The Daily Egyptian - February 21, 2024

THE

SCHOLASTIC JOURNALISM WEEK

Daily Egyptian SERVING THE SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY SINCE 1916.

DAILYEGYPTIAN.COM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

VOL. 107, ISSUE 22

Salukis cut down No. 23 Sycamores SIU beats first ranked opponent since 2013

Jamilah Lewis jlewis@dailyegyptian.com

Clarence Rupert (4) waves the SIU flag as the Salukis take down No. 23 Indiana State at home Feb. 17, 2024 at Banterra Center in Carbondale, Illinois. Simeon Hardley| @SimShardPhotography

Survivor Empowerment Center seeking donations due to shelter influx

Carly Gist | cgist@dailyegyptian.com

The Survivor Empowerment Center is asking the southern Illinois community to collect donations for the domestic violence shelter.

On Sunday, the center posted on Facebook, “There has been a significant influx in our population. Really [tough] times for lots of individuals.”

The shelter is running low on blankets, single sheet sets, pillows, towels, shampoo and conditioner. New and gently used items are acceptable. Money donations can be made on its website, empoweringsurvivors.org or through the Taste of Chocolate fundraiser page.

PayPal, Debit, and Credit cards are accepted.

The shelter is open 24/7, so donations can be brought in at any time. The Facebook page commented that items should be brought to the shelter door, which is “the last door on [the] north side” at 610 S. Thompson St. in Carbondale.

Administration hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“We greatly appreciate any and all assistance,” the post reads.

The Survivor Empowerment Center’s mission, according to its website, is “to end domestic violence and sexual assault in Southern Illinois and to assist survivors of these crimes and their non-offending significant others.”

The center’s services include education and training, all-inclusive survivor support and victim advocacy.

It works to provide a safe space and resources to all people in Southern Illinois who have been impacted by domestic abuse.

The website states, “Our services are confidential, free of charge and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to women, men, adolescents & children in Franklin, Jackson, Johnson, Perry, Saline, Williamson, Union and Gallatin counties.”

SIU men’s basketball (17-10, 9-7) pulled off one of the best upsets in years on Saturday night, taking down No. 23 Indiana State (22-5, 13-3) at a packed Banterra Center for the team’s first ranked win since 2013.

Although Sycamore center Robbie Avila led the game with 30 points on the night, Saluki guard Xavier Johnson matched his contributions with 23 points and nine rebounds as the potential Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year candidates battled.

“Our guys had an incredible spirit about themselves tonight,” Saluki head coach Bryan Mullins said. “What we do works, and

works at the highest level, and if we play like that, we can beat anyone.”

Avila hit eight shots and scored 19 points in the first half as the Sycamores took an early lead; up as much as 11 in the last three minutes of the period, before the Salukis climbed back to cut the halftime lead to 37-31.

Southern would finish its comeback in the second half, as the rest of the game saw both teams battle back-and-forth for the lead.

“Our guys play the right way on both sides of the ball,” Mullins said. “Executed offensively, took care of the ball in the second half, INDIANA STATE | 4

Arbor District residents take a stand against slumlords at city council meeting Jamilah Lewis jlewis@dailyegyptian.com

Social media in the Carbondale area is often flooded with complaints about landlords and housing units with mold, falling fixtures and even, occasionally, issues with raw sewage backing up in bathrooms. Many housing owners around town have a reputation for being slumlords.

The people of Carbondale gathered Tuesday Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. at the City Council meeting at Carbondale to give their opinions on the proposed Rental Agent Licensing ordinance. It is designed to help the city enforce housing codes, according to a press release from the Arbor District Neighborhood Association.

In the 1970s, the city made several programs to motivate landlords to comply with the standards set by the city including mandatory inspections added in 1994. When that didn’t ARBOR DISTRICT | 4

A building in the middle of construction within the Arbor District Feb. 17, 2024 on West Cherry Street in Carbondale, Illinois.

Simeon Hardley| @SimShardPhotography

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Page 2 | Entertainment and Culture

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Love at the Glove Photos take by: Daylin Williams Lumber Jill lip syncing and dancing for the crowd.

Lumber Jill in their 1st performance for the crowd, Feb. 16, 2024 at Surplus Gallery in Carbondale, Illinois.

Korra DeVil in a dramatic pose.

Lumber Jill doing a headstand to show off their flexibility for the crowd.

Entertainment and Culture | Page 3

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Jasmine Thompson jasminethompson@dailyegyptian.com

As the sun rises on a chilly and calm morning in February, the first of six exasperating alarms blasts throughout Carly’s dorm room. Although it’s already 8 am, it will take those next five alarms leading up to 9:30 am for her to finally get up to start her day.

“I try to wake up earlier in the morning, around 9 to 9:30 am, so I can get my online classes done because my journalism ones are both online in the morning,” Gist said.

Gist is a bright-eyed and ambitious freshman, who is fuelled by a deep passion for the art of writing and storytelling. Whether it’s through articles, short stories or even fiction writing, Gist has a natural talent for crafting compelling narratives that captivate audiences. With an insatiable appetite for creative expression, Gist is constantly honing her craft and experimenting with new writing techniques to bring her ideas to life.

“When I was younger, growing up, it was kind of my childhood dream to be an author,” Gist said, “but then I wanted to be a physical therapist, so I took a program in my hometown called the Medical Professions Academy,” She had realized that she didn’t like science. As she and her parents were considering colleges to apply to, she expressed uncertainty about what field of study she wanted to pursue.

“I knew that I didn’t want to study science anymore, but I still liked to write, which is something I’d like to do my whole life,” Gist said.

So, she spoke with an advisor from

A day in the life of a student journalist that skill.

“I decided that I would try that out.

So, I got a job with the Daily Egyptian in the first semester, which showed me that I enjoy journalism. Like, it’s a good way for me to use that skill of writing, but I also get to tell other people’s stories, and I think that’s cool,” Gist said.

Gist has written many of Daily Egyptian most popular articles this past year and this year such as “Dorm Maintenance Issues Raise Concern on Campus, Bugs Not a Priority”, “Dynamic Eclipse Broadcast Initiative to be Highlight of eclipse viewing”, “Saluki Athletics Partners with Police to provide coats for youth in Carbondale’’, etc. (These articles and more can be found on Dailyegyptian.com) “Another one was a story I did for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and that one was just a bit challenging because it was only the second article I’d ever written, and that’s a topic that I’m passionate about because my mom, she works at a domestic violence shelter, so I grew up volunteering for those events,” Gist said, “I wanted to make sure that story got told, but because it was only my second article, I was worried I wasn’t gonna do it justice,” she continued.

