IMARA Magazine Fall 2010 Issue

IMARA

STRONGER THAN A DIAMOND AND JUST AS PRECIOUS

December 2010

CORNELL ARTISTS SPOTLIGHT featuring: Baraka Kwa Wimbo

DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN

am i acting black enough for you?

ONLINE SHOPPING

tired of the same old wardrobe? maybe we can help!

IMARA Magazine Co- Editor-in-Chiefs

DEBORAH JACK ROSALIND USHER Managing Editor Ujijji Davis Co- Creative Director Iffie Ikem Co- Creative Director Marie Fleury Director of Finance Angelique Boyer Director of Publicity Chineze Ebo

STAFF WRITERS Ashley Black Matilda Ceesay Chandeerah Davis Ujijji Davis Chineze Ebo Iffie Ikem Kimberly Kerr Jillian Lyles Kafi Mavour Jaudia Quinn Jasmine Wade LAYOUT EDITORS Angelique Boyer Ujijji Davis Marie Fleury Iffie Ikem Jillian Lyles Malik Mack Rosalind Usher PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART Ujijji Davis Jillian Lyles Kimberly Kerr

www.imaramagazine.wordpress.com 2 | Imara Magazine

Editor’s Note

we are imara

This issue, we present to our public the theme of music and its importance in the community. Helping to put together this magazine has allowed me to see for myself the significance of music in my own life. In this stressful environment of school and high achievement, music has personally helped me to relax…if at least for a few minutes. Listening and loving genres from gospel to R&B to soul, each song encourages me to keep moving forward despite the many obstacles in my path. Each song allows me to relate to a particular subject and feel a deeper connection with the artist. From the moving lyrics to the flowing beats to even the character of the artist, music is such a pervasive aspect of my life….of everyone’s life. From dancing to singing to humming, we each respond to music in different ways, allowing us to express ourselves through the song.

Music is shown to be therapeutic, helping us to get through a rough time in our lives such as grief or disappointment. Music is nostalgic, bringing us back to happier memories or a carefree moment in the past. Music can cause revolutions by criticizing society and asking for a change. But most of all, music is simply everywhere. Thus, I hope you all love and read through this issue thoroughly, thinking how music also affects your life.

And allow music to de-stress you during the upcoming last days of classes and the hellish days of finals. Use music to your own advantage! In the words of Maya Angelou, “Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.”

Deborah

Deborah Jack Co-Editor-in-Chief December 2010 | 3

Table of Contents

M u sic p

g 5 Spirit of Mu pg 11 Cornell sic pg 20 Up-and Artists Spotlight pg 26 Hottie -coming Artist: Nneka Tottie

M e n tal Health p

g 6 Healthy and pg 10 Diary o Happy fa

Features

Mad Blac

pg 8 161 Thing pg 19 Poetry s to Do pg 24 Diva S Corner pg 27 Campu peaks... s Resour

Spotlights

ces

pg 7 Senior Sp pg 18 Senior Sotlight: Asa Craig pg 21 Eye Ca potlight: Ashley Jeanlus ndy

Fp ashion

g 17 Online Sh pg 22 Three P opping pg 9 Great Bla ieees for Four Shapes ck Wo men Who

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The Spirit of Music | Music

The Spirit of Music For most people, music and spirituality are not topics that are usually put together. Many would prefer to avoid thinking about the type of music they listen to in conjunction with their spirituality. Good thing I am neither most nor many.

In my opinion, music and spirituality are inherently connected.

The spirit is the very essence of you: everything that you believe in, all of your feelings, all of your emotions, any and everything about you that is not physical. It is built up from your thoughts and your perceptions; the spirit consists of your morals, your conscience. It is, in large part, your personality. It is the connection of kindred spirits that causes the chills or electricity that you feel when your eyes connect with another person from across the room. It is a person’s negative spirit that gives you a “bad vibe” when you first meet or talk. It is this spirit that determines how we interact with others and effects how we build our relationships. Our spirit determines how we act and respond; how we handle situations and the way we carry ourselves; what we feel is acceptable and intolerable. The ability to connect to the essence that is the spirit, to truly tap into your feelings and beliefs and be able to live them in everyday life is what we call “spiritual”.

Spirituality is the fact of being spiritual, the dedication to have a consistent connection with the spirit. Due to the fact that spirituality is so pure and abstract, it is often connected to, and even more often confused with religion and being religious. The “religion” consists of disciplines, ordinances, rules, and traditions equated with whatever it is that you are (or are not) worshipping.

