Winter 2018 | Anarchy | IC Distinct Magazine

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DISTINCT

TATI JORIO


Editor in Chief Meredith Nash Sara Belcher

Dear Readers, Welcome to the “anarchy” issue of Distinct Magazine. In our current political climate, it is difficult to take the path less traveled. Whether this means sporting edgy fashion or presenting your pacifist beliefs through social media, all are welcome. It is always important to show your individuality and protest against those who rebuff. Anarchy is defined as “a state of disorder due to absence or non-recognition of authority.” Its synonyms are revolution, lawlessness, and chaos. In our current political climate, we define anarchy as standing up for yourself against the political bull---that is our current presidency. Here, we side with those who speak out against the “necessity” of motherhood, against the justification behind gassing toddlers at the border, and against the blatant voter suppression happening all over the country. With the midterm election just under our belts, we’d like you to remember one thing: It is your right to vote, it is your right to do what you’d like with your body, and it is your right to have health care, an education, and the simple ability to use the appropriate bathroom. These things should not be political — they are human rights. That being said, we live in a time where we must fight for these rights. Educate yourself, your peers, and your family. Know your rights. With winter break coming, remember you have the right to all these things, no matter where you are. As a team, we’d like to thank Student Governance Council for funding and Upstate Printing for keeping our magazine in print. And, as always, we’d like to thank every last one of you — every reader, writer, and creator of this publication. Without you, we wouldn’t exist. Sincerely,

Beauty Editor Meg Tippett Lifestyle Editor Rhiannon Coleman Health & Fitness Editor Carly Swanson Culture Editor Arleigh Rodgers Photography Editor/Visual Director Devin Kasparian Art Director Elise Littlefield Lookbook Coordinator Isabella Colello Design Sara Belcher Sydney Matzko Fundraising Coordinator Alayna Vander Veer Social Media Director & Team Raquel Borges Emma McLiverty Emily Sussette Faculty Advisor Katie Marks Head of Copy Danielle Gazda Annika Kushner

Meredith Nash

Copy Editors Matt Attanasio Nicole Brokaw Sydney Joyce Alexandria Logedo Emma Printz Deanna Wetmore

& Sara Belcher IC Distinct Magazine Co-Editors in Chief

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Fashion Editor Kiersten McAdoo

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CONTENTS Lookbook & Fashion Lookbook The Politics of a Hat Nonconformity and Punk Old Ladies of Instagram Edgy Streetwear Innovative Designers Celebrate Culture Vintage

Tati Jorio Culture

A Revolution for Responsibility What is an Anarchist? Commercial Revolution: Ironically Unethical Spending The Underworld of Goth Culture

Lifestyle

Total Game-Archy: The Lawless World of Red Dead Redemption 2 A Platform for Anxiety Angry Lyrics The Purge: a Study of Political Strife On Screen Shopping Ethically

Heath & Fitness

Is it Medication vs Drugs, or Just Drugs? Prison Systems: a Health Epidemic

Beauty

Beauty is More Than the Beholder One Bra at a Time Pretty, but Painful

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THE POLITICS OF A HAT Written by: Kiersten McAdoo Visuals by: Kiersten McAdoo

In the winter of 2017, I was walking through the New York State Museum’s new exhibit on women’s history. I walked through the usual photos and artifacts from women’s suffrage and Gloria Steinem, and then I hit something more recent. In the exhibit, I found artifacts from the Women’s March, at the center of which was the “pussy hat.” Because I’m one of those annoying introspective people, I often think about how the moments I’m living will be in kids’ textbooks one day. Not to drastically simplify things, but there’s a lot going on, politically speaking, so I wonder what’s going to be cut. But here was something that, months after coming into existence, was already a piece of history. I’d never really given much thought to the “pussy hat.” A few women I know owned one — some even handmade — but they weren’t really a part of my world. The first time I really paid them any attention was when a friend of mine started talking about them on Facebook, explaining why they were problematic. For those deeply confused about what I am talking about, the pussy hat became a bit of a spectacle in 2017. Born from the comment “Grab ‘em by the pussy,” spoken by now President Donald Trump, the hat is meant to be a symbol of resistance. Designed by Krista Suh and Jayna Zweiman, the hat has since littered the crowds of protests and graced the covers of magazines. So how can this be bad? Two women design a hat for other women that in turn represents resistance by all womankind. Well, that actually is the problem. It’s not that I don’t see what they were trying to accomplish. Men have consistently and persistently reduced women to bodies meant for sex for, essentially, all of history. These women sought agency and wanted to take the word, 16

and their bodies, back. But by making the pussy hat the sign of a revolution, it did just what it set out to stop — reduced women to the sum of their parts. There are so many types of women in this country, and choosing cisgendered female anatomy to represent all of womankind overlooks the validity of trans women, gender fluid people, and anyone else who identifies as a woman. This exclusion reflects a bigger issue in this, and every other, women’s movement: Cis women exclude trans women. White women exclude women of color. Women with privilege do not share their power. Whether intentional or not, women’s movements have failed to be inclusive from the beginning. The fight for women’s suffrage was riddled with racism from its white leaders. Most arguments for equal pay fail to recognize that black women are paid less than white women, and that hispanic women being paid even less. In this most recent election, mass numbers of white women voted for politicians who are racist, who are homophobic, and who put other women in danger. These betrayals are what the “pussy hat” signifies to me. Not rebellion, not agency, not autonomy — just another way we’ve shut out other women. It represents the times white cis women have thought of their experience as the only experience. It’s a symbol not of strength but of weakness. By trying to take something back from men we took something from other women. We took a woman’s identity because we decided a “pussy hat” was the universal symbol of the female revolution. No woman should feel that her significance in a movement, or in life, is reliant on her body, her skin, or any other descriptor. A woman is valid because she exists.

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NONCONFORMATY AND PUNK Written by: Carly Weckel

The punk scene emerged in the 1970s in the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. A male-dominated industry, punk brought a wave of edgy lyrics speaking out against the government and opposed anything that was deemed normal by society. With the music also came the fashion: chaotic eye makeup, spiked hair or dyed hair, tight jeans, and leather — a lot of leather. It’s safe to say that punk rock has one of the most well-known subculture fashion aesthetics and is one of the most idolized. But like any good fashion statement, it stands for something. Why is punk made up of shredded pants, studs, leather, and a “screw the world” attitude? Easy — it’s punk rock. The subculture of punk rock is non-confirmative, meaning they don’t conform to the societal standards of normal. Punk always wanted to be different. It was a subculture of people who felt that they didn’t fit in with society. Through hard-hitting music and fashion, punk has created a substantial difference in the music and fashion industry, and is still widely loved today. The Ramones have been credited with popularizing the punk staple: Levi’s jeans and leather jackets. Richard Hell, the lead singer of Richard Hell and the Voidoids, was one of the first performers to have spiked hair, and he performed in a shirt that was held together by safety pins. Other members of the band were known to wear clothing that had been littered with wear and tear. Back then, ripped clothing wasn’t considered fashion, but the Ramones and punk bands alike didn’t care — it was their style. They had no money for fancy clothing or stylists, so they made do with what they had and eventually helped create one of the most recognizable fashion statements to this day. The punk scene is known for men wearing makeup, having long hair, and dressing in outlandish, androgynous, dark clothing. In fact, these fashion statements are iconic. Before they knew it, men in punk were breaking societal norms with eyeliner and piercings, which made it powerful for men to join in on the trends. Malcolm McLaren was the former manager of The New York Dolls. He later moved to England and, in 1974, opened up a clothing boutique that sold bondage gear, countercultural wear, and nonmaterial aides. The boutique was simply called Sex, and he ran it with his wife, Vivienne Westwood. This type of style quickly made way into the punk scene, partially defining it. Because of this boutique, McLaren came in contact with the Sex Pistols, who were regular shoppers there. The fashion of choice was guys wearing makeup, form-fitting shirts, and clothing

that was torn, meaning punk clothing was rebelling against society and its hideous need for normality. Punk clothing was used in an ironic way. It was a way to say “look at me” and “ask me what I think.” Punk was intended to point out everything wrong with society. The rebellious clothing and music worked because it made people pay attention. It switched societal norms completely and got away with it. Some clothing was deemed feminist. Some clothing was simply loaded with spikes and tears. Together, this clothing created a conversation, which was a gateway to the music itself. Punk was revolutionary because it was working to spread new ideas, create, and innovate. Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, punk was notorious in cities such as London and New York City. The whole movement caused a complete uproar for those who did not dare get involved. It was catastrophic. While the ’60s emphasized peace and love, punk rock flipped that. Because of the culture shock and uproar, some people thought punk was dangerous. Punk bands and fans alike were mostly made up of the middle class. Many young people in the middle class were unemployed, which made them incredibly angry. Beneath the tattered clothing, spiked and dyed hair, and smudged eyeliner were people who had been wronged by the system. The Sex Pistols called for anarchy against the government with one of their hit songs, “Anarchy in the UK.” Punk clothing was the decoration of their truth — their truth being that they had been wronged by their government. Punk decided enough is enough. This subculture has truly changed a generation. You see pictures of the the Ramones, Iggy and The Stooges, the Sex Pistols, The Clash, etc., and you recognize this style of clothing. Something as simple as a leather jacket has a whole new meaning thanks to punk rock. People who identified with punk knew that they were a part of a subculture. The outlandish clothing was a way to be recognized, and recognition meant people were paying attention — they were listening. Punks may have been ridiculed, questioned, or loved, but they inspired a whole movement — a movement that is still loved to this very day. Clothing is how you express yourself. Being punk meant having different beliefs — standing away from the “in” crowd and being okay with that. The clothing was a statement, the style of the movement. Next time you put on a leather jacket and Levi’s and love your outfit, you can thank the Ramones.