Gist’s approach to storytelling is a testament to her dedication to her craft. Her commitment to her work is evident in every article she writes and it’s clear that her passion for storytelling has only grown stronger with time.

“I think my best way of being a storyteller is making sure that I get my research done before I start to write

“So when I was younger, growing up, it was kind of my childhood dream to be an author,” - Carly Gist Journalism student

one of the colleges in her hometown, and then also with her parents, and they suggested looking into journalism because it would be a good way to use

it, and before I come up with the questions, making sure that I know a lot about the person’s background before I interview them,” Gist said.

Journalism major Carly Gist poses for a portrait Wednesday February 14, 2024 at the Student Center where she often studies, at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. Photos by Enan Chediak

She has class at 10 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Her first class of the day is English, followed by child psychology at 11 am.

“On Fridays, I have an honor seminar, which is Empathy Through the Arts, and that one I think is through the College of Arts and Media, so it’s not necessarily journalism, but we’re learning about like different art forms, right now we’ve been working on selfportraits, so that’s been kind of cool,” Gist said.

She has only one class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m., an honor seminar called “The Social History of Rock and Roll”. This class teaches about the history of rhythm and blues and the different genres of rock and roll.

Gist also is very involved around campus through many clubs and organizations.

“Since I didn’t know if journalism was what I wanted to study, I made sure to join a lot of the clubs that involve journalism to get a feel of it,” Gist said.

“On Tuesdays, I have the Daily Egyptian meetings, and then Thursdays, I have meetings for AdLab, which is the advertising club that takes place at 3 pm, and then on Fridays, I have meetings with Ford Grassroots Magazine, I’m a fiction editor for them,”

Gist discussed about her schedule.

Gist’s exposure to different life stories has had a profound impact on her own life. Listening to people’s experiences and challenges has allowed her to gain a deeper understanding of the world around her and has helped shape her perspective. By using storytelling as a tool to connect with others and share their stories, Gist has not only become a better writer but also a more empathetic and compassionate person.

“I interviewed Winnifred Hahn, she took her dance company to SIU and they did a residency... when I was talking to Hahn, I asked her a little bit about how she got into dance and how she found that that was what she wanted to do and she said that growing up, she also thought that she wanted to be a physical therapist and that, she was taking the classes and she wasn’t enjoying it. She had asked her mom about it, and her mom had told her something like, ‘If you’re not enjoying the process, then you’re not gonna enjoy the outcome.’” Gist said.

“Just like, hearing that, and being able to relate to it was cool. Honestly, I took that as a sign, because I was still kind of holding on to it like, ‘Oh, I used to want to be a physical therapist’... I just think that was something that I

needed to hear,” she said.

For many writers, the joy of writing lies not just in the act of crafting a story but also in the ability to share it with others. Knowing that their words have touched someone’s heart or inspired them in some way can be a profound experience. For those passionate about storytelling, the appreciation and recognition of their work can be a great motivator to keep writing and honing their craft. However, the true reward often lies in helping others bring their stories to life and giving a voice to those who may not have had the opportunity to share their experiences otherwise.

Gist said, “Writing has always been my favorite hobby, so it makes me happy to know that people are complimenting it and that they appreciate my work.

But honestly, it makes me feel even better just knowing that people are getting their stories out there.”

In the time since she has started her journalism career with the Daily Egyptian, Gist has won two Illinois College Press Association awards in the Critical Review - Other than Film category.

Staff reporter Jasmine Thompson can be reached at jasminethompson@dailyegyptian.com

Page 4 | News

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Column: We can finally beat anyone

Brandyn Wilcoxen @brandynwilcoxen

It only takes a visit to Banterra Center on game day to understand the magic that surrounds Saluki basketball.

But while the stands are reliably full, there’s one place that’s been empty for a long time. Its silence rings loudly among the roar of the crowd, casting a long shadow over the program as it lingers longer and longer.

The banners are lonely at the Banterra Center.

This gap in SIU’s history is accentuated by the new wordmark, which made its debut on the women’s basketball team’s 2022 Valley regular season title and NIT appearances banners. All of the other banners at Banterra, including the men’s team’s

INDIANA STATE CONTINUED FROM 1

and they were really instinctive and decisive.”

The lead would change 11 times on Saturday, most of which coming in the second half. An AJ Ferguson jumper at the 14:26 mark was the first Saluki lead of what would be several see-saw stretches.

“Out guys attacked pressure with pressure,” Mullins said.

“They played off each other, they were confident and a really resilient group.”

The Salukis would put the game away when, with less than 10 second left up three, Jarrett Hensley blocked the shot attempt of Indiana State’s Isaiah Swope.

Johnson would sink two free

five Arch Madness tournament wins, have an outdated wordmark.

Most of the undergraduate student body was born in the early-to-mid 2000’s. For a program that hasn’t won its conference tournament since 2006, most of its students wouldn’t remember the last time the Salukis cut down the nets in St. Louis.

Making the NCAA Tournament as a mid-major school essentially requires the team win its conference tournament. To do that, the team will need to beat some of the best teams in said conference. If everything goes chalk, the Salukis would need to beat two of the top four teams in the MVC in the semifinals and finals to get to the big dance.

Saluki head coach Bryan Mullins is

5-33 against the top four Valley teams during his five-year tenure. With that in mind, it is sometimes difficult to imagine the Dawgs suddenly pulling off an upset at the Enterprise Center, when even home wins against the top dogs are few and far between.

Since it last ran the table in St. Louis in 2006, the Salukis are just 3-12 against teams seeded above them. Two of those wins came as the ninth seed against a similarly lowranked eight seed in the Thursday play-in round.

That’s the importance of SIU beating Indiana State. This year’s Sycamores are not just the usual Valley leaders. The Trees entered the week ranked No. 23 in the country, and had legitimate arguments for

throws to solidify a monumental win.

“He’s getting better and better, and you know that block on [Isaiah] Swope that he had when we were up three, that was incredible,” Mullins said. “He’s put a lot of work in this season, not knowing if he’s going to play or not, continuing to put the work in. And work works.”

The improbability of the Salukis’ win comes not only from its prior 17-game drought against AP Top 25 ranked teams and the Sycamores’ status as the top team in the Valley, but also the 77-48 beatdown the Salukis suffered in Terre Haute the last time the teams met in November.

SIU’s win maintains the team’s top-four placing in the Missouri

Valley Conference. Entering Saturday in a four-way tie for the fourth seed in the Valley, Southern will keep that positioning at least for another day as it looks to fend off the likes of Belmont, Murray State and Northern Iowa – all of which are in action on Sunday.

The Salukis will face a pivotal matchup with postseason implications on Wednesday, as they take on the Murray State Racers (11-15, 8-7) at 7 p.m. at the Banterra Center.

