FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi
www.thejsuflash.com
INSIDE
Vol. 79 / No. 17 OPINION Interracial Dating page 3
NEWS
States sue President Trump page 4
February 28, 2019
VA R I E T Y
Jussie Smollett Arrested page 6
S P O RT S
JSU dominates Grambling page 8
Photo by Kalin Norman
Students listen to a representative of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, one of the 70 employers that participated in the 2019 Career Expo.
More than 70 companies recruit Jackson State students during Career Services Career Expo
K’Shatriyah Humphrey Staff Writer
With spring graduation approaching on May 4, many students had an opportunity to partake in a career fair hosted by the Jackson State University Career Services Center. The event took place on Feb. 21, in the Walter Payton Recreation and Wellness Center. Ranging from in-state and out-of-state, over 70 employers were recruiting students to work for their companies upon graduation and even offered advice to interested students who still have years remaining. Unlike the fall Career Expo, the spring event was much bigger and provided more career opportunities for students. “The event was very successful. There were over 350 students in attendance. The employers stated that JSU puts on one of the best Career Expos, if not the best, considering they travel nationwide to recruit,” said Career Services Center Executive Director, Dr. Lashanda Jordan.
Employers waited by their signs, greeted students as they walked passed, and engaged with others who arrived at their vendor stations for information on how to secure a position within their company. Tyerone Harmon, a senior biology major from Alton, Ill., stated that the fair was a great resource with graduation looming in a few months. “It was a great opportunity to explore all of the various corporations that are located across the state and see what potential jobs I could have upon graduation,” said Harmon. Not only did she believe the event was a great opportunity for seniors but also for prospective students looking to obtain a job position post-graduation. “It helps benefit students because in some degree programs, it may be difficult to find potential jobs and careers. A career fair on campus gives students the chance to gain exposure with companies while on campus, so when they graduate, they can have an occupation to start in their career of choice,” Harmon stated.
Business cards were given to students to help them connect with representatives, resumés were taken, and many representatives were impressed with JSU’s students. Not only was the Career Expo a moment for students to meet professionals, but it was also an opportunity for them to hold a one-on-one conversation with the company’s representatives. The outpour of student attendance was due to the constant email alerts sent weekly to student accounts upon the big day. One student, thanks to Tigers2Work— a portal that allows students to access information and direction for their career journey, was able to get a firsthand look at what corporations would be in attendance. “I did not see the email about the career fair until it was too late, but I did have a chance to check and see all of the companies that attended from my Tigers2Work account,” said Vanessa Howard, a senior psychology major from Belzoni, Miss. She continued, “Career Services had everything listed out from the job, the job de-
scription and a contact number on the website. Students were even able to see what positions were open and if they were eligible to apply for that particular job.” If undergraduates were not able to attend the fair in person, they still had a chance to apply for jobs online. On the Career Services Center’s webpage, students can receive additional information regarding different professions, what to wear to an interview, tips on how to how to achieve a successful interview session, and much more. Given that post-graduation employment rates have remained stagnant since 2010-2017, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the purpose of hosting the career fair was to provide a convenient method of support to students who are battling unemployment after college and have a strong desire to work with corporations spanning from business to health. Jordan offers this advice for students who attended the expo. “Students should follow up with employers based on the
YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!
feedback they received from them at the Career Expo. They should also follow-up with thank you emails to further maintain contact and build networks. They should also activate their Tigers2Work account to make contact with those employers and others,” said Jordan. The Career Service Center employees strongly encourages students to activate their account in order to better assist their primary goal of obtaining a job after graduation. The portal is also available for graduates to use as well. The career-readiness team services also include preparing students’ resumes and even creating cover letters for employment and graduate school. Most importantly, in addition to their offered services, they are highly accommodating and supportive during what they understand is a tedious journey for graduating seniors. The Career Services Center is located on the 1st Floor of the Jacob L. Reddix Building, Suite 110. Appointment times are available upon request. The phone number is 601-979-2477.
@JSU_StudentPub
Tiger Events
Page 2 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu
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The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager CLEMENT GIBSON Editor- in-Chief DEJA DAVIS Managing Editor
CIANNA REEVES Managing Editor
DARRIUS BARRON Sports Editor
KALIN NORMAN Photography Editor
Dierius Abby Wakil Atig Zahriah Balentine Kambui Bomani Halle Coleman Anyaah Copeland Joseph Gordon
K’Shatriyah Humphrey Zipporah Jones Christopher Lane Ivory Lowe Luis Montgomery Sunshine Noel Landrie Tchakoua
Letters To The Editor
Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.
Editorial Staff
The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.
Publication/Distribution Information
The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.
Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.
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Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.