Spirituality is the emotion and passion that you put into the worship; what you believe and take to heart and how you feel when you are carrying out the religious practices. It is usually ideal that when studying or participating in a religion you are both religious and spiritual, knowing the ordinances and having a passion and desire to live that which you have learned. For instance, in Christianity, it would be ideal that you believe and have faith in Jesus while knowing His teachings and how to show that faith and belief. ite song, consider why you like it is your favorite.

But, now that I have given you the run down on Spirituality, what in H, E, double hockeysticks does it have to do with music?

Let me break it down for you.

Music is consistently described as an outlet—a way to be honest and express emotions that you may not be able o accurately communicate otherwise. The music we listen to and the music we create, no matter what form, is an expression, consciously or unconsciously, of how we feel and what we believe. I know most of us say, “Oh, I’m only listening to _____ because I like the way it sounds,” but even that is an expression. The beats or the harmony stirs something in you, in your spirit. And that’s how the two are connected. Music is a medium, just like painting or other forms of art, to share your spirituality; to make known that which you feel inside.

And even if you did not create it, more often than not you can find a song that will touch you because the writer was feeling the same things as you, whether you want to have those sentiments or not.

So, the next time you listen to your favor

What does it say about your spirit?

--Ashley Black

December 2010 | 5

Healthy & Happy: Decrease that Cornell Stress!

By: Chineze Ebo

It’s easy to start to feel depressed and disheartened when piles of exams, papers, and problem sets drown our everyday lives.

Cornell is a difficult and demanding university, and sometimes we lose sight of the benefits of our hard work. The results: a saddened attitude and dampened mental health state. So what do you do to try and pick yourself up? Here’s a list of things that many Cornell students have found helpful to improve their mental health state and decrease their stress while on campus: 1. Hang out with friends: While at school, making friends and creating strong ties with people is essential.

Friends form a strong support network for you, so that when you are going through a rough patch, they’ll be able to help you overcome it. Friends also have the ability to cheer you up when you’re down, and offer a helping hand.

Spending quality time with close friends is a surefire way of relieving stress.

2. Listening to music: Listening to your favorite tunes is always a great way to release some stress. You can choose songs that go along with your mood, or songs that make you smile.

If a song has a particular meaning to you (perhaps a song that reminds you of a happy time), it can help to promote positive mental images and thus better your mood.

movie: We ALL have our favorite shows and movies, and a nice way to take a break from the hectic school schedule is to catch up on them! Gossip girl? Glee? Grey’s anatomy? All these yummy shows are calling your name during the week and are easily the best way to unwind! Who doesn’t love a little drama or some amazing vocals?

5. Going out to a social event: Socializing helps you both meet new people and release some built up stress. Whether it’s out to a party, movie, or even an organization’s meeting, getting out and about can do wonders for your stress level!

6. Communicating with family and friends back home: It’s very easy to get trapped in the infamous “Cornell Bubble”; that is, forget about things going on in the outside world. Sometimes, simple communication with loved ones back home can work wonders for your mood. Having a conversation with a friend from home, or venting to your parents can help to shed away unwanted stress.

3. Reading for leisure: With all the reading that Cornell gives its students, some of us don’t find the time to sit down and read a book simply for pleasure. A nice way to chill out and relax is to grab a great page-turner, cuddle up in bed, and read away! After 7. Exercising: Working out your stress all, reading about logarithms and folic is also a good way to promote a healthy acid isn’t cute. mental state. You could take a jog, do yoga, or meditate, all of which help to 4. Watching a favorite TV show or ease your mind and body.

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8. Leaving campus/Roadtripping: Sometimes, the best way to deal with stress is to get away from its source!

Taking a trip away from campus may help to elevate your mood and release all negative energy…AND you can get away from the coldness of Ithaca!

9. Shopping: This is self explanatory; shopping = GREAT. That’s probably the easiest equation I’ve ever seen while at Cornell.

10. BREATHING: This might seem trivial, but breathing is always the first step to relax your body. Running around all day trying to hand in assignments and meet with professors can take a toll on your body, and thus your mental functioning. It’s important to give yourself time to just sit down, calm your nerves, and BREATHE. It’s no doubt that Cornell and its workload can be a lot; that’s the result of attending such a prestigious university. Nonetheless, it’s important that you learn the many ways to reduce your stress level & strengthen your mental health! By doing this, I’m sure that you will enjoy your Cornell career much more while promoting your physical, emotional, and mental growth.