To stay up to date on all your southern Illinois news, be sure to follow The Daily Egyptian on Facebook and @dailyegyptian on X [formerly known as Twitter].

being an at-large team, something the Valley has only seen once since 2016.

The Salukis’ Valley schedule started with a crushing loss to the Sycamores in November. The 77-48 defeat gave little hope that Southern would truly be competitive against the conference’s best team.

But after pulling off the historic upset in their rematch on Saturday, Mullins, with his hair still wet from the locker room Gatorade bath, said what Southern has often heard, but never quite truly believed: “If we play like that, we can beat anyone.”

If SIU wants to cut down the nets three Sundays from now, it will likely need to beat the Sycamores.

If not them, then it will be regular

February 5th, 2013 vs. No. 22 Wichita State Coach Bryan Mullins was playing professional basketball for Champagne Basket in France Future NBA champion Fred VanVleet was playing for MVC rival Wichita State Saluki football head coach Nick Hill was playing in the Arena Football League. Later that year he began coaching at Carbondale Community High School NFL players Jeremy Chinn and Ryan Neal, who were at Saturday’s game, were playing high school football

Jamilah Lewis can be reached at jlewis@dailyegyptian.com.

CONTINUED FROM 1

The Future site of the Buckminster Fuller-Arbor District Neighborhood Park Feb. 17, 2024 on W. Cherry Street in Carbondale, Illinois

landlords in the Carbondale area and said, “There are already many laws on the books. Taking a closer local eye at the enforcement could be the key to obtaining the results that you want, without perhaps overburdening the landlords.”

Kibbler said he understood landlords might not get sympathy, but regulating them more will further increase costs on their side.

SIU student and Carbondale renter Victor Ludwig spoke to the council about how the problem is the bad landlords who benefit from not doing their job according to the law.

“If you’re a diligent landlord who follows the law, you have nothing

Managing editor Brandyn Wilcoxen can be reached at bwilcoxen@ dailyegyptian.com or on Twitter at @ BrandynWilcoxen.

The last time the Salukis beat a ranked team:

ARBOR DISTRICT work, the Arbor District workers enforced the rental registration program made in 2007.

The press release says, “In spite of regular inspection (except during COVID), some landlords have found ways to avoid bringing their properties up to code.”

Renters, landlords, and supporters of both sides attended the meeting to get a chance to share their takes on the proposal and how the city should move forward with it.

Gregory Holthaus a member of S.I. Property Management told the council the problem lies with illegal landlords not doing their jobs accordingly. He said it’s very important for people to understand the difference between license law and who can legally manage a property.

“There’s people such as myself that are here today, there’s been a lifetime of investment in the city of Carbondale and to have people that can register today with the city of Carbondale and become the point person, the central point of contact for the city, is very troubling me,” Holthaus said.

Holthaus said a look into the history of “repeat offender” landlords are the ones renting out their properties illegally.

Attorney at the Southern Illinois Law Center Jonathan Kibler represents

contenders Drake or Bradley looking to end the Salukis’ season.

Sure, the ‘23-24 Salukis have been on-paper upset by some teams, but have also proven that it can not only handle the Valley’s best, but beat a nationally-ranked team late in the year when the grind of the season takes its toll.

If SIU wants to do what it thinks it can do, it needs to have more nights like Saturday. The program has finally shown that it’s possible.

Now, the Salukis just need to keep winning.

but benefit from this because you’re unscrupulous competitors will be burdened out of existence,” Ludwig said. “If you’re acting unscrupulously, if you’re breaking the law, if you’re breaking ordinance, you have no right to be doing what you do as a landlord.”

Ludwig said it is very important to prioritize good landlords with Carbondale being a college town, but there should also be things put in place to protect tenants also.

“I feel that the city should step in to add additional mechanisms by which it can…enforce measures that protect all the tenants here because the tenants don’t have lawyers,”

Ludwig said.

Ludwig said he has had to deal with a roach infestation in his apartment for the past eight months and says it’s not just his apartment but the entire building.

“I can’t leave a single thing out for longer than five minutes when I cook and can’t leave the kitchen because I don’t watch the pan. I have to watch water boil so that I can live safely and happily and healthy,” Ludwig said.

“Now I’m moving out of Carbondale because I can’t find a place to live to be that safe.”

He doesn’t want to leave, he said, but living outside the city and buying a house somewhere cheap enough is

the only way he’ll feel secure in his living situation. The city needs to be focused on giving the people someone clean to live.

“How many times would I have to call the city to make that work? How many lawyers will I have to hire to get that to the court?” Ludwig said.

“How bankrupt do I have to be to actually have a livable house?”

Adam Ashby, another man who came to support renters, said many landlords are outpricing residents, leading to homelessness in the area.

“Whenever you have landlords that hoard housing like this right, and they hold it at a set price that most people cannot afford, that is what drives homelessness,” Ashby said.

“Being a landowner is a privilege, it is not a right.”

Ashby said he believes that some bad landlords enjoy hoarding this housing, forgetting what their control does to the people.

“If you were not going to provide people with livable and affordable housing, you do not have the right to be a landlord. It is an economic position,” Ashby said. “It’s a job, okay. And I believe that part of the responsibility of that job is providing safe, adequate and affordable housing to everyone.”

Sports editor Jamilah Lewis can be reached on X @jamilahlewis or jlewis@dailyegyptian.com

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Entertainment and Culture | Page 5

African Week celebrates unity and tradition on campus Annalise Schmidt aschmidt@dailyegyptian.com

This week unfolds as a testament to diversity within the African continent and a call to recognize its contributions to the global community, foster unity and spotlight the rising influence of African leaders on the global stage.

SIU’s African Students Union (ASU) recently announced its African Week event. This year’s theme, “African Leaders as Global Ambassadors: Building a Strong Future,” aims to celebrate the rich diversity of African cultures and highlight the leadership roles that Africans play on the global stage.

Muyiwa Adeyanju is the president of ASU, and acknowledges that uniting Africans through this event is a vital aspect of the organization.

“The…week is about bringing a lot of the African students and campus together to show different cultures, different backgrounds, different attires.

I would like colorful and beautiful culture to be together,” Adeyanju said.

It’s a unique opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds to appreciate Africa and celebrate the richness of African cultures with people who may be unaccustomed to some African traditions.

Adeyanju said, “It’s not just for the Africans, but it’s also to show other people on campus about Africa, to show them the diverse cultures there. The ability to bring them together, it’s a very, very important thing to do for ASU.” In line with this inclusive vision, ASU seeks to create an enriching experience for all members of the campus community. The diverse cultural showcase serves as a bridge, connecting individuals from various backgrounds and enlightening them about Africa’s rich heritage.