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OLD LADIES OF INSTAGRAM Written by: Carly Swanson Visuals Courtesy of @baddiewinkle on Instagram

In their Fall 2018 promotional photos, Madewell features an older woman with big curly grey hair wearing their newest pieces of the season. There was a positive reaction to these photos. Madewell shoppers found it refreshing to see an older women modeling for a brand — especially because she is looking sexy and lively, rather than modestly crossing her arms like many older women in showcases for other stores. The more I thought about these ads, the more I became aware of the tokenism of, and contradictory tone towards, older women in the fashion industry. Now that it is trendy to have a model over 40, brands will throw them in here and there to seem progressive. However, these brands do not understand or care about what older women want out of fashion. They do not take into consideration the needs of their audience unless that audience is youthful and trend-setting. This results in a lack of options when shopping. Clothing aimed for mature women is often understated and simple, but that is not how all women want to dress. Luckily, there are a growing number of older women with blogs and social media followings who are changing the landscape for women of all ages and improving their relationship with fashion. 90-year-old Helen Ruth Elam Van Winkle is an Instagram sensation better known as her username, Baddiewinkle. With a bright and colorful feed and a bio that reads, “stealing ur manz since 1928,” it’s no wonder that she has 3.7 million followers. She went viral in 2014 after her great-granddaughter took a photo of her wearing cutoff denim shorts, a tie-dye shirt, and pink and white HUFF socks, all while shooting the camera a peace sign. Baddiewinkle explained to NPR that she thinks it went viral because they saw a great-grandmother that didn’t care what anybody thought about her. She told NPR that her fans think, “Here’s a rebel. We like her.” “They want to be me when they get older. They want to do what I’m doing when they get as old as I am,” she said to CNN in reference to her younger fans. While Baddie has a largely young audience, she is also helping older women realize they do not have to live by any mold or societal standard. Judith Boyd of Style Crone has 42.2 thousand follow-

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ers on Instagram and an impressive hat collection, and she helps women feel more confident in their own skin every day. “I make my own style rules and I wear what I love,” she said to Refinery 29. “This in turn contributes to my health and quality of life. I would like people to look forward to aging as a positive era of life and not fear the years as they transpire.” In an interview with the blog Fabulous After 40, she added, “‘Age Pride’ is important, no matter your age. For older people, ageism enters the picture, and it becomes even more important to embrace and accept one’s age. … I’m learning more about how I can confront my own inner ageist, and I’m becoming active in changing policies and beliefs that reinforce and strengthen ageism.” As much progress as there has been in increasing representation of older women in fashion, there is still a long way to go. Alyson Walsh is a fashion journalist and author, and she works strongly toward bridging the gap between age and beauty. She started her blog “That’s Not My Age” in 2008 because she felt that women over 40 were being ignored by the fashion industry. “Brands use a gray-haired, 70-year-old model and think they’ve ticked the ‘age box,’ but there are many different ways of aging — many different decades, body shapes, ethnicities, and sizes,” she said to Refinery 29. “Don’t get me wrong, I love seeing all these wonderful older models. I would just like to see more diversity, a more nuanced version of aging.” Most fashion advertising and promotion happens on social media. Because these apps are used predominantly by teenagers and young people, they are often the target demographic of trends, brands, and media influencers. However, these norms are evolving as older women become more popular on Instagram. These bloggers are completely transforming the world of fashion and the perception of the complexities of aging. As the conversation surrounding confident, intelligent, and fashionable older women grows, more people will realize that “old” does not equate to frumpy modesty, and age does not dictate a person’s scope of opportunity and creativity.

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EDGY STREETWEAR A Photoseries

Visuals by: Brielle Cruz and Danielle Cipriano

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INNOVATIVE DESI CELEBRATE CULT Written by: Deanna Wetmore Visuals by: Amy Thomas

There are specific fashion trends that can be attributed to different regions across the U.S. — for example, the “Jersey girl” or the “surfer dude from Cali” outfits. These may be stereotypes, but these trends do give a sense of style that is close to home. Fashion and the clothes that people wear can provide a sense of comfort when they are separated from their home. Research shows that fashion can affect a person’s mood, health, and confidence. Professors at Northwestern University Adam Hajo and Adam Galinsky write in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology about a psychological term called “enclothed cognition.” Hajo and Galinsky write that this phenomenon “involves the cooccurrence of two independent factors — the symbolic meaning of the clothes and the physical experience of wearing them.” The symbolic meaning of a person’s culture represented in clothing can allow a person to feel connected with home no matter how far away they may be. There are many fashion designers around the globe who take a traditional style of clothing and create a new modern version that reflects a fashion-forward trend while maintaining their history and culture. Here are five fashion designers that are inspired by their cultures and create innovative designs. 1. Asiya Bareeva (Instagram @asiyabareeva) Asiya Bareeva is a Russian fashion designer that is inspired by the culture of Buddhists and Islamists. Her designs are ankle-length garments that are layered with different fabrics. A lot of the clothes that she designs combine neutral colors with fabrics that have detailed embroidery and lace accents. As a Muslim woman, Bareeva’s designs showcase Islamic codes of modesty, but Bareeva’s popularity reaches beyond the Muslim community. Models that wear Bareeva’s designs acknowledge Islamic code but are also inspired by what the Calvert Journal says is “empowered womanhood.” 2. Iman Aldebe (Instagram @imanaldebe) Iman Aldebe is a designer from Sweden and is also a Muslim woman who creates traditional but fashionable attire for other Muslim women. Aldebe designs around the hijab, or headscarf, that Muslim women wear. Aldebe hijab

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designs are now considered high fashion couture and are only sold in stores in Sweden, Paris, New York, and Dubai. Aldebe was inspired to create fashionable hijab styles for Muslim women to wear because she was discriminated against when looking for jobs. “I decided to change [the way I wore it], from wrapping it around my face to tying it all at the back like a traditional African head wrap. I went to the interview and I was accepted,” Aldebe said in an interview for Al Jazeera. “I felt that I could make some changes that wouldn’t compromise my beliefs and would be acceptable both within my religion and within Swedish society.” When Aldebe realized that the fashion world had an untapped market for Muslim women she started her own business and made her hijab line. 3. Hwang Yi-Seul (Dew Hwang) (Instagram of Dew Hwang clothing line: @leesle) Hwang Yi-Seul, who is also known as Dew Hwang, is a Korean designer who is inspired by the traditional Korean dress hanbok. Hanboks, which consist of long skirts and cropped jackets, have been around for thousands of years. Hwang’s designs have an A-line form that creates the look of a traditional hanbok, but Hwang uses modern fabrics such as cotton or denim to produce a more modern feel. The designs come in pastel or bold colors and are made for both men and women. Hwang launched her online store Sonjjang Design Hanbok in 2007 and soon after began branching out to designing more formal hanbok pieces and creating hanbok cocktail and wedding dresses. 4. Purvi Doshi (Instagram @purvi.doshi) Purvi Doshi is a fashion designer from Gujarati, India. Doshi is inspired by the traditional crafting techniques of handwoven cloth used in her culture. By incorporating more modern styles (such as floral) and different textures, Doshi is able to make the traditional style of a kurta into something for the modern person to wear every day. A kurta is a straight-cut long shirt or dress that was traditionally worn by men and would be paired with a churidar and a loose-fitting salwar. With Doshi’s designs, kurtas are made to be unisex and can be worn for informal or formal occasions.

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SIGNERS LTURE 5. Yoshiki (Instagram of Yoshiki’s fashion line @ yoshikimono) Yoshiki Hayashi, known as “Yoshiki,” is a Japanese rock star from the band X Japan who designed and started his own fashion line. Yoshiki’s fashion line, called “Yoshikimono,” is inspired by the traditional Japanese dress the kimono. Unlike the silk material used in traditional kimonos, Yoshiki designs use a sheer material that has floral, animal, and sometimes geometric prints. As the first son of a kimono fabric dealer, Yoshiki wanted to introduce modern kimonos to the world. After meeting with one of the most prestigious kimono makers, Keigo Kano, Yoshiki’s dream of creating his own line of kimonos became a reality. The “Yoshikimono” brand started in 2011 but really took off in 2015, when Yoshikimono debuted at Mercedes-Benz fashion week in Tokyo. When designers incorporate tradition into new fashion, it can make people to feel free to express themselves without losing their feeling of home and their connection to their ancestral and religious roots. If fashion can really have such a strong impact on people, then it is important that everyone feel included.

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VINTAGE

A Photoseries in Collaboration with The Vintage Industry Visuals by: Olivia Acuna

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TATI JORIO Written by: Rhiannon Coleman Photography by: Brielle Cruz

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Tati Jorio is the president of Generation Action, a chapter of Planned Parenthood here at Ithaca College. Concerned about the future of reproductive rights after the 2016 election, Tati joined Generation Action in order to create a safe and inclusive space on campus. Lifestyle editor Rhiannon Coleman sat down with Tati to discuss her work as a human rights advocate and campus organizer. Rhiannon Coleman: What’s your major and what year are you? Tati Jorio: I’m a senior film, photo, visual arts major and politics minor. I’m working on a film right now with my good friend April Carroll documenting our stories as two women of color navigating a film school and an industry that doesn’t feel like it is built for us to succeed in. RC: So, you’re the president of Generation Action. Tell me about the organization and its purpose/ intentions. TJ: So, Generation Action is a project of Planned Parenthood Action Fund. There are hundreds of Generation Action Chapters all across the country. It’s a network of young people working together to fight for reproductive freedom and justice for all people. We create campus campaigns based on our campus needs, react to injustice we see happening on campus, in our community, and in our society at large. This semester, our campus campaign is free menstrual products for all students who need them. We have also hosted a voter registration drive, an eliminating abortion stigma event with a local Ithaca group, released a press release in response to the IC Republicans to stand with the Latinx community, and we hosted the #believe survivors walkout in light of Kavanaugh’s nomination, to support survivors on our campus, and to state that we believe Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and we still believe Anita Hill. RC: When did you first join and how long have you been president? TJ: I joined after the Trump’s election in 2016. That was my sophomore year, second semester. I came on as vice president. At the time, the president was the only member because a lot of the executive board had gone abroad. This is now my second semester as president of Gen Action.