Senior Spotlight: Asa | Spotlights

Senior Spotlight Future Plans: “Eventually, I hope to attend graduate school, pursuing a dual-degree in both Masters of Public Administration and Law. However, I intend to gain some experience prior to applying and attending graduate school. No idea exactly what I will be doing next year, but I am exploring my options.”

Asa Craig

Birthday: August 4th, 1989 Sign: Leo Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania (Originally from Brooklyn, NY) Major: Government and Africana Studies Organizations: - Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Cornell University Board of Trustees - Cornell University Glee Club - Cornell University Student Assembly - Cornell Senior Class Campaign One thing you will miss: “This Beautiful Campus”

Key to Success: “My success at Cornell has come from meeting many individuals from different communities. I have worked hard in classes to solidify academic success, yes, but overall success in my opinion was a result of my getting involved on campus” Advice to underclassmen: “Get involved! Many of my most memorable experiences have not come from my academic pursuits, but rather from the organizations in which I am involved.

Also, find a community on campus, but then challenge yourself to find a completely different community after that. I’ve learned so much from being in different environments, and that has complemented my experience at this diverse university.”

How do you have fun on campus?

Hanging out in Collegetown!

December 2010 | 7

Features | 161 Things

161

Things Every Woman of Color Should Do at Cornell

by Chandeerah Davis

Phot o cou

rtesy

of Jil

lian L yles

So, I was asked to compose a list of things Women of Color should do in their time at Cornell University. Everyone’s read the list of 161 Things Every Cornellian Should Do, but almost no one is going to do all of those things. I mean it’s a nice list, but some of the suggestions are a little outlandish. Are the majority of us ever going to “Get drunk at a professor’s house” or “Illegally slide down Libe Slope on a tray from Okenshield’s”? Isn’t Okenshields tray-less now?

Nevertheless I embarked upon my own list, and in doing research, ended up reading list after list. Cornellians have come up with every thing from “14 Things NOT to Do at Cornell”, and “35 Things Cornellians Should Do INSTEAD of the Boring 161.”

In true IMARA style, we’re calling our list “161 Things Every Woman of Color Should Do at Cornell!” Here you’ll find the first 20.

Trust me there’s more to come, and they will get better and better as I search for meaningful, fun, and necessary things we should all be taking part in as such a diverse group of amazing women here on the Hill. Enjoy!

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161 Things | Features

1

Reach out to Black Women’s Support Network, Les Femmes De Substance, Cornell Caribbean Students Association or some other multicultural student organization that can serve as a support network for you.

2 | Keep close friends close, ditch toxic friends, and be the first to apologize.

3 | Live in Ujamaa, Latino Living Center, Akwe:kon, Wari House, or one of the other multi-cultural program residence houses for at least one year. You never know how much you’re missing until you give them a try!

4 | Start your own “Sister Circle”--get a group of your closest friends together in one place once a month for food, drinks, and to VENT! Attend every Greek party sponsored by one of the amazing multicultural sororities and fraternities of the Multi-Cultural Greek Letter Council on campus!

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6 | Eat authentic Cuban-Style Rice and Beans with plantains at the Ithaca Farmer’s Market!

7 | First FIND A MENTOR…Then…Be a mentor! Many organizations offer a chance to mentor a young woman very much like yourself; take advantage of the opportunity!

8 | Spread the word about the new Beauty Supply Store at the Ithaca Mall…the only way we’re gonna keep it is to USE it ladies!

9 | Take a course like AMST 4530 - Twentieth Century Women Writers of Color.

10 | Date outside your “type”!

11 | Seek out programs like LSAMP: Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP), an undergraduate research scholars program that aims to increase the number of under-represented minority students earning doctorates in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

12

Take a ladies only “roadtrip” somewhere far away from Ithaca!

13 | Help out CU-IMAGE and host a prospective student of color! Convince more dynamic women of color to enroll at Cornell!

14 | Check out the Congo Square Market at Southside Community Center: named for the famous Congo Square in New Orleans, this market honors African-American history.

15 | Make sure you become well acquainted with OMEA! They are an invaluable resource!

16 | Bond with your sisters at the Les Femmes De Substance Retreat!

17 | Support local small businesses. Read: Get your hair done in someone’s dorm room!