Herty Tinadu, public relations officer of ASU, said the week “symbolizes a time to educate, inspire and create a space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together to appreciate the beauty and strength of Africa’s contributions to the global community.”

She said the primary goals of the week include, fostering cultural understanding, celebrating African leadership and empowering students. Through these events, the organization aims to highlight the diversity within the African continent and promote a sense of global citizenship.

“African Week holds immense significance for us, as it provides a platform to showcase the rich African cultures, celebrate our unity, and amplify the voices of Africans,” Tinadu said.

Tinadu continued: “By emphasizing the theme of ‘African Leaders as Global Ambassadors,’ we hope to instill a sense of pride, leadership, and responsibility among our participants, encouraging them to contribute positively to a connected and strong future.”

These events have presented opportunities to delve into topics related to African leadership, innovation, and global impact, especially during Monday’s Symposium event featuring many distinguished speakers, to help participants gain valuable insights.

It is encouraged that people continue to engage in meaningful discussions throughout the week to cultivate a deeper understanding of the pivotal role African leaders play in redefining the future.

Adeyanju said, “We feel like it’s high time a lot of Africans are taking important positions in the global circle and are an important part of every organization and country, at this point of time where there’s a lot of migration going on around. We feel like it’s also very important that a lot of Africans are in important places, that they can make a difference in the world at large and are making a difference for people here.”

The work of ASU does not stop after this week.

The African Students Union serves as a guide for young students, providing a supportive community where they can navigate their academic journeys

while staying connected to their roots and through cultural events.

Tinadu said, “Showcasing our culture is crucial for breaking stereotypes, fostering appreciation, and building connections. [ASU] aims to create an inclusive space where individuals can learn, share experiences, and find a sense of belonging as well.”

ASU has established relationships with the International Student Council and Black Student Affairs Council as well.

Adeyanju said, “During the past year, we’ve tried to foster deeper connections with the Black Affairs Council so we can also participate in their program and they can also participate with us.”

They have worked to actively engage with diverse groups, creating more opportunities for inclusion and equity on campus.

“We’ve been able to build a stronger connection for Africans, because we have a group of people, a community where all Africans are present. We are able to attend to everybody’s needs and be able to be there for ourselves and also are able to make a difference on campus as well,” Adeyanju said.

Planning a week-long event involves coordination and collaboration from everyone involved.

“We start by identifying themes and activities that align with our objectives and the process includes securing speakers, curating film selections, and ensuring logistical details for each event,” Tinadu said.

“Volunteer recruitment, promotion, and community engagement are also integral to the planning process.”

The Cultural Show and Awards Night on Saturday stands out, promising a memorable experience that brings together various elements of diverse cultures within Africa. This year, organizers hope to showcase traditional African wedding celebrations.

“Each event holds its unique charm, but personally, the African Themed Wedding is something we are particularly excited about. It entails the joy, traditions, and vibrancy of African celebrations and it promises to be a memorable experience, bringing together various elements of our diverse cultures,” Tinadu said.

Adeyanju agreed and said, “The wedding covers various aspects of African culture. It covers the societal aspect, it covers the economy and it covers the cultural aspect.”

He said the events bring people closer to ASU’s goals.

“It’s something that really makes me happy that we are given this kind of opportunity to be able to do these kinds of events even on campus. We foster more inclusivity and also equity and all those things that we stand for,” Adeyanju said. “It’s easy to have a lot of misconceptions about a lot of things, but the fact that we’re able to do things brings people closer to the culture, it brings people closer to us.”

ASU extends a request to everyone to participate

in the events as more presence will contribute to their success and the building of a stronger, more connected future.

Tinadu said, “We want to emphasize that African Week is an open invitation for everyone to join us in celebrating diversity, fostering cultural exchange, and appreciating the contributions of African leaders, and we also encourage all members of the community to attend, participate, and engage with us during this enriching and empowering week.”

The week showcases numerous events, each showcasing the unique talents, traditions and unity within SIU’s African community. Here’s what’s in store: Wednesday, Feb. 21 The Bead Making and Craft Sale is an interactive event where participants can both attempt to create their own pieces and support local Africans and their creations. The event will be located at North Table #2, inside the Student Center.

Friday, Feb. 23 Spend the evening at Karaoke with Sip & Paint to celebrate African art and music. Grant yourself the opportunity to express creativity in the Old Main Room at the Student Center, with the support of engaging instructors and peers.

Saturday, Feb. 24 The final event of the week is the African Cultural Show and Awards Night. The wedding-themed event will be held in Ballroom D, with events from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.. It will have a reception, followed by diverse cultural music and traditional dance performances, as well as African cuisine. Highachieving students will also be recognized with an awards ceremony.

For more information about the African Student Union and the events during African Week, see Instagram or reach out to them directly on the RSO website.

Staff Reporter Annalise Schmidt can be reached at aschmidt@dailyegyptian.com

Page 6 |

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Daily Egyptian at Joei Younker (front), Lylee Gibbs (middle) and Peyton Cook (back) pose for a polaroid photo while waiting for a conference Feb. 16, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois.

Dominique Martinez-Powell | @dmartinez_powell.photography

Dominique Martinez-Powell laughs with Lylee Gibbs at the award ceremony for ICPA Feb. 17, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois.

Lylee Gibbs | LyleeGibbsphoto

ICPA

The Daily Egyptian staff waves towards the stage for a video Feb. 17, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois.

Lylee Gibbs | LyleeGibbsphoto

Lylee Gibbs (left), Cole Daily (middle) and Joei Younker (right) pose for a photo Feb. 16, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois. Lylee Gibbs | LyleeGibbsphoto

Joei Younker speaks with SIU Student Life about the upcoming trip to Chicago just before boarding the train Feb. 15, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois.

Ryan Grieser gives a thumbs-up to Jasmine Thompson after winning third place in Sports News Story at ICPA Feb. 17, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois Lylee Gibbs | @LyleeGibbsphoto

Jasmine Thompson records staff members of the Daily Egyptian as they wait to board the train to Chicago Feb. 15, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois

Ryan Grieser (right) laughs as he shares a chair with Cole Daily (right) Feb. 16, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois. Lylee Gibbs | @LyleeGibbsphoto

Editor-in-Chief Cole Daily holds up a first place ‘Sweepstakes’ award presented to The Daily Egyptian for winning the most awards in a division with a total of 42 Feb. 17, 2024 at Double Tree in Chicago, Illinois. Lylee Gibbs | LyleeGibbsphoto

Page 8 | News

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Journalism surrounds your everyday life: Scholastic Journalism Week Joei Younker | @younker_joei

Scholastic Journalism Week (SJW) has been celebrated for the last 100 years to highlight the importance of journalism and the student journalists bringing news to the public.