RC: When did you know that you wanted to get involved in politics? TJ: Haha. It’s kind of funny, but when Obama got elected, I gave a speech at my middle school about his inauguration. I think it was then that I started paying attention. Then in high school, when Michael Brown was murdered by police, a few students from my high school organized a walkout. I think it was then that I realized it didn’t matter my age, that organizing together could have real power. As far as joining Generation Action and getting involved on campus, I would attribute that to events that happened my freshman year and to the presidential election. It was my freshman year when I first started hearing stories of different people being sexually assaulted, and it was also the year of the IC POC’s movement demanding Tom Rochon’s resignation. These events inspired me to get more involved in making a difference in my community. Then when I saw Donald Trump get elected to the highest office after bragging about assaulting women, after talking about grabbing women by the pussy, after demonizing and shaming undocumented immigrants, after rejecting trans identities, after encouraging white supremacy, and so much more. I realized I wanted to be a part of an organization on campus that was going to work against this. For me, this happened to be Generation Action. RC: Do you think that being involved in politics/ advocacy is a choice or a duty as an American citizen? TJ: I think we are at a moment in time when if you can be involved in politics and advocacy, if you feel safe and if you are able, then you should use your voice and your platform. But I also think it’s really important to use this voice in the right way. For

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example, I think it’s important that those who attend the women’s marches also attend the Black Lives Matter marches. I think it’s important to know when your voice should and shouldn’t be the loudest in the room. As for me, even though I’m Latina, I often pass as white, and so I’m aware that sometimes it might be easier and less painful for me to speak out against certain things, and when I can do this in a way that I think is right, I will. I’m learning a lot more about my identity as a Latinx person lately, and this also means I’m learning a lot more about my voice and place in politics and advocacy. I think it’s my duty as a student to create a safe space on campus for students, and I think with Generation Action and countless other organizations on campus, that is being done. RC: Tell me about the relationships you’ve developed as part of Generation Action and Planned Parenthood. TJ: The members and the e-board of generation action all mean a lot to me. When I was a freshman, I didn’t really have people like them to talk to about the issues affecting our campus community, and now I have a community that not only is dedicated to discussing these issues, but to taking action and creating change. I’m really going to miss them next year. Also this past summer, I was accepted in to Planned Parenthood’s Student Leadership Cohort on Race & Inclusion. We had our first meeting with the cohort this summer in Detroit at the Power of Pink conference. This was a really emotional and powerful experience for me. It was one of the first times I heard stories that were so closely similar to mine. The cohort allowed me to talk about aspects of my identity that I think about every day, but don’t always have the space to talk about them. The cohort also paired me with my mentor, Adrienne, who is the COO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains. And she’s a woman of color with similar

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skin color privilege to me, so it’s been really nice to relate to her and have her validate me as a leader. She’s taught me a lot about leadership and working together. Also, the director of Public Affairs at Planned Parenthood of the Southern Finger Lakes, Ashleigh, has been someone who has taught me a lot about organizing and has always cheered us on, and been a great resource for IC Gen Action. RC: Do you think that you will continue working together after school, whether it be in filmmaking or advocacy? TJ: I definitely think that these people I’m working with are change-makers and I would love to work with them again whenever I can. I’m not sure if we will necessarily all work together in the same way again, but I’m sure we will all be working towards similar things from wherever we are. I also think I’ve made some really strong friendships through campus organizing and filmmaking. Some of my best friends are people I met bonding over our experience in film school and advocacy. RC: What do you think about the political responsibility that seems to lie on the shoulders of younger generations, especially with campaigns like Rock the Vote? TJ: I think there is a responsibility on younger people who are eligible to vote to do so. If you don’t vote, someone else will vote against your values. I also think encouraging younger generations to vote is great because when more people from younger generations vote, we see younger people that represent our progressive values elected to office. Something that I do wish was in the case of democratic primaries, is that campaigns like Rock the Vote were also encouraging voters to do their research on candidates. I also wish that these campaigns found a way to highlight the people who in fact are eligible and still cannot vote due to voter suppression. I think sometimes this gets ignored by mass media. Even though I think mass media

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probably did influence a lot of people to vote, there are still a lot of young people on this campus who didn’t vote. Is it because they thought their vote was taken care of because of how publicized voting was? Or they couldn’t mail in their ballot in time? I don’t really know. But I hope that the midterms and the very close races showed people to not take their vote for granted, and I hope they vote next election. You get a cool sticker! RC: What’s the most difficult part about organizing on campus? TJ: There’s a lot, but personally I always get annoyed if I know that there are a lot more people who support what we’re doing but they just don’t turn up. Of course there are people who don’t feel comfortable in those spaces, but for the people that do feel comfortable and support us and want to show up, but don’t, I always wish that they would actually come and not just press “interested” on Facebook. I think sometimes student activism can be performative or for the social credibility. I just hope that people continue to work together in the right ways for the right reasons. Also, I think a lot of activist spaces are not always inclusive to all students, and I think this has to change. In that same vein, it’s also hard to represent all people because our campus community is predominately white. Also, for Generation Action, since we react to things on campus and current events, sometimes we struggle with responding to those events, while also focusing on our campaign. It’s a hard balance, and I think we are still learning that. A lot of the current events we are responding to are emotionally tolling and taxing, for some of us more than others. For example, it was difficult for me that after our walk out in support of survivors, I had to watch Brett Kavanaugh confirmed as Supreme Court judge. This was more difficult for survivors on campus. It was also hard on me when a press release by a campus organization spewed racist rhetoric that

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personally attacked my Latinx identity and mother’s identity as a Dominican immigrant. It’s difficult for campus organizers and students everywhere and every day. Also, we are all students, not all of us know everything about every issue, and I think it’s important to always be willing to do the research and to admit when you aren’t really sure about a topic or an issue. I wish more people would speak more candidly and honestly about how hard it can be, because then we could work together and support each other more.

issues have become politicized. Sexual assault should not be political. Registering voters should not political. Equal rights and respect for all people should not be political. These are basic human rights and Generation Action will always be there to stand against transphobic, homophobic, sexist, anti-semitic, ableist, or racist rhetoric. Meetings for Generation Action are on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in Friends 207.

RC: What’s the most rewarding part? TJ: There’s also a lot. Making a safe space for students to talk about the issues affecting our community is rewarding, but giving those students the tools to make our campus a better place and take action is the most rewarding. Taking action together — registering voters, calling our representatives, speaking out, and standing with survivors — those are the rewarding parts. Also, I think it’s rewarding to know that in some way, I’m making an impact on IC after I leave. RC: What are your plans after graduation? TJ: I don’t know. I’m sort of overwhelmed and excited with the possibilities: traveling, organizing, filmmaking. I definitely see myself working on my own film projects, and also organizing and working with an organization like Planned Parenthood. Also, the Lower East Side, where I’m from, means a lot to me, so I’d also love to work for an organization that would benefit my community. But the short answer is I don’t really know where or what I’ll be doing yet. RC: What do you think about those who say you should not react to opposing political statements by other groups? TJ: I think that statements about certain identities that are racist and discriminatory should be reacted to because that is a human rights issue. I personally don’t view reacting to these statements as a political thing. I view it as a difference between right and wrong. It’s unfortunate that certain identities and

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A REVOLUTION FOR RESPONSIBILITY Written by: Deanna Wetmore | Visual by: Matilde Bechet

Revolt. Rebellion. Uprising. Riot. These words are associated with one powerful term, “revolution,” which creates an outcome that is even more impactful — change. It is rare that change happens without a revolution. People that advocate for change during a revolution are backed with passion, purpose, and strong will. Most revolutions begin with the intent to overthrow a government and create a new political power. These types of revolutions usually start with an opposition that is oppressed by power. For example, in 2011, Egypt went through a revolution in order to overthrow the 30-year-long presidency of Hosni Mubarak. The revolution took to social media, creating international coverage of what was going on. Use of hashtags, videos of gassing citizens, and blog posts about the government system all were used to protest the government. The rebellion in Egypt created the first election in over 30 years. Mohamed Morsi, who was from an Islamistbased party, became Egypt’s newly elected president. Unfortunately, this leader was not good for the people of Egypt and re-wrote Egypt’s constitution to increase the role of Islam and restrict freedom of speech and assembly rights. More protests and a new rebellion started to overthrow President Morsi. Currently, Egypt’s political climate is still not well and its citizens live in danger. Egypt’s revolution is both an example of a success and a bad outcome. The people were able to elect a new leader, but while in a vulnerable state of political uneasiness, the newly elected leader took basic rights away from his people. A revolution requires a lot of responsibility. It is a responsibility to follow through with a revolution, to recognize a problem and to take the right actions to get it resolved. That is what Egypt’s citizens did; they kept rebelling when they were not satisfied. How can we take responsibility for our revolutions? “Our” revolutions, the causes that individuals fight for, may not be as high stakes as overthrowing a government. The modern environmental revolution, for example, started in the 1960s and has since become a worldwide revolt against toxins created by industrial companies and against the waste produced by daily consumers. On a smaller scale, political revolutions can create change within a government without completely removing it. A voting revolution among millennials has been a major topic for headlines, particularly after the 2016 presidential election. People in their 20s to early 30s are regarded by

older generations as passive and self-involved. But with the large political divide, millennials are becoming more aware of political candidates in the local and national elections. And millenials are voting. The aftermath of the 2018 elections shows this through the record number of women and minority candidates elected into office. Blogger Tierra Gonzalez wrote about the impact of young voters in a post on The Hill. “As pragmatic idealists who believe deeply in causes, our priorities and concerns have shaped agendas and, when channeled, have provided the momentum for our country’s new attitudes toward members of the LBGT community, immigrants and women’s rights,” she wrote. “Unlike generations past, we have reached a consensus on some of the major issues that have proved divisive for our elders.” Social justice causes like the ones Gonzalez mentioned are important revolutions that involve passing laws, and in the United States, passing amendments. Like revolutions seeking to overthrow a government, social justice revolutions are created by people that have been oppressed and, as the name suggests, seek justice. Movements such as #MeToo have taken to social media to accuse powerful men in the entertainment industry and in politics of sexual assault. According to a New York Times article, 201 men were fired from their positions because of sexual assault accusations. Out of those 201 men, 124 positions have been replaced, and 54 have been replaced by women. This is the real question that needs to be asked in a modern world that has access to information and global connection: Are we responsible enough to start a revolution? Or perhaps this is a better question: Are we responsible enough to see a revolution though? If the answer is yes, then it is easy enough to get started. Revolution is what drives people to join a cause, creates platforms to spread awareness over wrongdoing, and in the end, creates the change that is needed to make the world a better place to live.

