or disability, are working on election day, or fall under a number of other limited categories. Due to widespread COVID-19 lockdowns, this election will feature at-home voting to a higher degree than ever before, and consequently, absentee and mail-in ballots are largely interchangeable.
While the California deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Oct. 27, California has required that counties send mail-in ballots to the homes of all residents by Oct. 5. Voters do not need to request a mail-in ballot; they will be sent to the address on their registration by default. Mail-in ballots can be returned postage-free via any United States Postal Service (USPS) mailbox, or dropped off at any of the 400+ secure Drop Boxes placed around Los Angeles County. Voters are required to place their voted ballot cards inside the official return envelope, securely seal the envelope, and sign and date the envelope. For those who want to vote in-person, select Los Angeles County voting centers will open on Oct. 24., and all remaining locations will begin operations on Oct. 30. Early voters in Los Angeles can also cast
admitted nationwide into UC schools were predominantly white, and had annual family incomes averaging around $150,000 and higher. “UCLA is made up of donors and elites which [explains] why transferring to UCLA is a huge challenge, because of the rich,” said SMC communications major Miguel Camponuevo. “When you are wanting to transfer to a four-year university, you expect them to look at your GPA and accomplishments. With UCLA, one feels like they’re showing how much they’re worth by wealth and not skills or grades.” While Caleb Silver did not start his college career at SMC, he enrolled in UCLA in 2018 as a transfer from Los Angeles Valley Community College to study music. However, after just one year, he transferred to the University of Portland, and is finishing his degree there. Among the several reasons that led to his transfer, the high costs and ‘cliquey’ student body were leading factors. “I was overwhelmed with high living costs and they kept hiking tuition; I felt it was too much for non-rich people,” Silver said. “Education is a survival trait not a luxury.” Under the “Facts and Stats” section on the SMC website, over 3,000 international students attend SMC from 110 different countries. The improper admission practices of UC universities unveiled by the audit could potentially hurt a large number of SMC students who are of lower socioeconomic status or are not privileged to have the same connections as other students. The UCOP has not been clear on whether or not they are planning on enforcing the recommendations written in the audit report. The report states that they said they plan to take “prompt action” in ensuring that the morality of their admissions practices is upheld.
A First-Time Voters Guide for November Jack Hughes | Editor-in-Cheif On Tuesday, Nov. 3, the United States will take part in a pivotal general election, featuring presidential, Senate, House of Representatives, gubernatorial, and local races, as well as a variety of state-specific propositions. Amidst a pandemic, a particularly scrappy presidential election, and a full ballot, it can be daunting for new members of the electorate to get involved in the political atmosphere. Perhaps now more than ever, the future of the nation rests on the involvement, or lack thereof of the United States’ new pool of voters. Between California’s new mail-in initiatives, registration, absentee ballot laws, and in-person voting, there are a number of deadlines of which voters should be aware.
their ballot starting on Oct. 5 at the Registrars Headquarters. Voting centers will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the early voters period, and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. Due to COVID-19, in-person voters will be required to wear facial coverings and gloves, which will be provided if need be. They will also be asked to keep a distance of six feet from one another, in accordance with social distancing guidelines. First-time voters may be asked to show some type of government-issued identification. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, passport, utility bill, or sample ballot. Voters can bring any notes, pre-filled sample ballots, or information they deem necessary to expedite their voting process.
Donald Trump (R)
Incumbent
Ted Lieu (D)
Incumbent
U.S. House CA District 33 Superior Court of LA County Office 72
“Now more than ever, it is critical to actively participate in our democracy in order to ensure that our government reflects the needs of all people.” Endorsements Los Angeles Times CA Teachers Association CA Democratic Party Dianne Feinstein Judy Chu Maxine Waters Eric Garcetti SMC Faculty Association
Platform Points Remove federal funding for some universities No entry into the US for anybody with a criminal record Finding a safe way to explore drilling for oil in America
“A Judge of, for, and by the People!”
“Morgan for Justice”
Endorsements National Women’s Political Caucus The Black Women's Democratic Club Sunrise Movement LA Stonewall Young Democrats Maxine Waters Debra Archuleta
“Our future cannot depend on the government alone. The ultimate solutions lie in the attitudes and the actions of the American people.” Platform Points Sustainable infrastructure and a clean energy future End gun violence Modernize the American immigration system
Endorsements The Republican Party of LA Dran Reese CA Republican Party
“I’d ask you to take a look at my endorsements and our qualifications, mine being well qualified, and my opponents being not qualified from the LA County Bar Association.” Platform Points Ensure fairness and eradicate bias in the courtroom Uphold the idea that there is “justice for all” Make sure that there is integrity in the courtroom.
Endorsements The Los Angeles Times LA County Democratic Party LA Daily News Los Angeles Sentinel Mario Barrera Lisa Mangay Chungthe Andrew Cooper
Pla Unive sing
Endorsements Human Rights Campaign Barack Obama Hillary Clinton Bernie Sanders Elizabeth Warren Planned Parenthood Sierra Club Lebron James
Jackie Lacey (D)
“Society cannot exist without law. Law is the bond of society: that which makes it, that which preserves it and keeps it together. It is, in fact, the essence of civil society.”
Steve Morgan (NP)
“I will add much new insight, diversity, and a crucial female voice to the judiciary.”