Challenge yourself to attend as many Ujamaa Residential Hall UNITY HOUR’s as you can! Take the opportunity to discuss and share ideas about issues that affect us ALL!

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19 | Attend at least one social event at Westbourne Apartments!

20 | Join CSTEP/CPOP and get support for all of your academic endeavors! Want to go to grad school or med school? They are here to help you get there!

To be Continued…

When it’s all said and done we’ll each have our own unique story to tell when we leave Cornell, especially because we define what diversity here really means. The truth is there are a wealth of “Things To Do” at Cornell but our memories will depend on the ways we choose to engage, and the experiences WE create.

December 2010 | 9

Diary of A MAD Black Woman By: Kimberly Kerr

Ever since middle school, I knew I was different. No, I didn’t have an unhealthy obsession with something obscure, and no I wasn’t a social outcast whom no one understood. I was just…different…from my peers, my African American peers in particular.

It didn’t occur to me how different I was until the tenth grade, when a friend called me an OREO after I professed my undying love for Michael Buble music. For those of you who are not familiar with the term, an OREO is a label for a black person who “acts white” [See Carlton]..After my friend explained this to me, I became more aware of my particular mannerisms and interests and noticed that I did not have much in common with (the few) black friends I had. Later on, they would call me an OREO because of my love for swing dancing and musicals, my interest in the Hills (minor interest, I swear) and my manner of speech. Apparently I was white on the inside because I liked to read, too.

Being called an OREO never really bothered me much. In fact, I even considered it to be a compliment.

As twisted as it sounds, I felt more accepted by my closer friends, who were mostly white and Hispanic.

Knowing that they knew I wasn’t like the other black kids at school gave me peace of mind. I wasn’t threatening or loud like the black woman stereotype illustrates and I wanted people to recognize how far I was from that stereotype.

It wasn’t until I had multiple conversations with friends who had incurred the same label as me that I began to realize how insulting the term OREO is to the African American community. To suggest that someone is intrinsically white because they are well spoken, or prefer classical music to rap is an insult to the black community. It implies that only white individuals have certain interests or speak in an educated manner. There is something very wrong with this. I’m not pushing any Black Power propaganda, but the use of the word OREO in this racial context implies that African Americans who are bookworms or listen to classical music or speak in an educated manner are bizarre, because those are WHITE (more ‘refined’) attributes. So because I blast Michael Buble from my radio instead of Soulja Boy, I’m on the whiter side of the spectrum. Reversely, a white person who listens to and spits gangster rap, wears his pants below his butt cheeks and is fluent in street slang “acts black”. In our society, it seems as though the Caucasian community have a claim on certain (mostly positive) attributes while African American’s have a claim on more negatively associated attributes. Of course, this is no big revelation. Everyone is aware of the black/ white stereotypes that circulate in the media and real life. But what is remarkable is how much of a slur the term OREO really is. It’s an underhanded way of enforcing these stereotypes. The same goes for slurs such as “coconut” or “twinkie”, which refer to Hispanics and Asians respectively who “act white”. I now take issue with these kinds of labels because it is simply wrong, not to mention ridiculous. It’s wrong for us to take these stereotypes so far as to disrespect someone’s ethnic identity by labeling them as a different ethnicity, whether they receive it as a compliment or not. In the end, these labels strengthen stereotypes, promote ignorance, and are offensive to the race in question.

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Artists at Cornell | Music

Artists

Join us as IMARA gets up close and personal with some of Cornell’s hidden talents. Cornell is home to singers, rappers, producers, and songwriters from all over the country. Read our exclusive interviews with these up and coming stars.

At Cornell

December 2010 | 11

Music | Artists at Cornell IM: What genre would you say you fit into?

JJ:I’ve always hated the idea of genres because of their capacity to limit musical expression, as well as potential fan exposure. That being said I have no choice but to fall into some sort of weird and witty hip-hop genre. My genre is a small one that places emphasis on creativity, lyrics, and staying true to one’s self. “Stay True” is actually a song on my latest EP entitled ‘Fall Braker’….check it out!

IM:Do you write your own music? If so, what is your lyrical inspiration?

JJ:I write everything. To me writing is not something I have to be inspired to do.

Writing is as normal to me as breathing. I think of rhymes in the shower and write hooks on the toilet. A good instrumental will actually tempt me to neglect all responsibilities and write the day away. Writing, to me, does not translate to making songs and rapping though. Writing helps me clear up my thoughts and express them how my mind views them.