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WHAT IS ANARCHI Written by: Arleigh Rodgers

Activism is undoubtedly present on Ithaca College’s campus. The college is home to a number of activist student organizations, and in many ways, protest is ingrained in the actions and everyday lives of many students on its campus. The debate between nonviolent and radical activists isn’t novel, but it seems the current political climate has recently heightened tensions between left-wing activists and right-wing supporters. The divide is nearly palpable. The anger is tangible and clear. And it seems young people are looking to get more involved in activism than ever before. Ithaca College students and community members alike share a home in Ithaca — but that doesn’t necessarily mean their activism is homogenous. Freshman Isabella New-Walker said she prefers a nonviolent approach to her activism. “I feel like if you just go straight and attack someone, it’s not going to help to get your point across,” New-Walker said. “If anything they’ll just get super aggressive, and it’s just arguing back and forth, and it’s not helpful.” New-Walker also said she believes that to combat these aggressive disagreements, people must actively engage in open conversation. She said this is the best way to go about a disagreement with someone. “I like to engage in actual conversations with people so that I can also benefit from their point of view and whatnot,” New-Walker said. “With nonviolence, it’s just a much better strategy than causing chaos, ’cause it’s like the chaos distracts sometimes from your message. … It doesn’t help in the sense that it makes you look bad, as well. Just taking the higher

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ground is always a thousand times better in helping you get your message across.” River Rushing, a former Ithaca College student, said they identify as an anarchist. And while some might equate anarchism with violence, Rushing said, anarchism is peace in their eyes. “In anarchism, the health and well-being of the community is crucial,” Rushing said via email. “Like, doing volunteer work or community development work is inherently anarchist. … I mean, observing anarchism as it is defined simply means existing without hierarchy or government. People would be equal and would take their own responsibility to best serve their community.” Both Rushing and New-Walker said they advocate for nonviolence in their activism. However, while New-Walker said she believes true pacifism is the best way to go about activism, Rushing said they believe love can coexist with anger. “I personally advocate for nonviolence,” Rushing said. “I am a fan of using education and art as protests. … But, I will say out of my own personal opinions, if that human has given up their humanity and empathy in an attempt to assert their violent dominance, I don’t have the patience.” New-Walker said she uses her Instagram as a platform to fuel her passion for open conversation and pacifism. “I do a lot of stuff over social media since I’m lucky enough to access so many people,” New-Walker said. “It’s super easy, and I can talk to people. I think that social media’s a huge part of my activism.” New-Walker also said her Quakerism, something

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AN HIST? she said has been present in her life for a long time, has shaped her activism. “I wasn’t always super into being pacifist because I thought, ‘Oh, riots and stuff will work,’ but … it’s just so disorganized,” New-Walker said. “When I got really into Quakerism and started going to meetings more and stuff like that, I sort of accepted pacifism a lot more. … In the civil rights movement, there was Bayard Rustin, and he helped so much, and obviously that whole movement was nonviolent. I definitely think that nonviolence goes a long way, and my Quakerism has helped me get into touch with pacifism. Rushing said they cannot truly be pacifist because they are angry, tired, and scared of what may happen if they don’t fight back. “I don’t want to defend myself and defend the people I love who are also targets of hate,” they said. “I wish I didn’t have to. I wish we didn’t need to fight back. And, honestly, the older I get and the more I look around me, I begin to replace my anger and sense of rebellion with feelings of cold, heartbreaking emptiness. … These feelings take up significant psychological space. But they are often invalidated because expressing these feelings disturbs the status quo.” New-Walker said she believes the way left-wing and right-wing supporters communicate — or the lack of communication between the two groups — is something we should be tackling more directly. “There’s this going back and forth at each other, and there’s no real conversation — or anyone at least trying to come to a middle ground, and we just don’t

hear each other out and have civil conversations,” New-Walker said. “I feel like, just going back and forth and yelling and being violent, that’s not going to help either side and it’s not going to help us progress as a country and as just a human race.” Rushing said they believe one of the most widespread misconceptions about anarchism is that anarchism is equal to social unrest, chaos, and violence. They said social change — specifically the death and rebirth of a society — should be the ultimate goal, and that goal does not necessarily need to come by violent means. “When I call for the dismantlement of the police state, I am advocating the defense of people who are affected by police sanctioned violence, such as queer people, trans people, poor people, and people of color,” Rushing said. “A Nazi/fascist and a Nazi/ fascist-sympathizer will never get my patience or respect. He literally wants me to die and you think I can just ‘love’ him until he loves me back? … Because of that cruelty, he has forfeited his humanity. I will defend people who fight back after their oppressors have held them down and inflicted violence onto them for centuries.”

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COMMERCIAL REV IRONICALLY UNET Written by: Madolyn Laurine Visuals by: River Rushing

“WHATEVER YOUR CAUSE, WEAR IT LOUD AND PROUD.” Whether your clothes represent your favorite social or cultural movements, this is a motto often easily adopted. And with today’s powerful modes of shopping through the internet and big retailers, wearing your identity on your sleeve is even easier. Clothing and merchandise retailers expound on opportunities to make clothes for all kinds of cultural movements, from gay pride to Black History Month. But what difference are big brands making for these revolutionary issues? The answer is often very little. According to compiled information by Vox writer Alex Abad-Santos, “Companies, including H&M, donate a portion of what their customers spend on pride merchandise to LGBTQ charities. The amount going to charity varies by the company and product: J.Crew donates 50 percent of the purchase price of its pride T-shirts; H&M only donates 10 percent of the sales from its ‘Pride Out Loud’ collection.” How are those movements represented in consumerism, and how can we spend our dollar to counter those negative players? Ultimately, are we really supporting an issue if we’re buying from huge brands?

BLACK HISTORY AND CIVIL RIGHTS Throughout history, the civil rights movement has been represented on clothes and posters. Today, the day of the Black Lives Matter movement and the modern civil rights era, outfits can still make a statement. Claiming identity and a personal promotion of justice can live on a T-shirt, laptop cover, or Facebook timeline photo. Whether youth of this college generation subscribe to the revolutionary movements of Martin Luther King Jr. and non-violent civil rights or to the raised fist of Malcolm X and the Black Panther Party, there have never been more options for visible support. Senior Vanessa Zimmerman carries around her favorite revolutionary movements on the cover of her laptop.

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Zimmerman purchased her stickers from Redbubble, an online platform for independent artists and designers to sell their wares. Although artists do benefit, Redbubble makes commission on each purchase. “Some of them are just kind of fun and cutesy,” Zimmerman said. “But then there’s others that I feel like explicitly connect with my identity as a person of color, so there’s also Angela Davis and Maya Angelou. The two women are very much inspirations to me in terms of writing and the way they live their lives as organizers.” Zimmerman said she strives to achieve at their level, but that she needs to be mindful of where she places her dollar. Back in her freshman year, Zimmerman said, she could have used resources for accessing black-owned businesses. “I didnt think about it at the time, but where does the money go on a place like Redbubble?” Zimmerman said. “I remember when the POC at IC movement was happening, students made stickers for the issue here. I wish I had bought some from them, instead of Redbubble. In February 2018, Nylon magazine writer Hafeezah Nazim compiled a list of 20 black-owned fashion brands. Some brands self-sustain on sales revenue while others donate to black and African-American causes. Their catalogue connects shoppers to T-shirts about the Black Panther Party and the Black Panther movie, as well as Etsy pages run by college students around the country, like Olatiwa Karade’s Splendid Rain Co. Athleisure brand Yema donates a percentage of their sales to youth education in Nairobi. Ernest Owens, a 24-year-old black entrepreneur and journalist, said that investing in black, African-American, and POC businesses is one of the best ways to support those communities. Owens said he feels that people say “black lives matter,” but don’t know how to show it. “What about economic growth and stability to help heal our struggling neighborhoods?” Owens asked in Huffington Post: Black Voices. With outlets like the Huffington Post dedicating entire sections to black and African-American voices, supporting those interests has never been easier.

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VOLUTION: THICAL SPENDING GAY AND LGBTQ+ PRIDE During Gay Pride Month, it’s difficult to walk through a shopping center or district without seeing a constant flash of the color spectrum. Just as brands capitalize on Civil Rights Movements, Gay Pride Month has turned into a time for sales, sales, sales. Plugging a simple phrase like “gay pride” into the search bar brings up almost 200 items on the Forever 21 website. Items include clothing and accessories for women, men, and plus-sized people; most include some kind of rainbow or graphic printed statement about love and equality. Forever 21 is one of the main fast-fashion retailers around the globe, and while it brings accessible items to those who want to support gay rights, other bands use their sales to support LGBTQ+ organizations. Senior Cameron Mitchell, who identifies as gay and male, said he values brands that support, instead of capitalize on, celebrating and fighting for gay rights. “I feel as though a lot of brands support the LGBTQ+

community today,” Mitchell said. “But because there is so much support, I can’t help but wonder if these companies are choosing to advance and support the rights of LGBTQ+ people in the U.S., or because it is now cool to sell clothing and accessories with rainbows on them.” An example of positive corporate partnership is Madewell’s “Love to all (!)” line, which donates 50 percent of the purchase price to the Human Rights Campaign, the country’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ people. Mitchell himself shops the line. “When I discovered Madewell had partnered with Human Rights Campaign and that the tote bag they were selling was not only cute but my money was going towards a great organization, I had to buy it,” Mitchell said. As consumers in the world of fast fashion and big retail, there is a duty to identity and support movements we love. Take time to find the resources which will point you in the right direction, toward brands like ones mentioned here. We could all make a greater difference by connecting our consumer habits with our character.