“Join No
James P. Bradley (R)
Myanna Dellinger (NP)
Platform Points Make the American Justice System more balanced and fair Curb gun violence Ensure equal access to basic necessities such as healthcare and education
Endorsements America First Action National Rifle Association Lindsey Graham David Duke Jeff Sessions Newt Gingrich Jerry Falwell Jr. Vladimir Putin
“Intelligent Solutions for California”
“Ted Lieu for Congress”
Platform Points Offer safe and legal abortion without restrictions Reform drug legislation Make two years of community college free
Platform Points Put America first in foreign policy Building a wall on the southern border to curb illegal immigration Terminate the Affordable Care Act
“Battle for the Soul of the Nation”
District Attorney
Writing by Gabrielle Faulkner Infographic by Samantha deNicola & Sonia Hiew
“There has never been an administration or President who has done more than I’ve done.”
Roque d
Superior Court of LA County Office 80
Candidate Breakdown
President
“Keep America Great”
Joe Biden (D)
Impro system
Creat effect m
Incumbent
“Justice for All”
“Everything relies on leadership.” Platform Points Neighborhood safety Prison reform for those with mental health struggles Environmental reform
Endorsements ALADS LAPPL Los Angeles County P Chiefs’ Associatio Dianne Feinstein Judy Chu Fiona Ma Brad Sherman Richard Riordan
David Berger (NP) “Integrity, Compassion, Experience”
“I wanted to be a lawyer who would seek justice a obtain justice, and do so honorably and ethically Platform Points Offer rehabilitation for addicts rather than retribution Reform the justice system so it offers rehabilitation for young offenders
Endorsements Los Angeles Tim LA County Democratic LA Police Protective L Robert Shapiro John Duran Kathleen Blancha Stonewall Democratic Association of LA De Sheriffs
de la Fuente (A)
Howie Hawkins (G)
Jo Jorgensen (L)
Gloria La Rivera (P&F)
ow, Together We Are Stronger”
“Ecosocialist Green New Deal”
“Break Free From Big Government”
“For the Earth to Survive, Capitalism Must End”
“Are you tired of the dumpster fire of lesser evil choices offered every election by the major parties? It's time to make a real change, not vote for more of the same!”
s
Police on n
n
and y.”
s mes c Party League o
ard c Club eputy
Platform Points Medicare-like national health insurance system Community control of the police “End endless wars”
Endorsements Soraya Faas
George Gascón (D) “Democrats for Los Angeles District Attorney”
“If just one individual was wrongfully imprisoned because of bias on the part of these officers, that's one too many.” Platform Points Reform the justice system and hold police accountable Behavioral health and it’s connection to homelessness Push to eliminate cash bail
Endorsements Los Angeles Times CA Democratic Party Color of Change PAC Eric Garcetti Bernie Sanders Patrisse Cullors Kamala Harris Gavin Newsom
Klint McKay (NP) “McKay for Judge”
“I have demonstrated throughout my life that I can persevere through adversity.” Platform Points Ensure equal treatment for all litigants Create and promote ‘competent and empathetic resolution of disputes’
Endorsements LA Progressive Majority Voter Guide Service Employees International Union Local 721 Robert P. Applegate Carlos Ramirez Laura Sweet
Endorsements Legal Marijuana Now Party Socialist Party USA Ajamu Baraka Margaret Flowers Paul Le Blanc Chris Hedges Independent Socialist Group Socialist Alternative
CA State Assembly District 50
atform Points ersal publicly-funded gle payer access to healthcare ove the public school m by making it more equitable te a more intelligent, tive, and efficient immigration system
Superior Court of LA County Office 162
“Together we can fight and champion the causes that affect us the most.”
“I’m for a fair tax, as long as it’s 0%. There is no such thing as a fair tax.” Platform Points Federally decriminalize all drugs Unregulated abortion without subsidies Remove United States involvement in foreign affairs
Richard Bloom (NP)
Endorsements Justin Amash James P. Gray Adam Kokesh Larry Sharpe Vermin Supreme Tim Moen Gary Nola Jacob Hornberger
Incumbent
“Join Us as We Build a Better Future”
“Housing is something that I prioritize. I’m sure you know that Santa Monica has been a leader on affordable housing and providing housing.” Platform Points Ending the ongoing housing crisis Ending climate change Making healthcare more accessible
Endorsements CA Federation of Teachers CA League of Conservation Voters Equality California LEAP Forward Sierra Club California Stonewall Democratic Club United Auto Workers UDWA
“The Party for Socialism and Liberation stands for the things that people need. We would make jobs, free healthcare, free education and affordable housing [human] rights.” Platform Points Make human needs guaranteed rights Combat the Climate Crisis End racism and police brutality Close U.S. military bases around the world
Endorsements José Cortés
Will Hess (NP) “The Will of the People!”
“Where there’s a Will… There’s a way!”