SJW is being celebrated from Feb. 19-23. This year’s theme is “Here to Stay,” to show that while there is a large decrease in the number of inoffice reporters and print publications, journalism has a permanent role in a democratic society.

Throughout the week there are daily themes that represent different eras of scholastic journalism.

Monday will start off with the First Amendment and how it is essential for those who practice journalism.

Tuesday is centered around “journalism then” and the difference between sensationalist news then and now. Wednesday moves into “journalism now” focusing on the digital landscape and receiving news through digital media. Thursday represents the sixth annual Student Press Freedom Day. The last day of SJW discusses possibilities for the future of journalism with the theme “journalism next.”

The primary goals of SJW are to promote journalism education and the role it plays in developing critical thinking, communication, skills and media literacy among students.

Celebrating student journalists is another goal of SJW. Anyone can celebrate student journalism by recognizing and celebrating the impact they have on their schools and communities. The next goal is to raise awareness about the challenges and opportunities in the field of journalism, including the importance of freedom and responsible press.

Raising awareness is one of the most important goals of the week. Student journalists are often overlooked in comparison to other news outlets.

Of the almost 6,000 universities in the U.S. there are an estimated 1,600 student newspapers.

Student-run newspapers are a critical part of any journalism student’s college experience. Having the opportunity to gain experience in their future career field sets students up for success once they graduate.

Day Starr-Fleming | DaySF-Facebook

Assistant professor in the School “That was hugely helpful to me its journalism students, from the of Advertising and Journalism Molly to have writing experience, there’s Daily Egyptian to WSIU, which teach Parker works for Capital News Illinois just a lot of things you don’t know. not only print but multi platform and for ProPublica, writing enterprise Learning how to interview people, reporting and the cross platform and investigative stories while also learning how to fact check, getting experience that the university offers teaching media ethics, beat reporting over anxieties with confronting its students. and investigative “I think it’s reporting at important for Southern Illinois students who University. are going into “I think college is journalism to a great place to learn have lots of the fundamentals opportunities of journalism. to practice - Molly Parker You can have all journalism at the Assistant professor in the School of Advertising and Journalism different kinds of college level at background and the guidance of get into journalism people who have but it helps to experience doing understand the ethics and principles people with questions. All of that it,” Parker said. and practices that go into telling was very helpful in my early career,” Not only does Southern Illinois stories that not just anyone with a Parker said about her time with the offer upwards of 70 journalism recorder and a camera is a journalist,” Daily Egyptian. courses in specializations of all sorts, she said.

Having the opportunity to including advertising, journalism Parker is not only an alumni of SIU learn about her career field in her in mass, communications, newsbut also served as the Editor in Chief undergraduate time at Southern gave editorial, photos, journalism and of the Daily Egyptian her senior year. Parker the knowledge and skills she sports media. It also offers awardShe was an employee of the paper needed to enter the workforce after winning organizations such as all three years that she attended graduation. She stressed how critical Saluki AdLab, the Daily Egyptian Southern. the opportunities are that SIU offers and alt.news 26:46, as well as

“Anyone can benefit from learning how journalism is done.”

interactions with WSIU. “It’s important to reflect on the programs we’re offering and to make sure they’re matching what the current industry looks like so that you’re prepared for work, it’s good to have that practical experience [that many SIU classes are built around],” Parker said.

Working alongside people that are able to help and give effective feedback in the case a student is running into ethical dilemmas or struggling with story ideas it is important that they have people you can lean on to ask questions and work out kinks before they get into the professional field.

Parker feels strongly about the general public being educated on news and the day to day struggles and tasks of journalists of all sorts. Many people are quick to jump to conclusions without an understanding of the processes that media sources go through to produce their information.

“Anyone can benefit from learning how journalism is done. Concerns right now and attempts to call people fake journalists and discredit the work of journalists, I think a lot of that comes from the general public not understanding what goes into the process and therefore not being able to differentiate between actual fake news and news that is gathered ethically,” Parker said.

Scholastic Journalism Week is in place not only for student journalists to celebrate their accomplishments in the field of journalism, but to educate those who may not have a full understanding of what goes into the news articles, photos and other news media they may consume. ”Everyone should have an understanding of media literacy,” Parker said.

With the decline in newsrooms all over the world and print publications being in a “dying era” it is important to bring recognition to those who work in the ever changing field of journalism and know that we’re “Here to Stay.”

News Editor Joei Younker can be reached at jyounker@dailyegyptian.com

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Creating “multifaceted” students a focus for journalism school leaders

Ryan Grieser rgrieser@dailyegyptian.com

competitions while also helping design local campaigns.

While it is not a requirement for students to be involved with these or similar organizations, Faculty Managing Editor of The Daily Egyptian Annie Hammock thinks it is important that students gain that kind of experience.

According to Daily, SIU and The Daily Egyptian need assistance Journalism is not a cheap industry. to provide students with this It never has been. Between experience. constantly paying for employees to “When it comes down to it, we travel to cover stories and paying need help and funding when it comes the employees to work, newsmakers to cameras and video equipment,” have always had to deal with hefty Daily said. “That’s when The Daily expenses, which have only grown in Egyptian is going to take the next recent years. level. That’s when With the herald we can truly, of online media, truly prepare our and in many cases students for the the subsequent workforce.” slow death of print As a journalism editions, the cost to student, Daily cover the news has sees firsthand only increased at a what students are time when there is learning in classes, - Jan Thompson less money and less and therefore Director of SIU School of Journalism and Advertising workers to do so. knows how Many newspapers important of an have struggled to opportunity The keep up with the Daily Egyptian constantly evolving technological “It’s a training ground for the provides and how including needs. Student publications, like people who are going to go out into multimedia reporting into its coverage Southern Illinois University’s Daily the world and shine the light in dark would benefit students.

Egyptian, are no exception. The Daily corners, it’s a training ground for “You’re broadening the horizon of Egyptian has faced many budgetary journalists who are going to be telling every employee that works here. That issues and, as a result, struggled to the stories of their communities,” means you go, and you don’t only get provide the equipment needed for Hammock said. the reporting access… but you also students to truly learn to cover news.

Even if they don’t directly work get the video access and the photo SIU School of Journalism and for The Daily Egyptian, students still access,” he said. “It’s about making Advertising director Jan Thompson have opportunities to earn writing everybody multifaceted.” said that it’s an ongoing process to credits in a publication.

Thompson says that part of helping provide what is needed for students.