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THE UNDERWORLD OF GOTH CULTURE Written by: Casey Miller

Goth is a subculture — a cultural group within a larger culture, often having beliefs or interests at variance with those in the larger culture. Those in a subculture live their own separate lifestyles in a sort of underground culture; however, they are not part of a cult or exclusive society, as certain stereotypes would have you believe. Other commonly known examples of subcultures are punk, emo, and hippie. Today the focus is on the world of goth, so strap on your combat boots and put on some black lipstick as we look into this cultural underworld. There are many stigmas and stereotypes intertwined with the people who identify as goth. The title usually brings up a mental image of broody people in black clothes obsessed with death and drugs and generally characterized by darkness and despair. In reality, the goth lifestyle is so much more — with its own music, personal style, and interest in topics that “normals” would deem taboo. Goth has long been a term used to describe counter-cultural movements throughout history, dating back to the Middle Ages when those who invaded the Roman Empire were referred to as barbaric Goths. Following that, ornate Gothic architecture and literature juxtaposed the previously popular Renaissance architecture and literature. Evidently, the origins of goth culture are rich in historical and artistic influences. A lot of the negative portrayal has to do with media depictions of goth people. Television shows such as “Law & Order” might include a character in dark makeup carrying the label of the evil Satanist obsessed with killing. The audience may perceive that person as simply a goth, and inherently associate those stereotypes with any other goth they come across. The connection of the Satanic religion and goth style is true for some but not all. Satanism in itself is an infamous religion that comes with stigmas of its own. Because of the evil stereotype that is tied to both Satanists and goths, the two are naturally associated with each other. There is no way to say what faith a goth might follow, as there is no one religion that is wholly representative of the goth subculture. There is one other major confusion that should be addressed: Goth and emo are not the same thing. While both of these groups are defined by dark aesthetic themes, goth as a term and a movement has been around for much longer. Emo (short for emotional) is a subculture which, like goth, was brought about by a music movement. Emo music is distinctly different from goth music, as the overall melancholic appearance of emo focuses more on the gloomier

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end of the emotional range. Goth music can be described as bleak, with somber lyrics over discordant post-punk notes being representative of the early days of the modern goth movement. It was a style that manifested in the British post-punk revolution, which then brought on much of what characterizes modern goths, including the emergence of goth rock and fashion. Goth bands such as Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, and Joy Division appear with dark imagery inspired by the Victorian era and the horror genre. Some even claim that Siouxsie Sioux was the one to inspire goth fashion with her dramatic makeup and head-to-toe fishnets. The clothing worn by those in the subculture has since become incredibly diverse, and goths can now be seen in anything ranging from Victorian mourning gowns to black leather. Not only are goths their own division of culture, but there are subcategories within the goth subculture: trad goth, hippie goth, Victorian goth, cyber goth, pastel goth, vampire goth, gothabilly, and more. There are various interests that characterize these groups. For instance, the Victorian goths find their love of darkness in historical fashion and vintage aesthetics. On the other end of that spectrum is the pastel goth, a goth whose love for color does not dim in the face of a culture known for their love of dark clothes. These subgroups overall diversify the culture by creating a mosaic of different groups who are all part of a larger picture. A subculture is really nothing more than a group of people who all enjoy similar things, reaching across social class, race, and gender. Those who live a goth lifestyle might tell you being goth is a form of expressing their personal style. Others might tie it to their identity and live their entire lives in shades of black. Nonetheless, every participant’s description of the subculture could differ. Not every single goth is fully committed to a goth lifestyle. Some may just partake in activities on weekends, or enjoy the style without being a fan of goth music. Not many people know the truth behind the goth subculture, linking it to the many stigmas that surround it in the media and minds of the masses. But by spreading awareness of these seemingly small disparities, we can achieve a higher goal of relieving ignorance. Rather than painting an entire group of people as one specific stereotype, hopefully more people will be able to see the diversity within a subculture. There have always been those who find beauty in darkness, and the modern goth movement is no different.

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LIFESTYLE

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TOTAL GAME-ARCHY: THE LAWLESS WORLD OF RED DEAD REDEMPTION 2 Written by: James Baratta Photos Courtesy of: Rockstar Games

Rockstar Games, Inc. portrays the very essence of the dying West in its newest game “Red Dead Redemption 2,” the prequel to “Red Dead Redemption” (2010); this time with an enormous map, detailed characters and absolute chaos in the lawless, untamable land vagabonded by the infamous Van der Linde gang. The game’s story takes place in the year 1899 at the site of conflict between the law and lawlessness of America’s Old West. The protagonist, Arthur Morgan, is an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang, which is led by one Dutch Van der Linde. The group is a band of nomads constantly on the prowl for a new home. They make a living by robbing, killing and exploiting anyone they please while also establishing a nonsensical set of morals. This is influenced by the player’s decisions via the honor system mechanic, which is used to govern how the player is viewed and treated by various NPCs (Non-Player Characters). There’s a strange sense of humanity that exists underneath the marauding nature perceived at the surface. The world is very much alive with the cutthroat nature of bucolic America as well as the threatening urbanization that pastoralists and nomads fear is invading their land. The Van der Linde gang has their own way of preserving the evanescent lifestyle they’ve lived their entire lives. Both Morgan and Van der Linde express the hatred they have for government throughout the game’s storyline, as do other

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members of the gang. “Arthur came to share Dutch’s vision of a life lived free from civilization and the rule of law,” writes Red Dead Wiki. Anarchy is vibrant in this lawless heartland of Americana. Local lawmen are the only antagonists who act in favor of governmental authority. Not only is there a constant, visible conflict between the two groups, but the Van der Linde gang must also worry about bounty hunters, named gangs, and named antagonists. However, the Van der Linde gang is more than a group of ragtag marauders who wreak havoc in any way they please. Crimes are committed in order to benefit the entirety of the group, which includes women and children who typically don’t partake in gang activities — with the exception of widowed Sadie Adler. “We’re criminals, but we aren’t them,” says Van der Linde in the first chapter of the game to Adler upon their first encounter. Fine lines differentiate the Van der Linde gang from other criminals and even adjunct members of the federal government. The crimes committed by the Van der Linde gang aren’t perceived as senseless by the gang itself — despite the fact that the crimes involve killing, robbing, and exploiting innocent people who are not members of their concentrated group. However, the complexity of the gang lies in the ability of the player to help the gang in ways

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that don’t involve illegality. Some of these legal methods of assistance include hunting plentiful game and donating money to the community’s fund to upgrade camp resources. Rockstar’s software engineers aced the game’s mechanics. There are many dynamic ways the player can interact with his or her world. One can choose to truly take on the role of a marauder, which ultimately entails killing and robbing everything in sight. At the expense of Morgan’s honor, the player can rob innocent people, local stores and even homesteads, killing those who fail to comply. There’s also nothing stopping the player from walking into a saloon or hotel and shooting up the place … nothing except the law, that is. GQ called “Red Dead Redemption 2” a “generationdefining release,” and even went on to label it as “Rockstar’s best game ever.” Again, players have seized the opportunity to play as the anti-hero. This was seen in “Grand Theft Auto IV,” (2008) and the original “Red Dead Redemption,” (2010)

with the slight exception of “Grand Theft Auto V,” (2013) where players had the ability to choose from three antiheroes instead of one. The members of Van der Linde gang, who despise anything associated with society, live a lifestyle in a world of anarchy. Government exists as a force that, throughout the storyline, aims to prevent the savage ways in which the gang lives. The Red Dead series displays a myriad of themes around human nature and how it operates. Players witness and interact with the conflict between anarchy and civilization throughout the game’s story. Based upon the actions of both the Van der Linde gang and federal agents of the U.S. government, Red Dead persists in its depiction that savagery in human nature exists completely, but under different façades.