Platform Points Eradicate homelessness and “clean up the district” Rebuild and expand public transportation throughout the district Protect the Second Amendment
Endorsements None Available
David Diamond (NP)
Scott Yang (NP)
“By the People and For the People”
“Trusted, Experienced, Respected”
“I find myself both humbled and honored to have the opportunity to seek a judicial position after many years of legal experience and training to better serve my community." Platform Points Transparent Court Proceedings Establishment of the courtroom as a respectful environment Remaining fair and impartial in all cases
Endorsements The Los Angeles Times LA Progressive Majority ACTION Network Pasadena Star-News Los Angeles Daily News San Gabriel Valley Tribune Neetu Badhan-Smith Lucy Armendariz Tom Rubinson
“I’m running for judge because I’ve spent my entire career fighting for the most vulnerable in our society.” Platform Points Be a fair and impartial judge Ensure that anyone who enters the courtroom gets justice Maintain high ethical standards
Endorsements The LA County Federation of Labor Crime Survivor’s PAC LA City Attorneys Association Association for LADPS William Sterling Tony Chu The Daily Bruin
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A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
The First Presidential Debate: Political Conversation or Reality Show?
Michael Goldsmith | Staff Writer In what should come as a surprise to no-one, the first and possibly only presidential debate of 2020 quickly devolved into a chaotic and cringe-worthy symbol of America’s current political state. The first presidential debate between President Donald Trump and Former Vice President Joe Biden took place on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio. Fox News’ Chris Wallace moderated the debate, which was sponsored by the Commission on Presidential Debates. Wallace seemed to lose control of the debate within minutes. He continually asked Trump to abide by the rules both campaigns had agreed upon. “I think that the country would be better served if we’d allow both people to speak with fewer interruptions,” Wallace begged. “I’m appealing to you, sir, to do that.” At one point he instructed the president, “Sir, you’re supposed to debate him, not me.” As CNN’s Jake Tapper later put it, “That was a hot mess, inside a dumpster fire, inside a train wreck. That was the worst debate I have ever seen…It was a disgrace.” The various topics covered during the debate included the Supreme Court; healthcare and the pandemic; the economy; racial and social unrest; climate change; and election integrity. When asked about replacing the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg before the election, the president responded, “Elections have consequences. We have the Senate, we have the White House, and we have a phenomenal nominee.” Biden disagreed, stating, “The American people have a right to say who the Supreme Court nominee is…They’re not going to get that chance now because we’re in the middle of an election that has already started.” Wallace then pressed Trump on his still-unreleased healthcare plan, stating, “You’ve never come up with a plan to replace Obamacare.” Trump responded, “Of course I have…I’ve already fixed it.” Trump has attempted to undo the Affordable Care Act since taking office in 2016, including protections for preexisting conditions. Biden instead proposed expanding Obamacare, including the addition of a public
option. Speaking on the coronavirus pandemic, Biden stated the situation in stark terms. “200,000 dead…We in fact have 4% of the world’s population, 20% of the deaths. When (Trump) was presented with that number, he said, ‘It is what it is.’ Well, it is what it is because you are who you are,” said Biden. The president responded, “If we would have listened to you…millions of people would have died, not 200,000…Its China’s fault.” Trump also contradicted his own government, claiming, “We’re weeks away
numerous promises since the 2016 campaign, Trump has never released his tax returns. On the issue of race in America, Biden stated, “We have never walked away from trying to acquire equity for everyone, and equality for the whole of America. But we’ve never accomplished it.” He then quoted the president’s infamous response to Charlottesville, stating, “‘There were some very fine people, on both sides.’ No president’s ever said anything like that.” Trump fired back, “You called [black people] ‘super predators’. And you’ve called them worse
from a vaccine.” He then mocked Biden for routinely wearing a mask, while disputing the effectiveness of them without evidence. The president has continually refused to issue a nationwide mask mandate, and well as personally wear one himself, with few exceptions. The president tested positive for COVID-19 just days after the debate. On the economy, Trump proclaimed that “we built the greatest economy in history. We closed it down because of the China plague…(Biden) will destroy this country.” Biden disagreed, stating, “he’s going to be the first president of the United States to leave office having fewer jobs in his administration than when he became president… We handed (Trump) a booming economy. He blew it.” Asked about his personal taxes, the president responded, “I pay millions of dollars in taxes.” Biden immediately challenged Trump to, “Show us your tax returns.” Despite
than that.” There is no record of Biden using the term “super-predators.” Trump then directly challenged Biden, “Are you in favor of law and order?” The former Vice President responded, “I’m in favor of law, you following it, and a little bit of order. Of course I’m in favor of law and order. With justice, where people get treated fairly.” The president then declared, “If (Biden) ever got to run this country… our suburbs would be gone.” Biden fired back, “This is not 1950. All these dog whistles and racism don’t work anymore.” When asked by Wallace whether he was willing to condemn white supremacists, specifically the pro-Trump neo-fascist group the Proud Boys, the president responded, “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by. But I’ll tell you what, somebody’s got to do something about Antifa and the left.” Trump’s own government has identified white su-