“We’re trying as a school of students to become multifaceted “We’re trying to beef up our journalism to get more students includes reviving River Region, the equipment and make sure that involved in production for The Daily student-produced newscast that has reporters will have access to this Egyptian as part of their classes,” fallen dormant, and fully merging it equipment,” Thompson said.

Hammock said. with The Daily Egyptian.

As covering news and reporting has This opportunity is present in “We’re going to try to marry River changed, curriculums have needed several classes. Hammock teaches Region and The Daily Egyptian. to adapt along with it. According to multiple basic journalism classes from Everybody should know how to pick Thompson, SIU’s changes have been which stories are sourced, while more up a camera and shoot. Everybody centered around putting students content, including photos, comes should know how to write a story, in real situations to practice their from investigative reporting and beat and for the different platforms,” journalism skills. reporting classes taught by “rock stars” Thompson said.

“We have changed our curriculum Molly Parker and Julia Rendleman.

According to Hammock, for every to be able to prepare students through “That’s a really positive student to know how to pick up a experience,” Thompson said. development. It not only gets camera and shoot, The Daily Egyptian These changes have led Thompson more students in the mindset of is in need of equipment. to hold a lot of excitement over the reporting for The Daily Egyptian, “The wish list is always going to future of the school of journalism. but it gives them the classroom include video cameras, tripods… the “I think we’re in an exciting period to discuss ethical issues, sourcing equipment to get the raw materials because we’re growing and changing. issues, how to make sure they’re for the stories,” Hammock said.

I hope the students are excited, I hope getting the right people on the She thinks that the students, the students are learning, and I hope right story,” Hammock said. who have grown up in an age where the students are excited to come to Between the content produced by a taking photos and videos for fun, are class,” Thompson said. staff that has grown significantly since ready to learn once the equipment is While class experience certainly the beginning of the school year and available. has its benefits, Thompson also hopes the boost provided by partnering with “The students are trainable. We just that students branch out and do more classes, The Daily Egyptian and its need equipment to train them on and than just assignments that are going accompanying website are chock full for them to utilize,” Hammock said. to be graded. of student articles. However, there According to Daily, this training is “A class project, it only takes you is one area in which it falls behind: a big part of what prepares students to so far. What I hope to see is that we multimedia content. enter the world. prepare our students well enough Student editor-in-chief Cole Daily said, “Our job at The Daily so that by junior or senior year, Daily notices it both as a problem Egyptian is to prepare students for they’re knocking it out of the park,” for the content shown by The Daily whatever future career opportunities Thompson said.

Egyptian, but also one from an they may be a part of. And if we don’t Part of this preparation can be experience standpoint for students. give the tools to get there, then we’re working at or with established “It’s really hard to find careers… not doing our job efficiently.” media makers, such as The Daily but most people who are multimedia Egyptian, WSIU or Saluki AdLab, a faceted, they’re the people who Sports reporter Ryan Grieser student organization that competes get jobs. They have experience in can be reached at in nation-wide ad campaign everything,” Daily said. rgrieser@dailyegyptian.com.

Sports | Page 9

Contact Us

Email: editor@dailyegyptian.com Faculty Managing Editor: Annie Hammock

News Editor: Joei Younker

ahammock@dailyegyptian.com

jyounker@dailyegyptian.com

Editor-in-Chief: Cole Daily

Sports Editor: Jamilah Lewis

cdaily@dailyegyptian.com

jlewis@dailyegyptian.com

Design Chief: Peyton Cook

Digital Editor: Bhayva Sri-Billuri

pcook@dailyegyptian.com

bsri-billuri@dailyegyptian.com

Photo Editor: Lylee Gibbs

Business Manager: Jessica Guthrie

lgibbs@dailyegyptian.com

jguthrie@dailyegyptian.com

Student Managing Editor: Brandyn Wilcoxen

Ad Chief: Makena Masterson

bwilcoxen@dailyegyptian.com

mmasterson@dailyegyptian.com

“We have changed our curriculum to be able to prepare students through experience...”

About Us

The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of Southern Illinois University Carbondale on a weekly basis. Fall and spring semester editions run every Wednesday. Free copies are distributed in the Carbondale, Carterville, and Springfield communities. The Daily Egyptian can be found at www.dailyegyptian.com or on the Daily Egyptian app!

Mission Statement

The Daily Egyptian, the student-run news organization of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, is committed to being a trusted source of news, information, commentary and public discourse, while helping readers understand the issues affecting their lives.

Publishing Information

The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of Southern Illinois University Carbondale and functions as a laboratory for the School of Journalism in exchange for the room and utilities in the Communications Building.

The Daily Egyptian is a non-profit organization that survives primarily off of its advertising revenue. Offices are in the Communications Building, room 1259, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, Ill., 62901.

Copyright Information

@2024 The Daily Egyptian. All rights reserved. All content is property of the Daily Egyptian and may not be reproduced or transmitted without consent. The Daily Egyptian is a member of the Illinois College Press Association, Associated Collegiate Press, College Media Advisers Inc. and the College Business and Advertising Managers Inc.

Submissions

Letters and guest columns must be submitted with author’s contact information, preferably via email. Phone numbers are required to verify authorship, but will not be published.

Students must include their year and major. Faculty must include rank and department. Others include hometown.

Submissions should be sent to editor@dailyegyptian.com

Page 10 | Sports

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

University Honors Program will host annual state conference for the first time Carly Gist | cgist@dailyegyptain.com

to sustainability as an overarching goal For the first time, the Southern Illinois of education that we pursue through our University Honors Program will be hosting the curriculum, research, service, and campus Honors Council of the Illinois Region’s annual activities.” conference on Feb. 23 and 24.

Honors Assembly Vice President of The Student Research Symposium will Diversity and Inclusion Carmen Wilder said kick off Friday at 5 p.m. with a tour of she is most looking forward to networking the Buckminster Fuller Dome, followed and observing research. by a welcome dinner at the SIU Student “Meeting people from other universities Center Big Muddy and like-minded Room.

Saturday individuals who are will be filled with just so passionate presentations from about research,” around 35 to 40 she said. “And even honors students, though I personally University Honors am not involved Program Director in research, I love - Sarah Kukavsky Jyotsna Kapur said. hearing other people President of the Honors Assembly “The annual talk about their student symposium research. So the goal is is a venue for just leaving the event Honors students feeling inspired, if you to present their research,” she wrote in an will, and just having new gained knowledge email. “We have been going to the HCIR from sharing everyone’s ideas.”

Symposium for the last several years and it Sarah Kukavsky, president of the honors was time for us to host the conference on assembly, shared similar excitement. our campus.”