Joe Kleanest Jackson Hip-Hop joekleanest.bandcamp.com

IM:Who is your musical inspiration and why?

JJ: I apologize for not having a clear and defined answer to this question. I can’t think of a single thing. When I hear a hot sounding beat, that inspires me like nothing else.

People who love hip-hop inspire me. I am not talking soulja-roscoe-big meech type rap. I am speaking of def poetry-talib kweli-‘take me to another place’-type music.

That music that gives you butterflies after the 4th bar, 1st verse. That hip hop that makes you remember why you first started rapping. The music that gives you the ‘bubbly-gutz’ like its Christmas Eve and your mama lets you open a present. This is the feel that drives me and this is the feel I try to put into my music.

IM: When did you start creating your music?

KR: I’ve been rapping book reports since middle school, that’s how it kind of started.

I’ve always had a love for words, how you can flex them in so many ways. Never the best essay writer, but I can tell you exactly what’s on my mind through a song.

IM: Are involved with musical groups on campus?

KR:Yes! I just helped rejuvenate a lyricists club with fellow rapper Dylan Owen called Spoken Ink! Besides that I’ve been trying to get my hands on beats from local producers but they’re hard to come by. The club Muse on campus also gives members an opportunity to teach music, so I’m looking into that. I’m a transfer student from Boston University, and last year I taught this little 12 year old dude some harmonica and Saxophone. He was the man, I’m trying to find my musical niche here.

IM: Who is your musical inspiration and why?

KR: To be honest, my older brother. He’s not necessarily a rapper, but I think a lot of guys whether they admit it or not look up to their older brothers and desire their respect.

Wren, my older brother, happens to be the MAN, and no compliments hit closer to home than his. He also happens to be a musical guy so he can give me tips and pointers.

One aspect though that I appreciate is just how real he is with me. He holds no punches.

As an artist that is hard to find.

IM:If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would you want to andwho would you perform with?

KR: Madison Square Garden! As cliche as that is...well...it’s Madison Square Garden!

And do they have to be alive? Hahaha I’d love to perform with Biggie if he were still alive, just because of his energy and everything I could learn from him. If they have to be alive, probably Eminem just because he’s so passionate about his craft and that would be a wild experience.

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Kia Rogers Hip-Hop Electronica

Artists at Cornell | Music

IM:What artists do you think you match the best in terms of your musical style?

MM:Musically I feel as though you can hear a lot of different artist in my musical style. I am a student of music and I take from my teachers. I make music that can sound relatively close to something Kanye West would produce and the next song you hear of mines could sound like something prince could have composed. It’s that ability to switch lanes that I think makes me so unique.

IM: If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would you want to and who would you perform with?

MM: I would want to perform at Radio City Music Hall and too be honest I’d want to perform with a band, some background singers, and ME. I would be too star struck to perform with any artist I look up too and I would really just want to be able to convey my message on stage with no assistance from already established artists.

Malik Major Hip-Hop

IM:Whose your musical inspiration and why?

MM: I’m inspired by a large number of artists. My inspiration comes from: Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, The Carps, Temposhark, Blaqstarr, Prince, Ne-Yo, Lauryn Hill, Janelle Monae, Outkast, Just Blaze, 9th Wonder, Pete Rock, Gym Class Heroes etc. Way too many to name. I don’t know I just love music and these artists inspire me with their sound, uniqueness, and style.

IM: At what age did you start singing?

MA:I don’t remember, but I’m sure it was as soon as my mother pushed her last push.

IM: Are you part of any musical organizations on campus?

MA: Why, yes I am! I am the Conductor of Chosen Generation Gospel Choir and the president of Baraka Kwa Wimbo Gospel A Capella Ensemble. Off campus, I am a member of Calvary Baptist’s Praise Team, Joyful Noise Choir, and the Mass Choir.

Mavis Bortey-Fio Gospel, Soul

IM:What artists do you think you match the best in terms of your musical style?

MA:Mr. Marvin Gaye and Mr. Al Green, ‘cause we all sing with that same passion, that same yearning for those who listen to feel what we feel. See, when we go high, when we sing low, we’re not showing off, no, that’s just what it takes to bring the song to life, and for you to respect that life’s presence.

IM: If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would you want to and who would you perform with?