premacist terrorism as the biggest domestic threat to America. Asked why voters should elect them, Trump responded, “There has never been an administration or president who has done more than I’ve done.” Biden offered a harsher critique, contenting that, “Under this president, we’ve become weaker, sicker, poorer, more divided, and more violent,” adding, “he’s Putin’s puppy.” On the issue of climate change, Trump said, “I want crystal clean water and…beautiful clean air…As far as the fires (in California) are concerned, you need forest management.” The majority of California forestland is owned and maintained by the federal government. Biden focused on job creation in response to the climate crisis. “We can get to net zero in terms of energy production by 2035,” he said. “Not only not costing people jobs…[but] creating millions of good-paying jobs.” Biden added, “We spend billions of dollars now… on floods, hurricanes, rising seas. We’re in real trouble…[This] didn’t happen before. It’s because of global warming.” The president then falsely claimed Biden is a proponent of the Green New Deal, stating, “They want to rip down buildings… they want to take the cows.” Biden responded, “That is simply not the case.” On the final topic of election integrity, Biden stated, “(Trump’s) own Homeland Security Director, as well as the FBI Director, says there’s no evidence at all that mail-in ballots are a source of being manipulated… Show up and vote, and you will determine the outcome of this election.” The president finished off the debate by claiming, “As far as the ballots are concerned, it’s a disaster… This is going to be a fraud like you’ve never seen.” The debate was widely met with disgust and disappointment. The following day the Commission on Presidential Debates announced that it was adding “additional structure” to the remaining debates, which are now in question due to the president’s contraction of COVID-19. The next presidential debate is scheduled for Thursday, October 15. Illustration by Johnny Neville
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Maurice Harkless of the New York Knicks makes a cameo in Dom Kennedy’s Bootleg Cable music video in North Hollywood, California on July 27, 2020. (Maxim Elramsisy / The Corsair)
(Above) In between takes producer Troy Noka shows a hundred dollar bill with the face of Nipsey Hustle on the set of Dom Kennedy’s Bootleg Cable music video in North Hollywood, California on July 26, 2020. (Maxim Elramsisy / The Corsair)
Rap N Roll With Dom Kennedy Maxim Elramsisy | Photo Editor Acclaimed hip-hop artist Dom Kennedy released his 7th studio album, Rap N Roll, on Sept. 25, 2020. The Los Angeles based artist and Santa Monica College alumnus has forged a relatively unusual and principled path in the music industry. Rather than signing with a record label, he opted to maintain independence by creating his own music label, OPM. With this strategy he maintains the ownership and rights over all of his music. Over the years since his 2008 debut mixtape, 25th Hour, Kennedy has writDom Kennedy poses outside the set in North Hollywood, California on July 26, 2020. (Maxim Elramsisy / The Corsair)
ten music with themes about life in Los Angeles. He is a testament that artists can find success and popularity while staying true to their roots. The “Bootleg Cable” music video is emblematic of Kennedy’s west-coast style. It’s a family affair, as the video was directed by his cousin, Jason Madison, and features Kennedy’s children. There are also cameos from the song’s producer, Troy Noka, and New York Knicks forward Maurice Harkless. The video follows Dom through a micro-cosmic liquor store with the whole neighborhood inside.
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Artist Gabriel E. Encinas funneling his anxiety about the upcoming election into visual art in Buena Park, California
Cast Your Ballot as if Y Johaira Dilauro | Staff Writer
“This year, during the 2020 Presidential Elections I choose to bare my heart and soul.” Gabriel E. Encinas
As the 2016 presidential election was nearing its final stretch, anxiety and depression crept back into Gabriel Encinas’ existence. “Trump’s run for president triggered painful memories. The bullying killed my heart to the core and still does. I was devastated at the election results. Everything I am, all my rights, my own existence is being taken away from me,” said Encinas. After incredible progress for the LGBTQ+ community during the Obama administration, the Trump presidency reawakened fears for the LGBTQ+ community, that the acceptance that they had worked so hard for would be stripped away. “I was most terrified that Trump would take my rights away. I had just been married the year before thanks to marriage equality, otherwise Bom would not have been able to be here with me. I knew he would do everything he could to
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a on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. (Johaira Dilauro / The Corsair)
Your Life Depends on It destroy our rights. Period.” With the support of his friends and family Gabriel has tried to remain optimistic for the future. “My love for dance and photography keep me going. I have struggled these past 3.5 years to find joy and hope. My sister Caro, a proud lesbian and woman of color, has been my guiding light. Her entire life has been a constant protest standing up for rights of the LGBTQ+ community.” On Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, Gabriel and a small group of close friends decided a creative intervention needed to take place to inspire people to vote. As an artist, Gabriel seeks to create an emotional experience. He’s a professional photographer who specializes in capturing dancing bodies in motion, so it’s rare that he is on the other side of the lens. Realizing the importance and urgency of the upcoming election, he is willing to push himself out of his comfort zone
to inspire people to vote. Although 2020 has brought unforeseeable hardships including his ongoing struggle with depression and addiction, this year has had some wins as well. Gabriel reclaimed control over his health and wellbeing. He started eating healthy whole foods and working out again. “I am happy to be alive. I have become brave. I have allowed myself to be in front of the camera. This year, during the 2020 Presidential Elections I choose to bare my heart and soul. Here I am, all of me,” said Encinas. “My message is clear: Vote... Cast your ballot as if your life depends on it. Vote as if my life deserves respect, acceptance and peace. I am hopeful that the 100 million people who chose not to vote in the 2016 Election are now aware of the importance of voting. I will see you at the polls.”