“I think for me, I’m very interested in The event is also an opportunity to connecting with other people who have showcase the many talents of the honors nothing to do with the zoology field program members. Honors faculty will [her major],” she said. “I love going to chair panels, while the Honors Assembly, conferences to, kind of like Carmen said, which is the student governance body of the just to learn as much as I can. And I think UHP, will serve as discussants. Day Starr- I’m in a very nice role where I get to talk to Fleming, an honors student and designer tons of people and get to understand, like, for the Daily Egyptian, has designed a what they’ve done with their time in the t-shirt for the conference. Dr. Lingguo Bu honors program.” has designed and printed the event trophies Kukavsky will be participating in a in the honors design lab, which is also used poster presentation and a panel discussion. by students in his seminar “Making Math Assembly Vice President of Commerce Fun for Children” to design 3-D toys for Natalie Eves will also be sharing research. local school children.

“I am presenting on the topic of ‘Why Kapur said, “This gives us an opportunity psychological skills are important in core to showcase what makes the SIUC Honors curriculum,’” Eves said, “I am presenting Program distinctive – it is our commitment on this topic to highlight the mental health

“My job is to be the voice of the students...”

Carmen Wilder posing for a portrait, Feb. 14 2024 at Smith Hall, Thompson Point, Carbondale, Illinois. Daylin Williams| dwilliams@dailyegyptian.com

crisis as a call to action for state-wide have done research to come and learn honors programs. The hope is that they will something,” she said. “So I think that’s been understand why a health class alternative my biggest struggle.” which focuses more on mental health and Wilder added, “The struggle is wanting development of psychological skills should to get more people involved, and also just be offered by colleges.” spreading the word about it, making sure Eves has helped people know what it is with planning and and just how big of a will assist with deal it is that our school key aspects of the is hosting it for the first event. time. I really just hope “With the help it’s a good turnout, and of the honors that SIU is represented staff, assembly well.” members and Both students said volunteers this that they hope attendees will be a great will walk away having event,” she said. learned something new - Jyotsna Kapur The Honors and feeling inspired.

University Honors Program Director Assembly has “If you sit on a been preparing panel, or if you look since the at a poster, or you beginning of the semester with biweekly listen to anyone talk that day about what meetings. Kukavsky has also been meeting they’re passionate about, you should learn with faculty to ensure the plans are geared something,” Kukavsky said. “And I think toward students. it’s going to be really exciting to meet “My job is to be the voice of the students,” people across the state who do things that she said. “So [faculty will] do their adult we haven’t dreamed of yet. It should be discussions, and then they’ll look at me awesome.” and I’m like, ‘that won’t work for a student, Wilder wants participants to “feel let’s tone it down’ or like, ‘as a student, inspired [and] to want to keep learning and this is what I would want to see happen.’ thinking in a different way.”

So I’ve been kind of their soundboard.

If interested in volunteering, honors Helping them work out things to make sure students should check the 411 Newsletter everything goes smoothly. And then I relay for sign-up information. Any other students it to the rest of the honors assembly.” interested can email honors@siu.edu.

Kukavsky said the biggest challenge she’s For more information on the event, visit faced is getting honors students who are not https://honors.siu.edu/what-is-happeninga part of the assembly to attend. in-honors/HCIR-Student-Symposium.php.

“I think a lot of students are kind of scared when they see the words ‘Research Staff reporter Carly Gist Conference,’ because they don’t necessarily can be reached at understand that, like, you don’t have to cgist@dailyegyptian.com.

“This gives us an opportunity to showcase what makes the SIUC Honors Program distinctive...”

Sarah Kukavsky posing for a portrait, Feb. 14 2024 at Smith Hall, Thompson Point, Carbondale, Illinois. Daylin Williams | dwilliams@dailyegyptian.com

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

News | Page 11

WPOW! Women photojournalists featured in Sharp Museum

Annalise Schmidt aschmidt@dailyegyptian.com

The Women Photojournalists of Washington (WPOW) marks its 16th Annual Photography and Multimedia Exhibition this year, shining a spotlight on the impactful work of its members.

From Jan. 16 to May 10, the exhibit in Sharp Museum invites the public to witness the outstanding visual journalism produced by these women standing on the forefront of stories across the world.

Julia Rendleman, an assistant professor of journalism in the College of Arts and Media and previous WPOW member, said, “The main goal of the exhibit is to showcase some of the best photojournalism of 2023 and to expose our students to work beyond Carbondale.”

Images in the exhibit were created by 23 WPOW member photographers and two multimedia journalists.

“All the women who are exhibiting are in the Women Photojournalists of Washington, so many photos are leaning pretty heavily to what the press covers, but there’s all sorts of photos,” Rendleman said.

The exhibit captures moments from political events in D.C., to more personal and private moments with their subjects.

The Best in Show title went to two different pieces: Allison Robbert, student photographer at the GW Hatchet, photographed President Joe Biden as he paused before answering a question in the State Dining Room of the White House on Nov. 9, 2023; and Erin Schaff’s photo for the New York Times shows Shawn Armstrong laying in bed

with her mom, Ann Brown before they fell asleep at home in Choctaw, Oklahoma, on May 29, 2023. Shawn’s son Joshua was in jail on a murder charge after allegedly sharing drugs with a friend who overdosed.

Shawn told Schaff the only thing that calmed her down and helped her sleep during that time was having her mom rub her arm before they go to sleep.”

The opening reception on Thursday, Feb. 22 at the museum features Anna Rose Layden, a freelance photojournalist in Washington, D.C. who primarily covers U.S. politics.

The reception not only serves as a celebration of Layden’s contributions to the field, but also as an invitation for the community to explore the power of visual storytelling. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with Layden, ask questions and gain unique insights into the craft of photojournalism.

Layden said, “Our 16th annual exhibition, like the ones before it, aims to expose the general public to visual journalism, the impact women have on the industry, and to celebrate the work done by our colleagues. Our members based in and around the D.C. area are on the front lines of national, international, and local stories on a daily basis and we hope that our platform can reach those outside of our own journalism circle.”

Her contribution to the exhibit features supporters of Rep. Abigail Spanburger (D-Va.) celebrating her victory during an election watch on Nov. 8, 2022.

“I’m thrilled to be able to speak about the work presented in this exhibit,

Peyton Cook | @_peytoncook_

particularly because this was my first time as co-chair of the Exhibition Committee,” Layden said.

The exhibit holds valuable learning opportunities for students, offering a unique perspective on the world through the lens of accomplished female photographers.

Rendleman said, “Because I’m the photojournalism professor, it’s really important to me to expose my students to a lot of different kinds of work. The main thing I’m doing with this event is Anna Rose Layden is coming a day early so she can speak in both my classes that I’m teaching this semester.”