KA: Haha I would want to perform on CNN or something, so white people could see the aesthetic beauty of black music. It ain’t just nonsense! Since I’m the producer, DJ, whatever, I’d want to perform with live band, the Roots or something. I love how they bring music to life.

K.C. NuBlack Aharanwa Hip-Hop

IM: Who would you recommend to listen to?

KA:Little Brother, beats & rhymes at its finest. John Mayer, amazing songwriter, one of the bests of our generation. Erykah Badu is the most soulful woman on earth, and she has a great ear for what just sounds good. Last but not least, Curren$y, he makes music that HE would want to listen to, and music sounds better when you can feel it’s honesty. I could go on for days! Holla at me!

IM: Are you part of any musical organizations on campus?

KA: Nope not formally. I do feel like the hip-hop community on this campus is going to come together in a big way this year though. I have produced for Joe Kleanest and Chance Fischer and I hope to do the same for any other rappers who want a NuBlack beat.

December 2010 | 13

Music | Artist at Cornell

IM:Whose your musical inspiration and why?

ES:It is impossible to name one person who is my musical inspiration. I guess that my love for Jazz and Brazilian music all started with Stan Getz, and João and Astrud Gilberto (you know...

The Girl For Ipanema...). Recently I have found myself most inspired by Derek Trucks. Last year I went to a concert of his and it really changed my life. Aside from being an amazing guitarist, he also seems really humble and aware of the rest of the world.

IM: Where do you see yourself in 10 years, in terms of music?

ES:This is a really big question! I know that no matter what I will always play music. I really think that music can be used to do so much good, and one of my goals is to find a way to make this a part of what I do. Some days I think that I want to be a doctor, other days I want to be a musician, ultimately I hope that I will be able to do both. I know that the connections between health and music are really important, and I want to find ways to use them.

IM:Are you part of any musical organizations on campus?

ES:Yeah, I’m in Jazz Voices, the only jazz chorus at Cornell, and it is super awesome and everybody should join or come see us perform! This semester I also joined Deixa Sambar, the Brazilian samba ensemble, and I am playing saxophone and singing in a Jazz Combo.

Elena Siani Jazz, Brazilian Funk

IM:Recommend an artist/song our readers should listen to?

ES:Esperanza Spalding!!

IM: Where do you see yourself in 10 years, in terms of music?

AP: In terms of where I see myself in 10 years, I am actually not sure. I want to say that I’ll be wherever God wants me to be, and that He will put me in the right places for me to share my talent and gift of music, whether that be on a small scale or a large scale.

Amara Pinnock R&B

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IM: Recommend an artist/song to listen to?

AP: “Hideaway” by Tessanne Chin. Tessanne Chin is a Jamaican singer who is of Chinese, White, Cherokee Indian and African heritage. She has a powerhouse voice and has opened for Gladys Knight, Boys II Men, and Patti Labelle, among others. Her music is a mix of reggae, rock and dancehall. Her genre is known as “reggae-fusion” and its phenomenal because she is one of the few artists who can mix these genres successfully. This song “Hideaway” is a perfect example of this mix and is a great song to listen to. In the bridge of the song, she speaks patois with a rock-inspired guitar melody behind her singing and the result is awesome. Enjoy!

IM: What genre of music do you fit into?

AP: I would say I fit very cozily in the R&B and gospel genre. I’ve sung both R&B and gospel in the past and I sing these two genres most often. Recently I’ve dabbled into the R&B/pop genre, kind of along the lines of Rihanna’s music, and I think its cool, but I am a real R&B fan.

Artist at Cornell | Music IM:What artists do you think you match the best in terms of your musical style?

CF:This seems like one of those questions where a person’s ego takes over haha. I’d say I’m like if Prince, Plato, Oscar Wilde, Quincy Jones, and Kanye West got together in a room to make a super musician.

IM:Whose your musical inspiration and why?

CF:Probably George Clinton and right after that OutKast. They make really good music that is really deep and unique to their personalities. They blend a sort of commercialism with very profound lyricism and creating a feeling with their songs. Even if you missed the subject matter, you felt it.

It’s like the rebirth of classical with words.

Chance Fischer Hip-Hop

IM:If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would you want to and who would you perform with?

CF: I would want to perform at either the Sydney Opera House or set up a private show at The Louvre. I’d like to perform with Tom Vek, Amerie, OutKast, Chin Chin, Savion Glover, The London Symphony Orchestra, and Sia. Not all at the same time, but for different sets haha.