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Percussionist provides musical mood for the Koreans for Trump rally. He is set up behind the speakers. Los Angeles, Calif. on Saturday, October 3, 2020. (Alex Ramirez Canales/The Corsair)
Trump Rally in K-Town Amidst Diagnosis Maxim Elramsisy | Photo Editor On Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020 a group known as “Korean-American’s for Trump” gathered for a rally to support the President at the Wilshire & Western Metro Station In KoreaTown, Los Angeles, Calif. The rally took place shortly following the announcement that President Donald J. Trump had tested positive for COVID-19. Amidst a week of Democratic backlash in response to the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett, a decision that counters conservative arguments over nominee Merrick Garland in 2016, Trump landed in Walter Reed Hospital out of “an abundance of precaution.” Whitehouse officials and the president’s doctors avoided questions on Trump’s condition throughout his stay. Rally members listened to speeches and music at the event.
Attendees holding both American and Korean flags as the rally is coming to an end. Los Angeles, Calif. on Saturday October 3, 2020. (Alex Ramirez Canales/The Corsair)
A Korean speaker at the Koreans for Trump rally on Saturday, October 3, 2020 in Los Angeles, Calif. (Alex Ramirez Canales/The Corsair)
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The Political Influence of TikTok Johnny Neville | Social Media Editor TikTok. The social media app with over 80 million daily active U.S. users has held the #1 and #2 spots in U.S. quarterly app downloads since the beginning of 2019, according to marketing agency MediaKix. The popularity of the platform has boomed since its global release in 2017, due to its viral dance and comedy videos, among other trends. In fall of 2020, the app hit a rough patch when President Trump made repeated efforts to ban TikTok over security concerns. Nevertheless, the app has prevailed. As TikTok continues to grow, the diversity of content on the platform grows with it. U.S. politics has become a major content topic, especially with the divisiveness of the current election cycle. “Every time I get on my [for you page] and start scrolling to watch stuff, something political is bound to come up right now,” said Adam Colvin, an SMC student studying music and photography. There are multiple ways that political content is expressed on TikTok. These include widely circulating jokes and trends that all kinds of people participate in, content creators who focus mainly on politics, actual politicians on the app, and news and media outlets. Each of these types of content contains a mixture of political humor, opinions, and news. The jokes and trends that often circulate on TikTok are the most common form of political content, a recent example being the first presidential debate. In the hours and days following the debate, videos about it flooded the platform from all types of creators. Some gave their opinions on Trump’s and Biden’s performances, some made jokes about how chaotic it was, and some highlighted the most entertaining moments and shocking lines from the two candidates. Even more staggering was the surge of videos after President Trump tested positive for COVID-19. Some creators attempted to make sense of the situation and relay the news to their viewers, and some offered their opinion on the situation as more information was learned. However, most of the videos in the days following the president’s announcement made jokes pointing out the glaring irony of the situation, given that the president has publicly downplayed the virus despite knowing of its dangers and purposely flouted public health guidelines regarding events and personal safety. In addition, the news of former White House advisor Kellyanne Conway contracting COVID-19 was first revealed by her daughter, Claudia Conway, in a video she uploaded on TikTok for her 1.3 million followers. The video, which now has 4.4 million views, features Claudia Conway wearing a mask and reads, “update my mom has covid.” Another major political trend circulated TikTok back in June, when thousands of people reserved free tickets for President Trump’s rally in Tulsa with no intention of ever showing up, in order to embarrass the President and the campaign by making the
stadium look empty. Information about this spread on multiple social media platforms, especially TikTok, and led to a large number of participants. Brad Parscale, former chairman of the Trump re-election campaign, tweeted that there had been over 1 million ticket requests. However, when the event came around, much of the main stadium and
expression of their own political opinions and the personality and comedy they inject into their videos. Some of these creators have joined together and formed group accounts dedicated to their shared views, such as the Republican and Democrat Hype Houses, along with other smaller groups on both sides of
overflow areas were left empty. The Tulsa Fire Department later stated that only about 6,200 attendees actually entered the stadium. An additional source of political content on the app comes from popular creators whose whole platform is based on politics. Although many of them take part in circulating trends and jokes as well, many have grown significant followings through the
the political spectrum. These names are a take on “The Hype House,” one of the first and most popular content creation groups on TikTok. Politicians themselves also contribute to the ever-expanding political realm of TikTok. For example, U.S. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) has over 24,000 followers. His campaign has stated that their goal is to
connect with younger voters, and his videos often mention the Green New Deal, the major climate plan he co-sponsored, in hopes that it will appeal to young progressives. Minnesota State Senator Matt Little, who has gained over 157,000 followers, posts energetic videos highlighting his work in the Minnesota Senate and his political views, also hoping to connect with younger voters. Further adding to the political narrative and information on TikTok are news and media outlets. NBC News, which has 181,000 followers, and NowThis Politics, which has 1 million followers, post clips of news segments and political events, reaching new audiences that they typically wouldn’t with their traditional television and online programming. The Washington Post’s TikTok page, led by video producer Dave Jorgenson, uploads videos featuring reporters who work in their newsroom, catering to their 714,000 followers. Recently Jorgenson has made videos informing viewers on the different journalistic styles, as well as updating their audience on the news itself. All of these various types of content suggest one main thing: the political realm of TikTok is incredibly influential. The TikTok videos on the hashtag #Biden2020 have almost 3 billion total views, and the videos on #Trump2020 have nearly 12 billion, not to mention the billions more views on other political hashtags. This content’s influence on its audience could start to see some real effects in the future. As of September 2020, 62% of U.S. TikTok users are under the age of 29 (according to advertising agency Wallaroo Media). According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average voter turnout rate among 18 to 24-year-olds since 1964 is about 32%, significantly lower than any other age group. It is quite possible that the prevalence of political content on the app has and will continue to influence the opinions of the age group that is most represented on TikTok, but least represented in the polls. “I think it’s really empowering to see a lot of young people interested in politics,” says international SMC student Nicolas Orrego, one of the millions who spends time watching political content on TikTok and sees the extents of its reach. TikTok has only existed for one U.S. election, the 2018 midterms. That was mostly before its large boom in popularity, which means that the effects of this app on politics and voter turnout are unknown. The results of the 2020 election and future election cycles — in the Presidency, Congress, and state and local offices — could show just how influential the political conversations happening on TikTok have been in getting young voters interested in their democracy.