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A PLATFORM F Written by: Gabrielle Tola Visual by: Elise Littlefield

Where are the lines blurred between reality and illusions when it comes to social media? For some, managing their Instagram is second nature. It’s a getaway to their perfectly curated identities with selectively chosen pictures taken at only the finest 45-degree angles and accompanied by borderline provocative captions. For the rest of the population, however, it is a whirlwind of techniques and online etiquette, and keeping up is not worth the stress or overwhelming anxiety. There are unspoken rules to live up to: an aesthetically pleasing theme, a nonchalant and sporadic posting schedule to not annoy your followers with, an idea of whose stories and posts you’re going to pay attention to and when, etc. Of course, like any trend that touches popular culture, it inevitably brought about a new subculture — in this case, private instagrams or “finstas.” Private spam Instagrams, colloquially titled “finstas,” are the merge of the words “fake” and “Instagram.” They are a safe haven for risqué photos and chaotically long virtual journal entries, and a bottomless pit for memes and inside jokes for carefully selected eyes only. Typically, this is a private account on which only your closest friends follow you. You might create a private account to escape from the stress of keeping up an aesthetic, to have a place to vent, or simply to have somewhere to upload all the details of your unrequited love for your barista. On their finsta accounts, people are able to be their realest, unfiltered selves. I interviewed four different students on their experiences of this anarchist transition from pampering a flawless identity online for all to see to getting vulnerable in private. Social media impacts mental health and can introduce an unhealthy lifestyle, leading users to adapt a negative mindset. Rocio, an 18-year-old, said, “Every time I’ve gone on social media breaks, it’s been because of insecurities. I feel like the way we present ourselves on social media can sometimes be different than who we are in real life. My problem is that I super catfish, so when I get really insecure, I archive all my pictures because I feel like if someone were to see me in person they’d be like ‘wtf.’ So keeping up with that image online is just too exhausting.” Social media is infamous for its reputation of negatively influencing the mental health of its users, and the students I interviewed were in agreement. Instagram and other social media platforms often allow romanticized images of severe

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medical and mental conditions and, as a result, these images and comments persuade young users that these conditions are positive. This was true of Anna, who said, “Social media is genuinely toxic no matter if it’s a private or public account. You see so much that, at times, you become desensitized to it all. It also influences a lot of younger people. I remember when I first started using Instagram in 2012 that eating disorders as well as self-harm were romanticized so much. Being 12, it influenced my behavior and habits very heavily and was very bad for my mental health.” Those who don’t use social media can either fall on two very opposing ends of a spectrum. Non-users can either feel pure bliss at the surplus of time that they find when they don’t focus on social media or feel a fear of missing out on what goes on around then. Ariel, a 20-year-old film major, said, “I grew up in a very conservative household, so Instagram was very shunned upon. My parents always wanted me to be selfless. We always saw Instagram as egotistical, where it’s just about how you present yourself to other people. And some of those beliefs I still carry with me to this day, and that’s part of my fear. I’ve seen the impact social media has had on my friends, seeing them freak out over the amount of likes on their photos, and it’s kind of scary.” Alternatively, others feel a sense of liberation upon creating a private account. The lack of strict conventions and rules allows them to express themselves more authentically than they would on their public account. This is the case for Jasmine, an 18-year-old writing major who said, “I think it’s definitely become a safe space for me. I think everyone was excited as hell to have this provocative little secret to share with others and post whatever freely. I’m big on body positivity and my friends and I normally send each other our nudes regardless, so posting them on my extra private is just empowering to me. I like to rebel and post the raunchiest things about my life on private, but I can’t find the nerve to be that bold in public and I admire those who do! Sure, reputation is important, but we can argue that social media really isn’t that deep. So just f--- it, you know?” There’s definitely pressure around how to navigate social media, but it’s always those who defy the conventions that make a significant difference, so who’s to say which rules should be binding us to a specific behavior online?

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FOR ANXIETY

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ANGRY LY Written By: Carly Weckel

Controversy lies deep within punk rock. Punk started in the mid ’70s and was not mainstream in the slightest. Punk was categorized by the fast, distorted guitar riffs, aggressiveness, and edgy lyrics conveying a need for change in society. The ’70s and ’80s and eighties were a wild time for punk rock. The Sex Pistols released their debut single “Anarchy in the UK” in November 1976. John Joseph Lyden, otherwise known by his stage name, “Johnny Rotten,” opens up by introducing himself as the “Antichrist” and then claims that he wants anarchy in the U.K. In the song, he makes a slant rhyme between the word antichrist and anarchist. As controversial as this was, it kept crowds interested and even pleased. His goal was to gain the attention and anger of the established hierarchy in the U.K. The following year was just as controversial. In the summer of 1977, the Sex Pistols released their second single, “God Save the Queen.” While this song still stands as one of the most iconic punk songs written by one of the most iconic punk bands, it was actually banned in the U.K. by the BBC. People, including the queen herself, were outraged by this song and were disgusted that an anarchist song about a political figure could be released. Firstly, “God Save the Queen” is actually the title of the the British Royal National Anthem. Once the Sex Pistols took the title and created a new meaning centered on anarchy, chaos erupted around the country. People thought this song was a public assault on the queen and the monarchy. The song was about Britain having no future if the poor treatment of its citizens, mostly the middle class, did not cease. Here are some of the lyrics:

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN SHE’S NOT A HUMAN BEING THERE’S NO FUTURE IN ENGLAND’S DREAMING

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DON’T BE TOLD WHAT YOU WANT DON’T BE TOLD WHAT YOU NEED THERE’S NO FUTURE, NO FUTURE, NO FUTURE FOR YOU Vocalist Johnny Rotten had been attacked on multiple occasions, enduring beatings and bottles to the face all due to this song. But in the name of punk rock, the band continued performing the song as a way of starting a conversation. Through the controversy, this song put punk on the map, growing its audience. Protests like the Colour Strike in 1971 and the Postal Workers Strike of 1970 have been sparked by unfair treatment of the working class. Society was changing by the second, and the Sex Pistols had been born into this societal shift. The band represented England's working class and embraced the chaos of the world around it. Through controversial acts, lyrics, and their compelling stage performances, the Sex Pistols became an embodiment of anarchy, going down as one of the best and most controversial punk rock bands in history. As controversial as the Sex Pistols were, they weren’t alone. Punk bands like Iggy and The Stooges, The Clash, and the Dead Kennedys were just as controversial. For example, Iggy Pop (vocalist of The Stooges) and Sid Vicious (bassist of the Sex Pistols) were both recognized for being completely outrageous and distasteful. Both musicians were known for mutilating and carving words on their stomachs with razors or other sharp objects, and as disgusting as this act is, people applauded it. Of course, not every punk band back then was controversial, nor is every punk band today controversial, but I think the controversy truly conveys the anarchy imbedded throughout punk history. These musicians were

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YRICS making statements — statements that others were too afraid to make because they went against society’s norms. Through music, punk created its revolution, inciting others to follow, which they did. Punk is one of the most recognizable music genres because of these bands. And sometimes the punk lifestyle wasn’t the best or the nicest, but it made the noise that would help millions of people feel like they belonged somewhere — feel like they were no longer misfits. Punk rock takes an almost scenic direction in creating a metaphorical home for those who listen and engage in the culture. Punk is more than distorted guitar riffs and loud drums. It’s about making a change in society, stepping away from normalities, and standing up for yourself or the group you feel that you belong to. Punk is raw. Punk is angry. But punk was built to be accepting. Through their music, the Sex Pistols confronted the economic issues that they saw as prominent in society. Like-minded fans agreed with their sentiments, finding their messages important. Punk became more than music — it became a lifestyle, and this was why fans far and wide conformed to punk as a way to escape society. These ideologies are still prominent in the music industry today. Punk bands still seek inspiration from earlier punk bands like the Sex Pistols, Misfits, the Ramones, and The Stooges. The music acts as an anthem, but it’s the changes that bands make in society that cause the shift. Punk was not meant for mainstream listeners. It was made for people who felt as if they were society's outcasts. The music created the voice, while the bands led the scene. Even after the bands broke up, people kept punk alive. To this day, punk music is still vital to the industry because it still has that same rebellious voice. There will always be issues imbedded in society — issues that people will rebel against, will discuss, and will attempt to change by creating music. Punk meant to bring any type of identity that was hidden to the front row. The lyrics were raw and edgy, inspiring people and changing their mindsets. This is how people found

comfort in punk. Those who found the lyrics relatable essentially found a home. Most punk shows were hosted at small, rundown venues. The venues became crowded easily. Hardcore dance styles, otherwise known as moshing, became increasingly popular. People were jumping, banging their heads, and shouting the lyrics. Stage diving was also a popular act. All of this commotion made it difficult to find any personal space, but in the heat of the concert, none of that mattered. The audience was able to see their favorite band, meet new people, and sing the lyrics that they related to the most. This subculture turned into this angry, rebellious family that accepted its members without worrying about someone’s background, paycheck, or appearance. When you attended a show, it was a release of negative energy. Fans were able to let loose in a chaotic yet beautiful atmosphere. Punk is angsty, and — to people that are struggling, want to rebel, or want to see a change in society — it’s attractive. You’re upset and you want to scream? Punk will help you. You’re sad and you need to be understood? Punk is there.

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THE PURGE: A STUDY OF POLITICAL STRIFE ON SCREEN Written By: Rhiannon Coleman Visuals By: Brielle Cruz and Danielle Cipriano

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“The Purge” series directed by James DeMonaco consists of four feature-length films as well as a television show that was first released in 2013 with its first installment “The Purge.” The premise is interesting and original, as it is centered on the one night a year when all crime is legal in the U.S. as a way of both rewarding and promoting lower crime rates throughout the country. Some would consider this premise tasteless and garish, as it proposes the idea that one night of brutality and murder will somehow release people’s animalistic tendencies rather than lead to more crime. However, the fact that the film fails to explore its own premise feels a little more salient than the argument that the film’s premise isn’t even profound. The main character, a father and successful salesman for a company that makes and sells home security systems, almost specifically for the Purge night, lacks characterization and fails to make clear what exactly he believes is right. This moral ambiguity is shown when his son sees an injured man begging to be let into their house and consequently opens the metal doors to let him in. The

rest of the film consists of the family attempting to stay alive as the group of purgers now begin to target them. But the morality of the father still hangs in the air. Not only did he not want his son to help the injured man, but he attempts to reject the stranger in order to keep his family safe and only allows the man to stay with them once they realize that they are already targets themselves. So what is the right thing to do in this situation? The audience relies on the father to give us the answer but is instead met with cliché lines such as “things will never be the same ever again.” The effects of the purge on the father and his family in the first film are unfortunately only explored at surface level. The following two films in the franchise begin to focus on a completely different character named Leo. Leo is a sergeant who, following the murder of his son, attempts to avenge his death on Purge night. But while on his quest for vengeance, he runs into a group of people who are fighting for their lives against a gang of purge participants. The next two films, “The Purge: Anarchy” and “The Purge: Election Year,” focus on Leo as a kind of heroic protector of people

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who are just trying to survive the night. However, rather than thoroughly examining the franchise’s premise, the films hide behind thrilling yet quick moments of danger and weird, creepy masks to essentially use their own premise as an excuse to kill off characters without needing justification. Just by reading the titles of the movies, there is a clear exploitation of the political and pop culture moment: “The Purge: Election Year” came out in 2016 and the fourth film, “The First Purge,” uses “Make America Great Again” hats in their posters. Even the sheer quantity of these films with their ever-changing protagonists shows that there is no real stance on whether the purge is justifiable or not; this is simply just an exploitation franchise. As I was analyzing these movies for this inanely critical and somewhat ridiculous review, I did come to somewhat

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of a profound conclusion about what these tacky movies are speaking to in a larger context: These movies could not have existed in any time other than right now. And yes, of course that is an obvious statement, but also I mean this in the sense of what these films are really about — chaos, anarchy, revolution, crime, and just straight up violence. We live in a time when corruption runs rampant, the number of hate crimes and mass shootings is the highest it has ever been, and public dissatisfaction with the government is increasing by the day. In other words, these films not only exploit but inadvertently represent the chaos of our country right now. ... Or maybe they are just really s***** movies.