Opinion
Page 3 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Graphic by Kalin Norman
No one should feel obligated to date within his or her race COMMENTARY
Cianna Hope Reeves Managing Editor
“If my mom found out I had a black girlfriend, she would kill me.” These were the words
that emphatically rolled off the tongue of my former high school classmate who was secretly in an interracial relationship. For months it was kept under wraps, no holding hands and no walking to class with the one he loved. It was one of those relationships that if you knew, you knew and if you did not know, you would have never guessed. As he shared with me that brutal honesty, the words struck my soul. I witnessed the fright on his face as he mumbled to me a truth that it seemed he did not share until that moment. It was a statement I definitely did not want to take heed to, but I just knew it could not be a lie. My former high school was established in a predominately white rural area, and it was the only school in the district that
students attended if they lived nearby. For decades the school was majority white; however, it would soon be populated with more blacks than whites. It was a drastically different high school environment compared to what my older sister could recall. During her time as a student, the population of black students were 30 percent, while in my high school days the demographics nearly tripled. Interracial dating was common to see as I matriculated throughout high school. I witnessed the transformation of people embracing who they liked, and it was so beautiful to see. Yes, I know it was high school at the moment, but I must admit my class had the tightest connection and strongest bond ever given our different cultural backgrounds. I believed that this usual
act I was experiencing more of each year derived from parents who embedded in their children that racism is dead and skin color does not merely define who a person is—unfortunately, that was not the case. I realized these lessons were taught not by their parents but from the division that plagued the world. After several discussions on topics such as racism in America, I discovered that many decided not to continue to live in a country, a world nor a space that allowed division to overrule unity. So, this brings me back to the comment that resonates in my mind to this day: “If my mom found out I had a black girlfriend, she would kill me.” Scary, right? It was scary that this was a reality. Scary that it was honesty. Scary that his parents
would condemn dating outside of their race. I always wanted to know why my classmate kept his relationship undercover. What would have happened if he openly showcased his blossoming relationship at the time? How would his parents really react? My questions would probably never get answered directly but it makes me think: Why do we sit in silence afraid of what others may think? The validation that we try so hard to obtain from others will only cause us not to live in true happiness. Martin Luther King Jr. said it best, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.” The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
“Do you feel obligated to date inside your race? Why or Why not?” Compiled by Dierius Abby
Loc Le Junior Healthcare Admin. Bay Springs, Miss.
Caria Carter Freshman Biology/Pre-Med Memphis, Tenn.
Jalisa Barnes Freshman Biology Collins, Miss.
Mariyah Williams Junior Communicative Disorde rs Jackson, Miss.
Jermeria Arrington Junior Industrial Technology Camden, Miss.
“No, because I was raised in a different culture but my parents expect me to date inside my race.”
“No, because I’m very diverse with other cultures and religion. Also, I would love to try new things.”
Malik Nelson Senior Biology/Pre-Medicine Detroit, Mich.
“No, but I’d rather show love to my race. I feel as if I would enjoy someone who shares the same culture as me.”
“No, I believe that you should be able to date whoever you want to regardless of race.”
“I believe everyone should date someone on their level. Dating someone should be based on similar interests, views, and so on. In my opinion, race should not be a major factor.”
“It’s not an obligation to date within the black community. Love doesn’t see color, why should I? If I enjoy your company and just you as a person, then why should I limit you to your race?”
Malik Singleton Freshmen Civil Engineering Jackson, Miss.
Ujjwal “JJ” Baskota Senior Computer Science Kathmandu, Nepal
Eryn White Junior Biology Jackson, Miss.
Jeremy Welch Junior Biology Crystal Springs, Miss.
E’Parish Mayhall Senior Biology Cleveland, Miss.
Joseph Rice Freshman Physics Orlando, Fla.
“I do not feel obligated to date inside of my race. Society makes one believe the notion that dating inside of your race is a necessity.”
“No, I don’t feel obligated to date inside of my race. The person you are dating matters more than her race or what she believes in.”
“No, I don’t feel obligated to date inside my race or sex. People are becoming more comfortable with their sexuality and gender and being more vocal and prouder of their lifestyles and that’s something to celebrate.”
“No, I don’t feel obligated to date people inside of my race. True love isn’t based on race.”
“No, I don’t feel obligated to date anybody.”
“No, I don’t feel like it’s mandatory to date your own race. There’s some upside and some downsides but you shouldn’t be quick to judge based on race.”
News
Page 4 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Field to Factory series continues with look at social conditions
Clement Gibson Editor-in-Chief
WJSU 88.5 “Cool and Current” is presenting and producing a four-part radio series titled, “Field to Factory every Sunday in February at 7 p.m. ET. The series was developed by several published forums culminated with a national symposium held on the campus of Jackson State University in the summer of 1989. Part four of the series takes an in depth look at the social conditions of African-Americans, the Klu Klux Klan, social institutions and all that was used to establish them as sub-citizens. Since the slave trade, African-Americans were treated as sub-citizens and these adverse social conditions bred the fight for human rights and social change These conditions were very meager and of course, not acceptable to African-Americans. Former Dean and history professor at JSU, Bennie Reeves, spoke about the everyday struggle black families dealt with. “The family conditions bred some of the social conditions because blacks as families were not permitted into the political, economic and social structures as whites were. Blacks tried to better their conditions even to the point
that they ran away from slavery and revolted against their slave owners. Every day the struggle came in small acts—chopping in the field, but chopping down cotton instead,” said Reeves. The African-American family was not allowed to exist because they were sold off by their white slave owners and treated as property, not as human beings. Furthermore, African-Americans were stripped of their cultural and social heritage. According to Reeves, the social conditions in which the African-Americans faced were validated by several court decisions. He stated, “All of the conditions stemmed from blacks serving as slaves. Even when emancipation was a reality, the black codes, actions of the Klu Klux Klan, the separation by law that came out of the Plessy vs. Ferguson. In fact, it goes back even further than that to Dred Scott vs. Sandford. Chief Justice Taney said that blacks were not anymore citizens of the United States than a zebra was a horse. That you could take a zebra from Africa and erase the stripes it would still be a zebra and that is the way blacks would remain substandard. That the black man had no rights that white people were bound to respect.” Even as America entered the 20th century, conditions continued to deteriorate for Afri-
can-Americans, thus causing thousands to free the south in search of better conditions and opportunities in the north. But wherever African-Americans were, they had to fight for justice and equality. Violence against black Americans continued to escalate. In New York City, a silent parade was conducted by 15,000 African-American’s three months into WWI. They carried signs to protest the race riots and lynchings in American cities. By the end of WWI, about 200 blacks had been lynched. “Blacks were lynched in the streets with their army uniforms on after returning from fighting abroad in Europe. But then the lack of provincialism because Americans moved abroad to fight a war affected black status and many blacks did not come back home to the south. They remained in northern cities,” stated Reeves. Whites tried to erase from the black veteran’s minds any notion of social equality they might have learned in France. Blacks were flogged, branded with acid, tarred and feathered, chained and burned. More than 70 blacks were lynched in the first year after the war. It was during this period that the Klan enjoyed an increase in their membership after years of decline. This growth had been
partly stimulated by the 1915 movie, “Birth of a Nation.” The KKK soon developed other goals that included intimidating those who disagreed with them. The flaming cross served as a warning to all who opposed.