Illustration by Johnny Neville
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A Historical Overview of Abortion in Western Civilization Marcos Mackey-Darden | Staff Writer For centuries, abortions have been a taboo subject among people worldwide. Many people have an opinion on abortions, whether they support it or not. Nonetheless, there is a deep history behind this “taboo” subject. To search up the term “abortion” online would unlock a world of medical centers and websites that will tell you about the before, during, and after-effects of the procedure. A notable name when speaking about abortions is Planned Parenthood (PP). Although most know PP to be an abortion provider, it is also a nonprofit organization that provides sexual health care and eductation to any who need it. Planned Parenthood ensures that they lay out all the options in regards to those considering terminating a pregnancy. On their website, www.plannedparenthood.org, there are many links providing education on both surgical and medical abortions, with the help of licensed doctors and nurses. Beginning in the colonial age of America, abortions were legal and available to women who wanted the procedure performed. According to the Center for American Progress’ website, “Abortion was not just legal—it was a safe, condoned, and practiced procedure in colonial America and common enough to appear in the legal and medical records of the period.” The website states that if a woman during
17th or 18th century New England wanted an abortion, “no legal, social, or religious force would have stopped her.” Abortion laws did not officially come into effect in the U.S. until 1821. The website also fact-checks anti-abortion groups such as the Family Research Council and Americans United for Life. These groups claim that having an abortion would not be constitutionally acceptable, when in fact abortion had been legal during the time the constitution was written. Though many would not imagine the Puritans and settlers of colonial America as being “progressive,” they actually brought the ideas of freedom to America, including the English perspective on abortion. They felt that sex was not just for reproduction to grow the population in their new country, but also for pleasure between a husband and wife. Because of their progressive view on sex, they supported those who wanted abortions. Progressing into the 19th century, abortions that were not for the purpose of saving the mother’s life were deemed criminal procedures in all states, according to the Center for American Progress. These changes were likely tied to the developments taking place in social class and family dynamics of the time. The reasoning for these laws was also due a perceived threat to the male patriarchy by a newfound independence in women who
wanted to start families later in life. Along with this emerging sentiment against abortions, a coalition of male doctors backed by the American Medical Association (AMA), the Catholic Church, and many sensationalist newspapers began the campaign against abortions. According to Carroll Smith-Rosenberg in her book, Disorderly Conduct: Visions of Gender in Victorian America, the Victorian era anti-abortion campaign was a way to paint women who had abortions as “unnatural and selfish, undermining the expected, patriotic, and godly role of the American woman—that of wife and mother.” It was not until 1973 when the Roe V. Wade ruling once again legalized abortions in the US. During the period when abortions were illegal, many women died from trying to perform unsafe abortions. As many as 5,000 women died during the 100 years that abortions had been illegal. After Roe V. Wade passed, hospitalizations and deaths due to
improperly performed abortions halted. Abortions, which were historically considered to be almost as safe as carrying a child to full term, are still considered to be extremely safe. There is still stigma and judgement surrounding abortions and its related topics. Even though contraceptives are widely considered a basic health need, easy access to cheap contraceptives is restricted. It should be noted that in the United States, most laws concerning female reproductive health are made by men. Like most medical procedures, it continues to get safer as time goes on. Abortion is not a new topic, as it is a process that people have been taking part in for centuries. So long as unplanned pregnancies continue to take place, abortions will continue to be a part of history.
Count campaign at the end of September to give away five new Teslas. HeadCount is a national nonprofit that works with musicians to support and guide both first-time and returning voters. Dobrik promised his followers a chance to win a car if they shared his post to their stories, tagged a friend in the comments, and made sure they were registered to vote via HeadCount’s website. According to HeadCount, Dobrik’s efforts secured over 100,000 new registered voters in 24 hours and verified the registration status of 250,000 others. Musicians have also gotten involved in
pushing for voter registration. A link in Beyonce’s Instagram bio directs her 155 million followers to her branded “Let Your Voice Be Your Voice” campaign. Recent Grammy winner Billie Eilish also uses her Instagram platform to drive her 67 million followers to a branded portal linked to all the major national election registration campaigns. Sisters and mega-stars Kylie and Kendall Jenner’s Instagram pages both link to the vote.org portal which features an election countdown clock, as well as links to an election calendar showing the early voting start and end dates, courtesy of Vogue
Magazine. Between the two sisters, they have an Instagram following of roughly 337 million followers. On his Instagram, actor Tom Hanks promotes voting with retro-style typewritten inspirational quotes, as well as promoting the Grassroots Fest event that he headlined with Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. These celebrities are joined by numerous other politically-active public figures and organizations encouraging voting in this year’s uniquely polarized presidential election. Social media’s power and influence has increased exponentially in recent years. With the influx of so many political social media campaigns, 2020 will surely see one of the largest virtual efforts in promoting voter participation to date.