IM:What genre would you say you fit into?

OA:I think I play the type of music I’m inspired by, so everything! Jazz, R&B, classical, old school joints, gospel, they are all fair game for the music I love.

IM: At what age did you start singing/rapping/etc?

OA:I started singing in the shower when I was 7, but I started playing piano and writing music my freshman year of college. It’s funny I don’t really consider myself a musician, just someone who tries to express things in song that I can’t say with my own words.

IM:What artists do you think you match the best in terms of your musical style?

OA: I’ve listened to a lot of R&B and Neo soul artists like John legend, Dwele, Eric Roberson, and Avant and have taken on pieces of their sound by default.

IM: Do you write your own music?

OA:I do write my own music, and my inspiration is often life experience. Relationship woes, things that I’m feeling, I’ve learned, and things that I’ve shared with people close to me. Sometimes it’s just the joy of making music too.

Obi Asama Jazz, Soul

IM: At what age did you start singing/rapping/etc?

DO: I have been rap battling and freestyling since middle school—age thirteen, I suppose. However, I started writing rap songs when I was a freshman in high school, and proceeded to release two EPs in the following two years. Semi-recently, over the past year and a half, I have begun to take rapping seriously, performing nearly every weekend and releasing my debut full-length album, now available on iTunes, CDBaby, Amazon, and in hardcopies.

IM:Whose your musical inspiration and why?

DO:My musical inspiration draws from not only rap music, but any artist who puts passion into his or her work. Some favorites coming to mind are Bon Iver, Bright Eyes, and Damien Rice.

Dylan Owen Hip-Hop, Indie

IM:Do you write your own music? If so, what is your lyrical inspiration?

DO: Yes, I write and perform all of my own lyrics and compose some melodies that producers help transpose into my beats. My lyrical inspiration comes from my relationships/interaction with people, my impossible aspirations, and my age’s experiences, which are still (and will hopefully always) be developing.

IM: If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would you want to and who would you perform with?

DO:I would want to perform at a University full of students anticipating our set, and I would be performing with my musical idols, such as rapper Macklemore and producer Ryan Lewis.

December 2010 | 15

Music | Artists at Cornell

Interview with Baraka Kwa Wimbo IM:What is the name of the group and its significance?

BKW:Baraka Kwa Wimbo means “Blessings Through Song” in Swahili.

IM:When did the group begin?

BKW:Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of documentation from the past. However, we gather it was founded anywhere between 1988 and 1992. We’re pretty old!

IM:How many people are in the group (and their names) BKW:We currently have ten members. They are Mavis Bortey-fio, Chidinma Okafor, Mayowa Dayo, Kayla Richards, Sheretta Noel, Janet Nwaukoni, Revina Moore, Cheryl Whilby, Desirree Pizarro, and Lauren Elliott.

IM:What type of music does Baraka Kwa Wimbo sing?

BKW:We sing music with a positive and religious purpose. So, that means anything from Gospel to R&B to Pop to Jazz. You name it, we sing! Just as long as it glorifies God! IM:Who is your audience?

BKW:Because our message is universal, our audience is universal. And we hope this message reaches the masses!

IM:What are your goals for the organization as a whole on campus?

BKW:We hope to reach more audiences on campus, add more songs to our repertoire, and show the Cornell community what true sisterhood and harmony look like.

IM:What is the group’s inspiration?

BKW:We are inspired by a God who loves us, who is forgiving, kind, mighty and awesome! We are inspired by each other, never expecting nothing short of the best from our sisters. Lastly, we are inspired by the Baraka sisters who have come before us: the legacy they left behind, the bar they set, are the things that drive us to be better.

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e n i l n O d e e Going to N ? s u o m y n o n Shopper’s A

A

s young, intelligent, beautiful black Cornellian women, we still want to stay trendy…right? Despite the lack of malls and stores, there are many ways we can compensate and be able to walk around our beautiful campus rocking the latest trends. Of course online shopping is an appealing option, but since you don’t have a dressing room with the item to try it on, you must have a good idea of styles and cuts in relation to your body type. It’s a pain, but sizes do change with differently cut garments. Do not be afraid to go up a size. Sacrificing a good fit just for a smaller number on the tag is never a good idea. Tailoring down an item to fit you perfectly is probably not a reality on campus, but when you go home for breaks spending a little extra on a tailor canturn your garments into better fitting pieces.