The Klan managed to limit the social mobility of blacks. Blacks were intimidated, denied the opportunity to serve in offices, to move in certain sections of town Continued on page 7
States sue Trump for national emergency declaration to build wall
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Zahriah Balentine Staff Writer
Led by California, 16 states filed a lawsuit in the 9th Circuit Court against the White House’s recent national emergency declaration. The Feb. 18 declaration would allow the bypassing of congress in order to divert money from other areas, including the military, to pay for a wall on the U.S. Mexican border. President Donald Trump predicted the lawsuit last week in a tweet saying, “As I predicted, 16 states lead mostly by open border Democrats and the radical left have filed a lawsuit in, of course, the ninth Circuit! California, the state
that has wasted billions of dollars. They are out of control fast train with no hope of completion seems in charge.” Trump made the declaration after signing a new funding to avoid another government shut down. Trump said that $1.4 billion bill was not enough to address what he said was a crisis at the southern border. The suit was filed in the liberal 9th Circuit where judges have already ruled against the president and nine major cases. It seeks an injunction to stop the president from building a barrier at the border while the case is argued. Markus Brooks, a junior criminal justice major from
Bloomington, Ill., is displeased with the president misusing the separation of powers. “I agree with the 16 states to file a lawsuit on Donald Trump. Those crossing the border are not a military threat. There are clearly other government agencies that need funding. Money that could be spent on other government agencies is being invested into a wall that will not be finished by the time Trumps term is over and will not stop people who are trying to cross the border. This is all about separation of powers and the president is abusing his. There are clear lines when it comes to the separation of powers and the President is willing to go around
Congress to get the wall he wants.” The 16 states argue that it’s not an emergency and the president cannot divert money congress already appropriated for another purpose. Attorney General of California, Xavier Becerra addressed how the president’s national emergency declaration would affect millions of people in other states in an interview with MSNBC. “The president admitted that there’s not a basis for the declaration. He admitted there’s no crisis at the border. He’s now trying to rob funds that were allocated by congress legally to the various states and people of our states,” said Becerra He continued, “The separation of powers is being violated, we’re going to go out there and make sure that Donald Trump cannot steal money from the states and people who need them, since we paid the taxpayer dollars to Washington, D.C., to get those services.” The President said the 1976 law allows him to build the wall because “Narcotics, crime, and a surge of immigrants at the border is a national security risk.” Paola Martinez, a sophomore psychology major from Dallas, Texas., recalls the 9/11 terrorist attack in 2001 and how the borders were affected.
“With me being from Texas, I’ve seen it. It’s bad but he’s basically blowing it out of proportion. He shouldn’t be doing this much over the border because in 2001 when 9/11 happened, it was really bad for all borders, but nobody started building walls so I feel like it’s the same with this situation. You shouldn’t have to build a wall. People jump walls and there are ways to get over. Nothing is impossible and someone that wants to migrate here will migrate here,” she stated. Martinez also mentioned that building a wall is ruining the homes and lives of people who currently live by the border. “I would sue him too! He wants to build a wall on other people’s property, other people’s homes. He’s invading the lives of people that live there. It shouldn’t have to come to this because this is America. As one of our values, we’re known as the melting pot. So, people come here and bring their culture and he’s stopping that. He stopping what are forefathers wanted,” she declared. This national emergency declaration can play out for a year. According to the Brennan Center, there have been 58 national emergencies between 1978 and 2018. Out of all national emergencies, 31 are still in effect today.