A woman in the waiting room of Planned Parenthood in Santa Monica on Thursday Oct. 1, 2020. Masks are mandatory and cell phone use is prohibited to ensure privacy. (Johaira Dilauro / The Corsair)
Celebrities Promote Voter Registration
Gregory Stogel | Staff Writer With the presidential election less than a month away, American social media is aflame with a myriad of celebrity and corporate promotional campaigns urging people to get out and vote. Actors, musicians, influencers, and celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyonce, Billie Eilish, Madonna, David Dobrik, and Kylie and Kendall Jenner are actively encouraging voter education to their millions of followers. DiCaprio, Oscar winning actor and activist, links to his documentary “Whose Vote Counts, Explained” on his Instagram page, which has over 46 million followers. In addition, his highlights section offers highly produced video statements by celebrities, such as former Clippers Coach Doc Rivers and actor Bradley Cooper, explaining the “Do’s and Don’ts of Voting” in their states of origin. Dobrik, a well known vlogger on YouTube, linked up with Tesla Motors and the Head-
Illustration by Johnny Neville
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Still Spinning Jackie Sedley | News Editor A slogan like “the last record store” may feel painfully ironic given the pandemic’s toll on the arts and entertainment scene, but this has been the motto for Record Surplus on Santa Monica Blvd. since they opened in the 1980s. Even then, store founders anticipated a decline in record sales with the onset popularity of CDs; however, they never expected a global pandemic to deliver a heavy blow to their (Above) Customers at the Record Surplus store during the COVID-19 pandemic, on September 22, 2020, 2020 in Santa Monica, Calif. (Yasamin Jafari Tehrani / The Corsair)
(Right) The Record Surplus (est. 1985), is an independent record store and one of the largest sellers of used vinyl records and CD’s on the West. Carrying records from a variety of genres such as: Rock, Jazz, Soul, Hip-Hop, Blues, Classical, Country and more. The Record Surplus store during the Covid-19 pandemic, on September 22, 2020, 2020 in Santa Monica, Calif. (Yasamin Jafari Tehrani / The Corsair)
business. The independent record store had to close for 10 weeks due to COVID-19, and only recently opened back up. Nonetheless, staff members like Chris Vagnoni are hopeful that Record Surplus will survive the pandemic, as long as customers keep wearing their masks. “A lot of people have said that this is their therapy, music being the medicine to get people through these tough times,” said Vagnoni, a sales clerk at Record Surplus for over two decades.
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A Black Woman’s Role in the Movement
Miyae Folkes | Staff Writer
In the wake of George Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020, Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests ensued across all 50 states, and in every continent except for Antarctica. Floyd’s death highlighted the injustice that Black men face in America. His death reminded many of the unprovoked murders of Tamir Rice, Emmett Till, Trayvon Martin, and many more. The start of the Black Lives Matter movement began in 2013 founded by three Black women. Until early June, 2020, most of the well known victims of police brutality were men. In June 2020 the BLM movement was revived and for the first time, a Black woman was at the front of the BLM narrative, Breonna Taylor. Taylor’s death has drawn unprecedented focus on disparities faced by Black women in relation to police brutality. In 2015, Sandra Bland’s murder at the hands of police had been the only other case involving a Black female victim to grab the nations’ attention. Breonna Taylor’s murder served as a catalyst for bringing attention to fellow female victims at the hands of police. It took months for the world to learn about Breonna Taylor and other cases involving female victims, even amidst the global protests for George Floyd and Black Lives Matter. On March 13, 2020, the same day President Trump declared a state of emergency for COVID-19, officers entered Taylor’s apartment in Louisville, Kentucky, through a “no-knock” search warrant while she and
her boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, were asleep. With the combination of late hours and the lack of identification by police, Walker mistook the officers as intruders and grabbed his gun to fire shots. The officers returned fire, striking Taylor’s body five times in the process. According to investigators, Taylor struggled to breathe for at least five minutes after she was shot. She received no medical attention and died on scene according to The Courier Journal. Black women being left out is not a new phenomenon. Throughout history, Black women have always received the shorter end of the stick; from the suffrage movement, to reproductive rights, and even the fight for racial equality. Now the narrative is being repeated again into the 21st century, including the exclusion of women in BLM. Breonna Taylor’s case suffered from trivializing attention in the same era that Floyd’s gained progressive traction. For months, Breonna Taylor’s name could not be uttered without the name of her counterpart, George Floyd. While Floyd was on the cover of Time Magazine and The New Yorker, Taylor’s image became a meme. Social media users jokingly paired “justice for Breonna Taylor” and a joke of their own. Her case suffered from lack of punctuality; Breonna Taylor’s case was taken to trial 6 months after her death, Floyd’s took a fraction of that - about a month. George Floyd’s murder drew outcry the minute his death was publicized due to video evidence