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SHOPPING ETHICALLY Written by: Carly Swanson

Shopping ethically and sustainably means being aware of how products impact the people that produce them and the effects this production process has on the environment, both good and bad. In a culture that is driven by the consumption of products, it can be difficult to pay attention to the impact that your shopping makes. This is especially tough while working with the budget of a college student — most companies that produce well-made items have a higher price tag. The tug between being sustainable and buying cheap goods is tricky to navigate, but there are many small steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint. A great way to start transitioning into making better choices is to evaluate the stores and brands you already buy things from. Websites like Rank a Brand and Good Guide provide an analysis of a company’s practices, environmental impact, and integrity toward their workers. It is easy to look at different companies and have an idea of the harm they are doing. The difficult part is actually cutting out unethical brands. The best way to encourage yourself to make sustainable decisions is to get informed about the widespread impact of these companies. A baseline documentary to get started with is “The True Cost” on Netflix. It gives an in-depth overview of the fast fashion industry and what that means for its factory workers and environment. The shocking stories and images immediately mitigate any doubt of the severe consequences of the fashion industry. For example, as executive producer Livia Firth explains on The True Cost website, “The average American now generates 82 pounds of textile waste each year. That adds up to more than 11 million tons of textile waste from the U.S. alone.” Clothes were once seen as something that would last, but are now disposable as trends come and go. Larhea Pepper, an organic cotton farmer and founder of the Textile Exchange adds, “More than 90 percent of that cotton is now genetically modified, using vast amounts of water as well as chemicals. Cotton production is now responsible for 18 percent of worldwide pesticide use and 25 percent of total insecticide use.” Another great way to learn more about sustainable and ethical shopping is through social media. It may seem counterintuitive to follow celebrities and influencers that post product promotion when you’re trying to be a more conscious consumer. Yet following accounts that encourage living sustainably can give good insight and recommendations for smaller brands and companies that work ethically. They will help you find new brands and give tips you may not have thought of before. Wear I Live,

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Meghan Hughes, and Kristen Leo are Youtube channels that all keep ethics and sustainability at the focus of their content, while still producing creative and engaging fashion, beauty, and lifestyle videos. A key theme that all eco-friendly fashion bloggers advocate is simply buying less and doing more with what you have. It has recently become popular in the online fashion community to try a capsule wardrobe. The term was actually coined in the 1970s by Susie Faux, the owner of a London boutique called Wardrobe. Faux’s idea of a capsule wardrobe included a collection of essential items of clothing that would not go out of fashion, and therefore could be worn for multiple seasons. The concept is now having a revival with minimalist millennials and beauty vloggers like The Anna Edit and Lucy Moon. Versatile pieces are the key. It is surprising how much you can do with less. Additionally, if your closet has fewer pieces but you love all of them, the feeling of having “nothing to wear” rarely occurs. When cultivating a smaller closet, it is important that each piece is good quality. Brands that abide by ethical practices and are made of sustainable materials are always more expensive. For those who do not have the funds to splurge, The Good Trade has cultivated lists of buying ethical brands on a budget. An even better alternative if these items are too steeply-priced is to opt for second hand and thrift shopping as well as online used clothing stores like Depop. As far as getting rid of old clothes goes, it is crucial to take the extra step to make sure each piece has a home. According to Savers’ 2018 State of Reuse Report, Only 28 percent of people donate used clothing, and a mere 7 percent of people purchase used clothing. Most clothes that are donated do not even make it in a store because of the surplus of donations that are thrown out. Instead of donating, opt to sell on resale apps like Depop or at stores like Plato’s Closet where they pay you for the clothes they want and return the clothes they don’t. The clothes that resale services do not take can be gifted or swapped with a friend to ensure the piece does not go to waste. When making a shift to shopping sustainably and ethically, it’s important to remember that it should not be a chore or a source of anxiety. Make decisions that are within your ability and do not get hung up on being perfectly green 100 percent of the time — that is near impossible, especially on a college budget. However, little adjustments of shopping habits have an impact on the bigger picture of living in a less wasteful and more conscious community.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

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IS IT MEDICATION VS DRUGS, OR JUST DRUGS? Written by: Deanna Wetmore Visuals by: Melanie Spiel

Vicodin: the most common drug prescribed in the U.S. It is usually administered as a narcotic that is used for pain ranging in seriousness from minor to chronic. Heroin: one of the most common opioid drugs used in the U.S. It is associated with addiction and considered dangerous. Vicodin is prescribed by a doctor. Heroin is an illegal drug. The similarities between these drugs are the side effects, which include nausea, dizziness, impaired thinking, and reduction of physical abilities. Most notably, both of these drugs have addictive properties. But when the term “drug addiction” is used, most people think of illegal substances rather than substances that are controlled by medical professionals. Yet more people are using and becoming reliant on opioids that they obtain legally. Before I get too far in this article, I would like to add that drugs are illegal for good reason. Opioids, stimulants, and hallucinogens can cause serious harm to a person when used in excess and/or too often. Opioids such as heroin create an addiction faster and can be considered less controllable and more dangerous when compared to an opiate such as Vicodin. With that said, Vicodin is known to cause addiction along with other prescription drugs. The issue is not about which drug is more dangerous or about making illegal drugs legal. The problem has to do with the concept of medication versus drugs. Vicodin is considered medication because it is prescribed, while illegal drugs are associated with all the dangerous substances known to be highly addictive. The fact is that Vicodin is a type of opiate, just as heroin is an opioid. Referring to Vicodin as medication takes away the connotation of danger. A national survey on drug use and health conducted in 2012 found that 24 million Americans 12 years or older used illegal drugs. Seven million out of those same people were also abusing prescription drugs. This illustrates how people who are addicts are not only addicted to illegal drugs, but to prescription drugs, as well. Prescription drugs are also causing more deaths compared to opioids such as heroin. A survey conducted in 2015 by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention found that over 17,000 deaths were the result of prescription drugs — more than 4,000 deaths more than those caused by heroin. Why are so many people choosing to abuse drugs? Wendell Berry, an American novelist known for his critique on culture, said the following: “People use drugs, legal and illegal, because their lives are intolerably painful or dull. They hate their work and find no rest in their leisure… It should tell us something that in healthy societies drug use is celebrative, convivial, and occasional, whereas among us it is lonely, shameful, and addictive. We need drugs, apparently, because we have lost each other.” I believe that drug abuse continues to be a problem in the U.S. because people are not addressing the cause of addiction, but instead are categorizing drugs as legal or illegal. This does not solve the problem of addiction and, if nothing else, creates a false perception of what is safe and when to use caution.

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PRISON A HEALTH SYSTEMS:EPIDEMIC Written by: Rhiannon Coleman

When individuals think about standards of public health, often the health of prison inmates is not considered. However, the health of prison inmates can point to and often directly affects the health of the public, particularly those communities who are hit the hardest by mass incarceration. The health of people behind bars should be given just as much attention as that of those who live freely — not just because prison health could impact public health, but because they are one and the same. Once these inmates are released from prison, which almost all of them will be after completing their sentences, their health issues will become a matter of public health. The quality of food in prisons is so low that it is not only unpleasant to taste but is severely lacking in nutritional value. According to a report from Prison Voice Washington, which analyzes the standard of food in Washington state prisons, the quality of prison food has steadily decreased. Rather than cooking meals from scratch, a trend of serving processed food that only needs to be heated before consumption has grown as a result of increased industrialization and privatization of the prison system. Upon examination, it was found that food in Washington’s correctional facilities do not meet the minimum requirements for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy and are often full of more than the recommended amount of starches, sugar, and sodium. But this is not the only case of gross negligence in the quality of prison food. According to an article by Prison Policy Initiative, correctional facilities in Michigan and Ohio have been reported to serve “rotten meat,” food “tainted by maggots,” “food pulled from the garbage,” and “food on which rats nibbled.” Prison inmates are already at a higher risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease and hypertension than the general population, and when these inmates are released, the issue of low-quality prison food moves from just an incarcerated issue to a public health issue. As people who are the most at-risk for many chronic diseases, it is particularly important for prisoners to have access to healthcare. However, access to healthcare is extremely limited due to the high co-pays for medical services. Prison healthcare covers the majority of costs for medical services except for a small additional payment. Although this payment only costs around $2 to $5, this can mean almost an entire month’s paycheck for an inmate who only

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makes around 14 to 63 cents an hour. For inmates whose state facilities do not pay them at all for their work, such as in many southern states like Alabama and Mississippi, this can mean relying entirely on deposits from family members, who can pay a flat $100 yearly health service fee. This is currently true of facilities in Texas. And when inmates avoid seeking medical attention for certain diseases, other inmates are also put at risk. According to data released by the Bureau of Justice, suicide is the leading cause of death in local jails where many of the inmates are convicted for low-level offenses. The suicide rate in local jails is higher than in state prisons and in the general population, as stated in an article by Prison Policy Initiative. Many of these deaths occur in the waiting period after being arrested. The Bureau of Justice reported that 40 percent of jail deaths occurred within the first week of their stay, and an article by the Huffington Post reported that 26 percent occurred within the first three days. Suicide rates in jails speak to a larger issue of limited mental health and substance abuse services, which force those with mental health issues to be seen purely as criminals who need to repent, rather than as people in medical need. This is not an incarceration issue; this is a human rights issue. Although there are a multitude of health-related issues within the prison system, there are also a multitude of solutions. For instance, when it comes to improving the quality of food in prisons, there could be an initiative to remove the privatization of food services within prisons and revert to other strategies of meal preparation in which incarcerated people would grow their own food and use natural ingredients or buy from local farmers. As for improving access to health care, the obvious solutions would be to either lower the cost of medical co-pays or pay inmates more for the work they are forced to do. Even the issue of suicide rates in local jails can be helped if better mental health services were offered to inmates upon arrest, the relationship between officer and inmate was analyzed, and if substance abuse was treated as a medical issue rather than a reason to convict. It is clear that there are many accessible and practical solutions to the issues that plague incarcerated people. The challenge lies in proving that the health issue of inmates is not separate from, but rather synonymous with, public health issues.