Little Known Black History Fact: Matthew Henson, Explorer
Zipporah Jones
Staff Writer
Most history books will note that the first man to reach the North Pole was Robert Peary, on April 6, 1909, but this is not entirely true. In fact, Robert Peary’s journey to the North Pole may have not been possible without a man named Matthew Henson. It is known, but often forgotten that Matthew Henson, accompanied Robert Peary on this expedition to the North Pole. According to Biography.com, Henson was born in Charles County, Md. in 1866 to a family of freeborn sharecroppers. At the age of 11, he left home to find work, and eventually, after working at a restaurant in Baltimore, Md., he found a job as a cabin boy on the ship Katie Hines. During his time on the Katie Hines he was taught to read and write by Captain Childs according to Unmuseum.org. Childs also taught Henson about seamanship and navigation. While on the Katie Hines, Henson traveled to many parts of
the world, including Asia, Africa, and Europe. According to Unmuseum.org, after Captain Childs Died in 1884, Henson went back to Washington, D.C., where he began to work as a clerk at a hat shop. This is where he met Peary. Peary, impressed by Henson’s knowledge on seafaring, hired Henson to be his valet on his upcoming expedition to Nicaragua. A long partnership between Pearson and Henson sprung from this, and they soon were navigating many lands together. For about 20 years the Henson and Peary worked together, exploring harsh landscapes according to biography.com. Reaching the North Pole was a mission that these two men were determined to accomplish. In fact, the men had tried to reach it in previous missions, but had failed because of the harsh conditions. According to Nationalgeographic.com, the final attempt Henson and Pearson made to reach the North Pole was in 1908. Henson, an expert dog sledder, hunter, craftsman, functioned as a guide and navigator during the
expedition. Henson had also gained relationship with the Inuit people who lived in these harsh conditions. According to Biography.com, he was so familiar with the Inuit that he became fluent in their language. According to Biography.com, the journey was harsh, and even though they started off with 24 men and 133 dogs, they ended the journey with only six men, including Pearson and Henson and only 40 dogs. Although there is speculation surrounding this topic, Henson is believed to be the first man, black or white to actually reach the North Pole. During the journey, Pearson may had fallen very ill, and may have stayed behind while Henson went on to place the American flag at the North Pole according to Litosaur.com. According to Nationalgeographic.com, after the expedition, Pearson was credited with reaching the North Pole, while Henson’s part was fully ignored. For several years, Henson had not received recognition for what he had done. According to Biography.com, in 1937, 70-year old Henson finally received some recognition and was accepted by the Explorers Club in New York as an honorary member in 1944, he received a Congressional Medal.
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According to nationalgeographic.com, Henson died in 1955, but was posthumously awarded the Hubbard Medal, National Geographic’s highest honor for exploration, in 2000. Although he was buried in New York City’s Woodlawn Cemetery in 1955, his remains along with his wife’s were moved to the Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C at the request of Dr. S. Allen, Counter of Harvard University, to the president at the time, Ronald Reagan, according to
arlingtoncemetery.mil. This burial place was much deserved by Henson, a man who took risks and ventured out into the unknown in the name of exploration. Henson, largely forgotten in history because of the prejudices that existed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely contributed future explorations in the North Pole. Henson should be remembered as a pioneer who paved a way for many explorers for years to come.
The Blue & White Flash
Page 5 - February 28, 2019
1.
Career Expo
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3.
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All Photos Kalin Norman
1-5) More than 350 students participated in the 2019 Career Expo sponsored by the Career Services Center.
5.
Variety
Page 6 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Jussie Smollett arrested for allegedly faking attack Halle Coleman
Staff Writer
The alleged attack on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett has developed into a three-week investigation ultimately ending with his arrest. According to CNN.com, Smollett is now being accused of not only lying about his attack, but also being involved with paying for the attack to happen. On Jan. 29, news broke of the initial attack in Chicago. Smollett, who is both black and openly gay, claimed he was attacked around 2 a.m. near his apartment while walking back from Subway by two men. He told police that the men yelled racial and homophobic slurs at him, tied a rope around his neck to mimic a noose, and poured bleach onto him. One of the assailants also yelled, “This is MAGA country,” during the alleged attack. The attack was being investigated by Chicago police, and was investigated as a possible hate crime. Photos of a visibly bruised Smollett via FaceTime screenshots were released to the media by Empire producer Lee Daniels. A week before the reported attack, a letter with a white substance on it arrived at Chicago Cinespace Studio. The envelope read “MAGA” in red ink, presumably in reference to President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan.
The letter contained a homophobic death threat towards Smollett spelled out in cut-up letters. There was also a drawing of a stick figure man with a gun pointed at his head. Police later released a photo of the two persons of interest that was captured on surveillance footage. Suspicions arose on social media as to why the attack itself was not captured. The two suspects were later identified as Nigerian brothers Ola and Abel Osundairo. They claimed that they were paid by Smollett to concoct the hoax. Both brothers told Chicago police that Smollett created the “threatening letter” himself and used aspirin to create the white residue. When it did not receive the proper reaction, Smollett suggested the staged attack a week later. When police searched their home, a magazine with the same font as the letter was discovered. Rope, masks, and bleach were also found. Both brothers were released without charge after disclosing their side of the story to police. Chicago police claim the questioning of the brothers shifted the trajectory of the investigation. It has been determined that Ola Osundairo worked on the set of Empire previously playing a background prisoner. Many were shocked to find out that Smollett could have possibly been involved with the attack. David Benard, a freshman political science major from
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Clinton, Miss. expressed his concerns. “I do believe that it’s not ok to lie about anything in the court of law,” he stated, “It will be held against you and people will look at you as unreliable and undependable. Ultimately they won’t trust you,” said Benard. A teary-eyed Smollett appeared on Good Morning America on Feb. 14 to clear his name. “At first, it was like, listen, if I tell the truth, then that’s it, because it’s the truth,” Smollett said, “And then it became a thing
of like, oh, it’s not necessarily that you don’t believe that this is the truth, you don’t even want to see the truth.” On Feb. 21, Smollett was officially arrested on the felony charges of disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report. Chicago police reported that Smollett paid the two brothers $3,500 to stage the attack because he was unhappy with his salary on Empire. Text messages read aloud in court revealed that Smollett
gave the brothers $100 to buy the supplies for the attack. Smollett was ordered to surrender his passport and his bail was set $100,000. He posted bond. Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx has recused herself from the case. First Assistant State’s Attorney Joseph Magats will step in as acting state’s attorney for the investigation. As the investigation continues, Smollett has been cut from upcoming Empire episodes.