circulating, while it took months for Taylors death to be brought to the public eye. The farthest respect attributed to Breonna’s name was a viral hashtag and protest. Formal justice has yet to be met. You wouldn’t know Taylors name if you didn’t know Floyd’s. Breonna Taylor’s life has been met with caricature on social media, and even amongst public figures who support the BLM movement. During a pregame show, NBA on TNT, former NBA player Charles Barkley spoke on Taylors case. “You know, we have to take into account that her boyfriend did shoot at the cops and shot a cop.” said Barkley. “So, like I say, even though I’m really sorry she lost her life, I don’t think we can put this in the same situation as George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery; I just don’t believe that.” Taylors life has been met with more ridicule than justice. And that’s a narrative also experienced by other murdered Black women. This exclusion likely stems from tropes often attributed to Black women. Society often sees Black women as strong and independent, removing the need to treat them with empathy because “they can handle it.” Furthermore, the stereotype of ‘angry’ Black women diminishes their issues by
minimizing their feelings and focusing on their exterior. Such stereotypes push the falsehood that Black women have less inherent value. #SayHerName, a campaign started in 2014, has brought light to the countless voiceless Black women who have fallen victim to police brutality. Aiyana Stanley-Jones, Atatiana Jefferson, Natasha McKenna, India Kager, and Shantel Davis are a few of many who have been given the attention they deserve. But it is an undeniable fact that the #SayHerName campaign was only started out of the deadly silence that has kept black women’s lives nameless and dismissed for centuries. We live in a society where we are indoctrinated to become dehumanized to Black pain, especially Black female suffering. As stated by Malcom X in “Who Taught You To Hate Yourself”, “the most disrespected woman in America, is the Black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the Black woman. The most neglected person in America, is the black woman.” It is time that we advocate on behalf of all Black women’s lives.
charged from the Navy for drug use. Biden responded, “My son, like a lot of people, like a lot of people you know at home, had a drug problem. He’s overtaken it. He’s fixed it.” Moments like these are reflective of the influence debates have on people. With over 21 million Americans battling addiction and only 10% seeking help, hearing this from presidential candidates creates dialogue on the stigma of drug addiction, and more importantly, how candidates acknowledge such an impactful issue. So, given all the madness that was the first debate, is it worth watching? Absolutely. There is an impending need for improvement, some of which has already been put into work by organizers. Future debates will include muting the mic if the candidates interrupt each other. Let’s not all forget the mutual anxiety our nation felt watching the first presidential debate. I think we must talk about the triggers many viewers experienced. Anyone who has experienced verbal, physical, or sexual abuse had to be at some level triggered by the bullying and misinformation on that stage. As individuals it’s important to acknowl-
edge these sparks of anxiety, and we must all find a way, pre and post-debate, to take care of our mental and physical well-being. Being united in witnessing these debates and collectively experiencing this unparalleled moment in time solidifies the need to watch them. They are imperative in creating informed decisions. As both a first-generation Hispanic woman and a Registered Nurse working through a pandemic, who is experiencing the current attacks on science, evidence-based care, and ethics has given me a unique perspective on the presidential debates. As a medical professional, I’ve developed a heightened ear toward tuning out the chaos and into the current state of our nation. I invite everyone to be part of the discussion. The importance of this election cannot be overstated. The need to be informed, involved, and brave are all tools we must use during the final stretch of this presidential election. This is not the time to be silent. We must all rise to the moment with eyes wide open. That’s why it is important to watch the debates. Stay informed and use your vote wisely.
Illustration by Octavia Anderson
The Value of Modern Presidential Debates
Johaira Dilauro | Staff Writer
Over 73 million people tuned in to the first Presidential Debate, and were witness to the most chaotic, circus-like representation of American politics. Just weeks away from the Presidential Election, President Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden put on a spectacle that may go down as the most bizarre debate in modern history. The constant interruptions, personal jabs, and snarky remarks were an embarrassing 90 minutes to watch. This debate brought on new levels of unprofessionalism never seen before in an American Presidential Race. This brings in to question the structure of future debates. Although the first debate was a shocking portrayal of our presidential candidates, it provided a space where both parties were given an opportunity to show their true, unscripted values. Viewers had an opportunity to compare both presidential candidates side by side. It gave us a glimpse of how the next four years living in America might look. However ridiculous debates may get, their importance as voter platforms is undeniable.
2020’s first presidential debate included an onslaught of unprofessional behavior that resorted to interruptions, misinformation, and dismissive language to name a few. Trump interrupted Biden and moderator Chris Wallace at least 128 times and Biden interrupted Trump about 12 times. Wallace asked Trump a total of 25 times to “please stop interrupting.” Trump’s track record of lying did not skip out on the night. When Wallace asked President Donald Trump if he would denounce white supremacy, he responded, “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, but I’ll tell you what, somebody’s got to do something about antifa and the left.” He later retracted that statement, stating he did not know who the Proud Boys were. Ironic considering Florida director of Latinos for Trump is the chairman of the Proud Boys. Audiences also got to hear language previously unheard during a presidential debate. This included Biden telling Trump “Will you shut up, man?” And then a few moments later, “keep yapping man.” Trump also went after Hunter Biden, incorrectly stating he was dishonorably dis-