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BEAUTY

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BEAUTY IS MORE THAN THE BEHOLDER Written by: Jacey Hammond Visuals by: Olivia Acuna

Every working society has different opinions on beauty. Many seem to believe the statement, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” The old saying claims that the one doing the observing determines if something is beautiful or not; however, I think that is just wrong. In regards to beauty, when it comes to your face, body, or personality, the beholder should have no power whatsoever. People have struggled with beauty’s definition for centuries, but recently, with the rise of social media, a clear message is being sent to young girls about beauty expectations. Many young girls today feel the pressure to meet society’s ideal beauty standards because of celebrities, media, and social platforms. Though there are many bodypositive movements that resist society’s beauty standards, it is hard to ignore. In this society, you must either be skinny or have a slim waist and big butt. Fat is not allowed. This stems from people, such as the Kardashians, constantly posting on Instagram, fat shaming in the comments sections, and promoting the rising consumption of beauty products. In fact, since 2016, beauty product sales have raised 6 percent. Media is encouraging young girls 66

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to consider beauty as merely physical. Many young girls believe that, in order to be considered beautiful, they have to change their appearances to meet the popular standards. The Kardashian clan has been highly influential in the last decade. Their influence is tremendous among young girls. And in case their sizable social media accounts weren’t enough, they also have a television show. Kim has her own video game, and Kylie and Kim have their own cosmetic companies. This current generation has, for the most part, grown up with technology and social media. Many argue, though, that youth of today pay too much attention to it. Many claim that this new obsession with posting, checking social media, and recording everything is the reason for the rise in depression cases and self-esteem issues among our youth. A National Institute of Health study showed that those who use social media on a daily basis are more likely to become depressed than those who do not. It states that people who use social media the most are 2.7 times more likely to be depressed than those who do not use it as much. At the center of this is the pressure that young girls feel from society to wear makeup and to be “pretty.” For years, women have dealt with receiving less opportunity if they weren’t “attractive,” being made fun of because they weren’t “cute,” and being rejected because they “weren’t hot enough.” I’m sure any woman reading this would be able to think of a time where she felt lesser than because she did not feel as though she fit the typical standard for American

beauty. We shouldn’t stand for it anymore. Makeup should be a choice, not a requirement. Many influential women have made the decision to not participate in wearing makeup. Alicia Keys and Shailene Woodley are both celebrities who have opted to not wear makeup to red-carpet events; Keys stopped all together. She explained, “Every time I left the house, I would be worried if I didn’t put on makeup: What if someone wanted a picture? What if they POSTED it? These were the insecure, superficial, but honest thoughts I was thinking. And all of it, one way or another, was based too much on what other people thought of me.” Keys inspires other women to do the same. Not wearing makeup has many benefits. Your skin may clear up because there aren’t as many oils living on your face every day; therefore, you may also experience less acne. Additionally, not wearing makeup helps eliminate the amount of time it would normally take you to get ready for your day, and helps moisturize your skin. The decision to refrain from wearing makeup is considered rebellious and taboo, but really, wearing makeup should be the individual’s choice! Beauty comes from the person who radiates it. Beauty is not defined by old cultural practices and judgement from others. It is determined by the individual in question. If wearing makeup makes you feel beautiful, you should wear it. If not wearing it makes you feel beautiful, then you shouldn’t! Individuals should have the power to determine how they feel about themselves and their beauty, not their beholders.

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ONE BRA AT A TIME Written by: Meredith Nash Visuals by: Madison DeCory

In 2012, the campaign Free the Nipple was created during the production of a 2014 film of the same name. The film argues for the legality and cultural acceptance of baring one’s chest in public regardless of gender or sex, and it contends that because men can take part in this action, it should not be considered sexual or indecent for women. While women are expected to wear pushup bras and full coverage undergarments to even the most casual events, men are really only socialized to button up indoors. The women who don’t follow these standard “rules” are deemed less feminine or even extremist, liberal, man-hating lesbians. Free the Nipple doesn’t just apply to those not wanting to wear a underwire bra, but also to mothers of young children who need to breastfeed. Women who simply need to feed their children are not only sexualized, but also viewed as both scandalous and improper (among the nicer words). Free the Nipple doesn’t just fall under one category: The film attempts to dismantle unfair treatment of female-bodied people everywhere. This means being able to post topless photos, like men, on social media without being

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flagged. This means women being able to make the choice for themselves as to whether they want to wear a bra or not — to make the choice for their body that is for not for anyone else. Not to mention, this campaign is not just for 20-year-olds like me who don’t want to wear a bra (even though that is completely valid). It’s more than wanting everything men have, more than wanting to walk around naked, burning bras. This is bigger than any individual and will affect everyone with breasts. This affects breast cancer survivors, plus-size people who can’t find the right-fitting bra, disabled individuals, breastfeeding mothers, those with body dysphoria, and people who simply cannot afford the price of a good bra. In eighth grade, I was the last one of my friends to get my period, start wearing a bra, and all the other remaining steps of puberty. I didn’t wear a bra for years because I felt like a fraud. While my friends were sporting C-cup pushup bras, I had a stack of camisoles overflowing in my dresser drawer. The worst was when someone would point out the

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obvious “you’re nipping.” Without a bra and with only the thin layer of fabric between my chest and the outside world, it was bound to happen. From a young age I was socialized, taught, and forced to believe nipples were taboo. They were not something to be discussed, seen, or normalized. They were sexual, private, and were meant to be invisible. It didn’t matter if they were a beautiful source of nourishment for a child, an incredible example of how amazing the human body is. I was horrifyingly embarrassed. In my freshman year of college, I hit the line between regular and plus-size. I had a large ribcage, breasts, and shoulders. I was also prescribed numerous medications that cause heartburn, a condition that is only exacerbated by wearing tight clothes: meaning bras. I would put myself through the daily torture of wearing a wired bra. I could not afford a larger or nicer one because plus-size bras tend to be more expensive. And even if I did buy a new bra, there was no telling if it would stop the constant pain I was having in my chest. By my junior year I had completely sworn off bras and wore only lace bralettes, sports bras, and the best: no

bras. My acid reflux and heartburn had almost completely stopped, and I felt proud about making that decision for my body. The transition was hard. I was raised to be a polite young woman, one who never showed her nipples, unlike her male brother. And the only difference between the two of us was a couple pounds of fat in our chests. Free the Nipple is about having the choice, not about forcing all female-bodied people to throw away their bras. I understand not everyone will agree with me, but just because you don’t understand something doesn’t mean you can’t respect it. Make it a viable choice, and stop shaming and sexualizing bodies that aren’t your own. Free the nipple, or don’t, but acknowledge those who do.

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PRETTY BUT PAINFUL Written by: Alissan Speidel Visuals by: Olivia Acuna

Playing around with makeup and learning to use it can be fun, but at what cost? Over a million animals are killed each year in order to test cosmetics. Animal testing is conducted by companies to test products in order to experiment with the effects it may have on humans. These tests can leave lasting health issues, distress, pain, and even death to the animals being tested on. Popular makeup brands guilty of animal testing include Benefit, Mary Kay, NARS, Avon, Clinique, and many more. These large industries have a big stake in the makeup industry, but are still supported by consumers. Most individuals are not aware of which makeup organizations use animal testing because most companies try to hide the fact that they conduct animal testing to avoid controversy.

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In America, animal testing is not as popular as it is in other countries. Many companies test their products in China, where it is legal and respected. Companies tend to conduct animal testing because they believe they will increase the number of products that they offer and have a cheaper way to test new products quickly. With the American beauty industry trying to shift towards clean, cruelty-free products, there are brands that strongly oppose animal testing. In order to help create a safer world for our furry friends, we can turn to alternative makeup options such as Anastasia Beverly Hills, Glossier, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Milk Makeup, Urban Decay, Too Faced, Tarte, bareMinerals, and more. Many of these cruelty-free companies, such as Milk Makeup, don’t sell

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in countries where animal testing is required. While this lowers their market clients, their dedication to cruelty-free makeup is extremely apparent. Instead of conducting animal testing, there are a few other ways to test products before companies put them up for sale. Companies have the opportunity to test their products on human cells and tissues. Putting human cells and tissues to the test not only pulls us away from animal abuse, but it also allows us to have a more accurate idea of how we will react to the products. In order to test your makeup and products to see if they are cruelty-free, you can search for the PETA bunny logo on the label. Some companies make false claims of being cruelty-free, so be sure to visit this Cruetly Free Kitty to check your products: We need to put a stop to animal testing and animal cruel-

ty. To continue fighting against animal testing, you can learn more about animal abuse from peta.org. Animals should not have to suffer at the expensive of our consumerist needs and cosmetic desires. There is a way to find a middle ground of sustaining both needs and desires without hurting animals in the process.

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