Cheating, sex tapes and winning trending in news this week Deja Davis
Managing Editor “Whew chilé.” This week in trending topics, the Kardashians’ cut off Kylie Jenner’s BFF Jordan Woods, R. Kelly posts bail, and Spike Lee finally gets recognized at the Oscar’s. Jordyn Woods and Tristan Thompson Scandal On Feb. 19, news broke out that the best friend of Kylie Jenner and also one of the main close friends of the Kardashian family allegedly messed around with NBA player Tristan Thompson, also known as the baby father of Khloe Kardashians daughter True Thompson. Social media users peeped that the whole Kardashian family unfollowed Woods, 21, from all social media outlets such as Twitter and Instagram. It released that Woods is blaming the alleged hook up on alcohol use. Thompson is denying all encounters but it looks like there will be more tea to sip. It looks like Woods is about to tell her side of the story. According to people.com on
Tuesday, Feb. 26., the 21-yearold model briefly went live via Instagram to show followers a video of herself walking to a table, signifying that she will be taking a seat on Jada Pinkett Smiths Facebook watch show, Red Table Talk that is streaming Friday, Mar. 1. R. Kelly out on bond after spending three nights in jail More than a decade ago after surviving a publicized trial R. Kelly was back in police custody on Friday, accused of sexual misconduct involving four victims, three of whom were minors at the time. Surrounded by cameras, Kelly turned himself in to police around 8:15 p.m. at the Central District station and officers were shown putting Kelly in handcuffs. Earlier on Monday, the 52-year-old R&B singer appeared in a Chicago courtroom wearing an orange jumpsuit for his hearing. The R&B singer was charged with 10 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. On Saturday, a Chicago judge set his bond at $1 million. The singer’s attorney, Steve Greenberg said Kelly was struggling to come up with the $100,000, which
was the required 10 percent of the bond to get him released. Monday afternoon, the Cook County sheriff ’s confirmed that Kelly, 52, had posted bond and would be released from jail soon. It turns out that a fan that met the singer on a cruise five months ago, Valencia Love posted $100,000 to help Kelly win his freedom. On court paperwork, Love described herself as a “friend” of Kelly’s. The singer’s next court date is set for March 22. Spike Lee finally receives an Oscar award On Sun, Feb. 24. Samuel L. Jackson and Brie Larson presented the screenplay awards at this year’s Oscars. 30 years after ‘Do the Right Thing’ Lee was recognized with a win for Best Adapted Screenplay for BlacKKKlansman. Before his name was read, the reaction of his longtime friend Samuel L. Jackson gave it away. Lee beamed as he walked onto the stage to accept his award and leaped into Jackson’s arms in joy for a hug. During his acceptance speech he thanked his grandmother for encouraging him and also for supporting him.
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“My grandmother who saved 50 years of social security checks to put her first grandchild, she called me Spikey-Poo, she put me through Morehouse College and NYU grad film”, said Lee. “Before the world tonight, I give praise to our ancestors who built this country, along with the genocide its native people.”
Lee ended his speech on Sunday with a call to action. “The 2020 presidential election is around the corner. Let’s all mobilize, let’s all be on the right side of history. Make the moral choice between love versus hate. Let’s do the right thing!” he ended with a standing ovation.
Sabrina Howard art exhibit will feature live painting and jazz Rachel James-Terry
JSU Communications On Thursday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. inside Jackson State University’s Gallery1, 101 E. Capitol St, the public will meet artist Sabrina Howard at the official launch of her art exhibit ‘Who is Sabrina Howard?’ “I call myself an artist of all trades. Some people only know me as Sabrina, the graphic artist. Some people only know me as Sabrina, the fine artist. Some people think I only create props; stand-alone props for parties and events,” says the Jackson native, who received her BFA degree from the Atlanta College of Art in ’95. By day, Howard works as a graphic artist at A2Z Printing, and in her spare time she paints, draws and creates gripping works that have been gifted to the likes of popular neo-soul singer Maxwell and comedian and actor Rickey Smiley. Howard can often be found doing live painting as a featured artist at Synergy Nights – a creative arts spot in Jackson that allows locals and out-of-towners an opportunity to display their skills, whether it is spoken word, singing, rapping or playing a
musical instrument. Shonda McCarthy, director of JSU galleries, is spearheading the exhibit. She calls Howard an amazingly talented, truly blessed and gifted artist. “She is a true storyteller, and emotion is conveyed in every piece. We also appreciate how some of her pieces are from recycled items. After meeting her, you can tell that she is truly passionate about her work,”
explains McCarthy. “Just when you think you fell in love with one piece another one emerges. Not sure which is sweeter, her or the art. It’s a tough decision.” Howard first remembers “creating” at the age of three and four years old. Now in her 40s and a mother of four children – one girl and three boys – Howard is ready for people to get a better sense of who she is and what she has to offer.