At that time, intermediate photojournalism students will also be sharing with Layden a short term story that they have been working on.

“She’s going to be there giving feedback, sort of like a visiting professional. She’s going to be in direct contact with the students, working with them on their own stories and sharing her own... I’m not sure what’s better than that,” Rendleman said.

In the dynamic and often competitive nature of visual journalism, the need for a supportive and inclusive community is more crucial than ever. Layden’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and diverse space for female-identifying visual journalists instills the belief that their aspirations are feasible.

Layden said, “I am not much older than the students that I will be meeting. It’s so important to me to be able to encourage them to pursue their dreams and know that they are achievable, no matter what they feel may stand in their way.”

She hopes to share the different avenues students can take to achieve their goals.

“There is not one singular path to success in the journalism industry, just as there is not one way to make a picture or document an event,” Layden said.

She shared that she is looking forward to speaking with the students about her work, and commemorating the images of the incredible women that she works with, especially as a younger female photographer in what is still a male

Photos from the Women Photojournalists of Washington are seen displayed in Sharp Museum Feb. 18, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois.

Mo Collar | @m0.alexander

dominated industry.

“I hope to be a person they feel they can relate and connect to when looking at and thinking of D.C. journalism, and know that there are many others like me who are cheering for them from the sidelines, waiting to watch what emerging visual journalists will do in the future,” Layden said.

Getting involved in WPOW by volunteering at or sponsoring events can help students gain connections in the industry. Organization membership is free for people who meet the criteria as well.

Layden said, “We encourage people to come to our events if they are in the D.C. area. Membership is open to women and non-binary photo and video journalists, professionals and students alike.”

Rendleman said, “Everyone across campus and the community can come to the opening exhibit where Anna Rose will be speaking, so that’s another way students can interact with this project.”

The exhibit first opens every year in Washington, D.C., at an outdoor alleyway gallery in the fall.

Throughout the academic year, the exhibition and members representing WPOW will be traveling to New York, Massachusetts, Colorado, Missouri,

Ohio and Kentucky.

“Before I moved here for this job, I was actually a member of WPOW and that’s how I got linked up to it,” Rendleman said. “Last fall, the directors of the traveling exhibit emailed me and asked if SIU was interested in hosting the traveling exhibit.”

She expressed her interest in hosting the exhibit and initiated the planning process on campus.

“Finding an appropriate space was a really big deal. I wanted it to come with some level of prestige and not just be in the journalism hallway. So, I reached out to Wes at Sharp Museum and we started working together,” Rendleman said.

The location is vital in making it more convenient for people, notably students and members of the Carbondale community, to engage with the event.

Rendleman said, “I just think this is a great opportunity for SIU, the School of Journalism and all our students and I hope we have a big turnout.”

Check out the WPOW website or its Instagram for regular updates, including information for the 2025 Exhibit and 2024 Portfolio Review and Seminar.

Staff reporter Annalise Schmidt can be reached at aschmidt@dailyegyptian.com.

Page 12 | News

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Student Press Freedom Day recognizes rights of young journalists Alli Goering | agoering@dailyegyptian.com

Students who publish their writing are protected under the First Amendment. Student Press Freedom Day is a time to celebrate and support the rights of high school and college journalists.

“To me, I think it’s important that even as a student journalist, you can report on whatever you have to and feel like you can report on it in the best way possible,” said WSIU Reporter and journalism student Ethan Holder.

The date of Student Press Freedom Day was chosen as Feb. 23 because of the Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme Court case. The Student Press Law Center wanted to align the holiday with the case decision, which established that students’ First Amendment rights still apply while in school.

“The day of the Tinker decision, Tinker versus Des Moines, was really our first major Supreme Court case that indicated that students had any rights in school at all under the First Amendment.

So certainly a date worth celebrating. We really appreciate the fact that people come out and write a report on it or educate each other which is really important,” said Student Press Law Center Staff Attorney Johnathan Falk.

This holiday was founded five years ago to show support for students in journalism. The Student Law Press Center was founded in 1974 to support and defend student journalists’ and advisers’ rights to their publications under the First Amendment.

The center encourages students to publish their work even if it could cause controversial reactions because students are protected.

“You know, student journalists wonder, well, is it worth the fight? Is it worth putting our voice out there? If we’re going to have to appeal to what my principal says, we typically think yes, that’s why it’s important for you to fight so

comes up in the course of doing that student journalism, learning about the process, and actually publishing,” Falk said.

In Illinois, there is a statute that states student journalists have the right to exercise freedom

“Press Freedom Day, I think, is a really important means of alerting student journalists to the fact that they’re not alone in their own student newsroom.”

- Johnathan Falk Student Press Law Center Staff Attorney

that you have that precedent to look back on and say, we’ve done the fighting for this article we wanted to publish that might be considered controversial,” Falk said.

The Student Law Press Center has been active for 50 years and has offered student journalists services since the beginning. The center runs a free legal hotline that is open 24 hours for anyone who has questions about legal, publishing and copyright concerns. It has guest speakers to inform students about their rights and features a program named New Voices that travels from state to state fighting for student journalists.

“Our hotline is a big resource and one that we’re really proud of. Any sort of legal issue that

of speech and freedom of the press in schoolsponsored media. Students are allowed to publish what they write as long as it is not libelous, it is law abiding, it does not invade privacy and does not disrupt the operation of the school.

“Illinois is one of the states where students have much broader rights,” said SIU journalism professor William Freivogel. “At a conference, I asked the student journalists what their experiences are like and a lot of them still have the principals censoring what they write about. So even though it’s illegal to censor a student’s writing, it still happens from time to time, even in Illinois where there’s a statute.”

Student journalists can be unsure if what they

are writing should be censored. The Student Law Press Center wants to make students aware that there is a community for students to turn to when they approach questions about censorship.

Due to external factors, some students self-censor their writing so they don’t face repercussions or negative feedback.

“Press Freedom Day, I think, is a really important means of alerting student journalists to the fact that they’re not alone in their own student newsroom,” Falk said. “There is a community of people on a nationwide level, who are undergoing similar questions and encountering similar questions in their publication as to whether they’re censored or whether they are self censoring.”

Students at SIU know that it’s important to have protection while learning about journalism and beginning to publish their writing. During this transitional period, students strive to create objective pieces that will prepare them for their future in journalism.

“If you’re writing articles, you gain experience, whether you go into the workforce, whether it’s just in class or on the job, you need to do it in as true of a sense as possible. So when you go into the workforce, you’re not doing something completely different from the way you were doing in school,” Holder said.

Staff reporter Alli Goering can be reached at agoering@dailyegyptian.com