“Most of my paintings are life stories and experiences on canvas or whatever material I decide to use. There are references to spirituality, relationships, life, and children in just about all my pieces,” says Howard. “They are directly related to me or someone close to me. They all tell a story.” On Feb. 28, guests can watch Howard painting live while Pam Confer, jazz vocalist, sings
selections from her album “Jazz Beautiful.” The event is free to the public. Although Howard has participated in various art shows with other artists, she says: “This is my first time having just my show with just my name. This is huge for me. I’m excited. It’s different knowing that when people come to this show, they are coming to see Sabrina Howard.”
Page 7 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Field-to-Factory, Continued from page 4
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and denied the opportunity to defend themselves in court. These social conditions rendered black people as second-class citizens. Noted actor and playwright, Ossie Davis recalls a childhood experience when the Klan threatened his father. “My father was a railway engineer. A man with no formal training but taught himself how to lay railroad tracks. He had a job working with a section gang and was the only black man in that part of Georgia doing so… The Klan did not take kindly to the idea of my father—a black man being the head of a section on the railroad. To them, that was a white man’s job… One day, my momma and I came out and there was a stick in the yard and it had been split and in the split was a letter…When she opened it, there was a pistol and a bullet going into a heart and the heart going into a coffin…My mother took the letter, a pistol and walked two miles to the railroad to give them to my father…Nothing happened, but it was growing up in the presence of the threat that made me secure from the threat. That determined my life,” said Davis. By the time the war in Europe had ended, the Klan had extended their campaign to include Catholics, immigrants, Jews, Orientals, union leaders and radicals of all types. Klan officials claimed a membership of five million and branches were set up in north cities and towns as well. In the midst of violence, African-American’s had to look to their own social institutions for hope. The family and church early on became the channels for which blacks could show expression and release. Before blacks were permitted to have their own churches, they would sit in the balconies of the white churches. Then they were brought down to sit in front so that the whites could watch them and the minister would pray and preach a sermon separately— one for the blacks, one for the whites. Blacks then began to organize what was known as invisible church in the woods. They met there to sing their spirituals, gospels and songs that relieved them of frustrations and gave them hope for a life beyond America. Although the church represented a symbol of unity, it also reflected the class structure within the black community. Former professor of journalism at JSU, Doris Saunders, chimed in on the social structures of black churches. Saunders stated, “The church the people went to usually reflection the class structure…The Episcopal Church in the south had a very small number of black people, but they were generally speaking the higher-class economical lens socially. Next in terms of the social strata was the AME— African Methodist Episcopal church, which attracted to a large degree professionals, educators and those who were in other lines of employment that permitted them to have a certain degree of status and economic security… Then the CME (Colored Methodist Episcopal initially before changing colored to Christian), Baptist and COGIC— Church of God in Christ, were more evangelical in their approach, and often filled country, less financially secure members. All of them had a great deal of influence on their membership and looked to their pastors for leadership.” There were other social insti-
tutions and outlets blacks turned to besides the church like aid societies, virial societies, masons and eastern stars. These institutions provided social interactions with each other as well as saving the race from self-destruction. In every major city, there was a coming together of blacks in specific places— Farish Street in Jackson, Moccasin Bottom in Vicksburg, Beale Street in Memphis or Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Social programs were a part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s new deal. It was the first time in the 20th century that federal officials showed concern for the plight of blacks Black assistant secretaries were appointed to be the liaison to the black community. The new deal was good for some, but not for all blacks, especially those in the rural south. Roosevelt’s death in 1985 served as the end to the new deal. The Supreme Court of the United States threw out the new deal. War and post par periods struck down laws that denied equality for African-Americans. The court found unconstitutional a Virginia law that required a Negro on an interstate bus had to move to the rear to make way for a white passenger in 1946. In 1950, it ruled that a Negro could not be denied a seat in a dining car in an interstate train. The full integration of the armed forces occurred during the Korean War. African-American replacements were channeled into previously white units. Black men and white men fought side by side on all fronts to stem the advances of Korean and Chinese forces. Two African-Americans were among those who won the Congressional Medal of Honor. Saunders credits former black U.S. Congressman from Illinois, William L. Dawson, for influencing President Harry Truman to desegregate the armed forces. “Dawson showed him through demonstration by giving him facts and figures and not pushing him, showed him where the armed services as long as they remained separate could not serve the American public well. That it was expensive, counter-productive and increased the differences between people rather than bringing them together because it is very hard to fight for one world if you are fighting it with two separate and unequal armies,” said Saunders. While important progress had been made towards securing equality in America, both silent resistance and open opposition to African-American advances continued. Christmas night, 1951, Harry T. Moore and his wife died when a bomb exploded beneath their Florida home. Both were leaders in the state NAACP to register more blacks to vote. Those guilty of this crime has never been brought to justice. Southern blacks who fought in the integrated army in Korea knew their hometowns would deny them a cup of coffee in a diner, decent public restroom or home in a white neighborhood. Northern blacks who returned from battle knew that segregation by custom would return them to the worst schools and lowest paying jobs. This was just as damaging as segregation by law in the south. The African-American’s growing pride in himself as an American and mounting anger with those who denied him his rights, were moving him to dramatic and decisive actions by the 1950s.
6th Annual “Whispers in the Cedars” Tour Wintergreen Cemetery, Port Gibson, Mississippi March 8th & 9th Every half hour beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling 601-437-5097 or email pinnixdesignsinc@gmail.com
Sports
Page 8 - February 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
JSU dominates Grambling in basketball action
Wakil Atig
Sports Writer The Tigers of Jackson State University hosted the Grambling State University Tigers in a conference matchup on Saturday, Feb. 23. Coming off a debilitating loss to Texas Southern University, JSU looked to redeem themselves— and they did exactly that. In the first half, JSU got off to a dominant start. Everything from blocking shots, rebounding the ball, and being patient on offense. Freshman forward, Jayveous McKinnis set the tone for JSU with an earth-shaking alley-oop dunk from junior guard, Venjie Wallis. McKinnis had a total five dunks in the game. Three of those dunks came by way of alley-oop. He finished the game with a firm 16 points and 7 rebounds. As the first half continued, Grambling State began to press JSU on defense, causing them to turn the ball over. GSU capitalized by draining three-pointers to keep them afloat in the game. GSU made a total of six three’s in the game. Despite Grambling State’s full-court pressuring defense and three-point shooting, JSU still maintained the lead for the majority of the first half and lead by as man as 14 points. Senior guard, William Brown gave a solid effort off bench. He was the heart and soul of JSU offense in the first half. His relentless attack to the basket and aggressiveness on defense gave JSU the confidence they needed to compete.
Brown finished the game with a solid 11 points off the bench. As the first half ended, JSU took full control of the game on both ends. Grambling simply could not find a rhythm offensively and lacked intensity on defense. JSU adjusted to Grambling’s full-court pressuring defense by simply being patient and moving the ball. This allowed JSU to score easy buckets in transition. JSU lead 38-24 at halftime. At the start of the second half, both teams struggled initially. Sloppy ball movement and careless decisions on offense by JSU allowed Grambling to make a 6-0 run, cutting into the lead. This run would be short lived as JSU turned their defensive pressure through the roof by trapping in the defenders. JSU’s half court traps neutralized Grambling State’s offense and as a result, JSU lead by as many 17 points in the second half. The leader scorer for JSU was senior guard Chris Howell, who was sensational in the second half. He was the energy that carried JSU for the second half. Everything from knocking down pivotal shots when it counted and getting to the freethrow line. He finished the game with 17 points and 7 rebounds. As the second half continued, JSU continued to dominant the game despite a late game run by Grambling State. JSU went on to defeat Grambling State, 71-60 in conference play. The Lady Tigers of Jackson State also had a dominant performance Saturday night as they crushed the Lady Tigers of Grambling State University. Five
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players from JSU scored in double figures. Junior Marnesha Hamer had a stellar night finishing with 24 points and 14 rebounds. Her aggressiveness offensively propelled the Lady Tigers confidence in the game. Fellow junior, Kaisah Lucky dropped 15 points and dished out a game high 8 assists. Senior Christina Ellis added a pivotal 13 points and locked Grambling State’s best defender forcing her to turn the ball over a total of 10 times.
Sophomore Antionette Womack and freshman Taylor Latimore each contributed a solid 10 points each. JSU was just too much as they lead by as many as 30 points in the third quarter. In the end Grambling State got outworked. They never had a chance to gain momentum in this game as JSU never took their foot of the gas. JSU’s Lady Tigers defeated Grambling State 89-60 in conference play. NaKaela Cobb, a freshman
social work major from Chicago said, “Tonight’s game was lit! I’m so glad both teams won. Games like this make me proud to be a student at Jackson State.” Keimyia Lewis, a freshman social work major from Chicago enjoyed the excitement from the dunks, dancers and band. “The game was very exciting, a lot of slam dunks made the game super lit. I also enjoyed the performance by the Prancing Jsettes and Sonic Boom,” said Lewis.
Los Angeles Lakers continue to struggle late in the season Darrius Barron
Sports Editor
The Los Angeles Lakers have been a primetime NBA franchise since the inception of the NBA. Having won 16 titles across the Basketball Association of America (BAA) and the NBA, the Lakers have earned the reputation of one of the league’s most successful franchises; second only to the Boston Celtics, who have 17 championships. Lately, the NBA world has grown a sense of doubt in the franchise’s ability to win another championship and tie their biggest rival in the Boston Celtics. Since winning their last championship in 2010 with a team led by Kobe Bryant— who was arguably one of the greatest players in the NBA since Michael Jordan retired in 2003, the Lakers maintained a playoff spot for the following three seasons. They suffered a loss in the first round of the western conference playoffs in 2013, the Lakers have been left out of NBA championship talks and neglected by NBA superstars. Laker fans watched with broken hopes as top teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors all compete at a high level
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for an NBA championship. This past off season when Lebron James made his move to Los Angeles public, but even with having a new “King” in Los Angeles, the Lakers still struggle with collecting wins. As the final two months of the 2018-19 regular season approaches, Lebron James and the Lakers sit at the 11th spot in the western conference seeding, leaving them 14 games behind the first seed Golden State Warriors, and tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves who are in the 10th seed. Instead of the Golden State
Warriors’ chances at another championship, or the Houston Rockets’ chances at dethroning Golden State; the biggest NBA concern now is whether or not Lebron’s NBA finals streak is over. Ransford Offei, a JSU alumnus from Chicago, Ill., feels strongly about Lebron being able to lead the Lakers to the NBA finals and actually win. “They can, but it will not be based off of Lebron’s leadership. They will have to put the right pieces in place. What fits perfect for the Lakers? Let’s be honest, he led one team to the finals by himself,
and they got swept; and that team was the 2007 Cleveland Cavaliers,” Offei said. Since leading what was considered to be the worst team in the playoffs last season to the finals, Lebron was expected to lead the Lakers to yet another finals appearance, and hopefully another championship. At the start of the season, fans were excited, the players were excited, it seemed as if everyone was ready to become a unit and achieve success. No one knows for sure where it all went wrong for the Lakers this season. No matter if he had a hand in it or not, lots of people fault Lebron James for the front office’s efforts to acquire Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans. Trade packages for the 6’10, 253lb, all around superstar included much of the Lakers’ young talent pool and several critical draft picks. After toying with the Lakers’ front office for weeks, Pelicans’ front office staff ultimately declined all offers from the Lakers to acquire Davis. Some NBA fans think that a better talent pool is needed in order for the Lebron to be successful during his time in Los Angeles. Dontelius Ross, a senior interdisciplinary study major from Jackson, Miss., said: “right now, with the young players they
have, I don’t think they can [win a championship].” Fans are concerned that the chemistry that was once shared at the start if the season has evaporated. Now, veteran players like Michael Beasley and many others have reportedly gotten into an altercation with Lakers’ head coach, Luke Walton. To no surprise, according to CBS Sports, there has even been a rift between Luke Walton and Lebron’s camp. Much like every other team Lebron has played for, there has been a problem between either Lebron and the coach, or Lebron’s camp and the coach. Considering Lebron’s history with coaches, and the fact that other players have almost gotten physical with Luke Walton, this time may be different and Lebron maybe is not to blame. However, some people do not view the situation like that. The Lakers have two months to make a playoff push in the most competitive conference in the NBA. Lebron has been known to make the seemingly impossible happen before, can he pull it off in Laker land? To hear more about the NBA, tune into “At the Whistle”, a podcast hosted by the Blue & White Flash on YouTube. JSUBlueWhiteFlash is the YouTube channel, and ATW is the podcast name.
Zion Williamson injury sparks talk of paying college athletes Tamera McCook
Sports Writer
There has long been a debate regarding whether the NCAA should pay college athletes for their services. This debate has been sparked again with the recent injury to Duke University player Zion Williamson. Williamson, who has been predicted to be the first overall draft pick in the 2019 NBA draft, was injured while facing the North Carolina Tar Heels on Feb. 20. His injury was caused by a shoe malfunction that led to a sprained right knee. Since Williamson’s injury, the question has been raised whether he should shut it down for this season or continue to play basketball at the college level. While many may feel this is an easy question to answer, could dictate the rest of his career. If Williamson decides to keep playing this season, he could potentially jeopardize his career
before it even starts. Duke University had the number one ranked men’s college basketball team in the country at the time. According to Bleacher Report, the ticket cost for Duke’s rival game against the University of North Carolina was anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. The NCAA is able to regulate its ticket prices because of the players and the excitement they bring to the game. While the NCAA pockets are getting fatter by the second, the players who put in all the work for this to be possible are busting out of shoes 30 seconds into the game. Thankfully the injury Williamson sustained was not career ending, but it could have been. Many athletes, who have the skillset to go pro, only attend college because they have to. Since 2006, the NBA implemented a rule that players have to be 19, and one year out of high school in order to be
eligible for the NBA draft. Due to this, many basketball players choose to play one year in college. Many of today’s current NBA athletes who followed the one and done rule, flourished in their professional career and received big contracts. As these players make it to the next level, their dreams are turned into reality. They are now able to take care of themselves and their families as well, something they could only dream of in college. While in college, the NCAA prohibits its athletes from taking money or any financial assets. It is a violation of the rules they have set in place. Chris Webber, a notable member of the Fab Five, who played basketball at the University of Michigan, was stripped of his accolades and achievements when it was discovered that he and other players had received money and gifts during his tenure there. Not only was he punished, but the entire school was punished as
well; their championship banner and achievements were removed from the record books. According to Jalen Rose, also a member of the Fab Five, while in college, he had no money to eat or put gas in his car some days, but their jerseys were selling for hundreds of dollars. Rose saw that his product was being sold to consumers, and although he was taking all of the risk, he never saw a dime! In 2011, Rose stated that he believed college athletes should receive a stipend of $2,000 each semester. “College athletes are indentured servants and this stipend would help avoid the temptation of unscrupulous boosters and other pitfalls,” said Rose. Many professional athletes are calling for Zion to shut it down for the remainder of the season so that he does not get hurt and lower his draft stock, or even worse— damage his future before cashing out in the NBA. While some may say that it
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would be selfish for Williamson to look out for himself, others call it genius. Right now, the only thing Williamson is receiving from playing the game he loves is satisfaction. He just loves the game and has proven that he would play whether he was being paid or not. Some experiences are simply priceless.