With online shopping, if you sign up to receive emails from whatever stores you shop at the most, you will see that you end up saving a lot of money because you get alerts about special sales and receive promo codes that lower your price and sometimes even give you free shipping! Signing up for these emails is absolutely free and youcan only benefit. Just recently I received an email from Charlotte Russe alerting me of a Happy Hour sale that was happening only between an hours period one day only. Denim leggings for only $10 each! I jumped on it and got two pairs of denim leggings for $20 when originally they were $24.50 each, and went back to the original price after the Happy Hour sale. It doesn’t get much better than that! On a tight broke college student budget, these insider emails can allow anyone to keep up with fashion. Shopping online also allows us the chance to see what people outside of Ithaca are wearing. We are in the same state as the fashion capital of the Universe, New York City, but it seems as though we are galaxies away. Since we are not right on the fashion scene and do not see much TV or look at many magazines, it is

not easy for us to know what to buy to keep up with the rest of the world, and certainly not to get ahead and be a trendsetter. Shopping online is an easy way to know you are safe in picking clothing because stores keep updating their clothing to follow current trends. Just make sure to not shop in separates; always keep potential outfits in mind when you’re shopping online so you know your new clothes will be easily paired with what is already in your closet.

Shop happy and stay gorgeous!

Must-haves for Fall: over-the-knee boots, denim leggings, military-style jackets, decorative tights (lace designs), long coats that accentuate the waistline, chunky knits, bold rich colored handbags Color Palette: camel, rich purple, modern metallic, olive green, pale blue, bright red --Jaudia Quinn

December 2010 | 17

Spotlights | Senior Spotlight

Senior Spotlight Future Plans: “Medical school.”

Key to Success: “Staying focused on goals that are important, staying positive, finding good role models and not getting bogged-down by the small stuff.”

Advice to underclassmen: “Get involved in organizations that are exciting to you!

Be involved in events going around you instead of being stuck in the library. You’re only here for four years, so make the best of it and try to meet as many individuals as you can and learn from their perspectives.”

Ashley Jeanlus

Birthday: October 30th Sign: Scorpio Hometown: Spring Valley, New York Major: Human Biology Health and Society Organizations: - Haitian Students Association - Black Bio-Medical Technical Association - Association for Students of Color - Human Ecology Alumni Association -Sphinx Head Senior Honor Society - Senior Class Campaign

18 | Imara Magazine

One thing you will miss: “The endless opportunities to try something new! I will never be around such a diverse group ever again in my life and I’ve been able to try something new all of the time.”

How do you have fun on campus?

“Getting off campus! Interacting with kids in the Ithaca community has reminded me there are things outside of my academics.”

Poetry | Features

Khalil let’s keep walking he said, and so he showed us just how it was done. one foot then another, add a smile and a brother and now, see? we are having a great time. a great time an era in your own always close to home i am cherishing your laughter as a morning-after keepsake. your glowy face bounces in my mind: that grin you fly fly boy.

In a sea of white and bland and beige there was you. a shadow of colors clashing and thrashing stunting as you walked. each right and each left you owned. every seat you ever contemplated was your throne. one sneaker on the ottoman and a finger by your lips. i can still see you here.

but your feet kept moving and I know you liked to walk and who am i to stop you? but i’m wishing i took back your last steps maybe a little less pep. just turn around smile for me promise you’ll be right back surprise me and hug me from the back. but see, this? this is not fair. but i know this is real. and i pray you found diamonds where you fell. you deserve a match to your spirit and your smile and your worth. what a beauty you are: a sunrise in our morning, a diamond in the sky. and i could grieve but its a blessing to know that our goodbyes were smiles and that you were still walking.

--Ujijji Davis

December 2010 | 19

Music | Upcoming Artist

Upcoming Artist

Nneka

Hometown: Warri, Nigeria Upcoming Artist: Nneka Born in Warri, Nigeria to a Nigerian father and a German mother, the 28 year old singer and songwriter Nneka has made a huge name for herself across the globe and is making her steady climb to fame in America. That being said, her stateside debut release Concrete Jungle is guaranteed to stimulate your brain as well as your ears. An eclectic mix of Soul, Hip Hop, R&B, Afrobeat and Reggae, Concrete Jungle is a collection of songs infused with hope and optimism for the people of Warri and the Niger Delta of Nigeria. With vocals that are at once bold and fragile spread across heavy drum rhythms and soft piano riffs, she relates how the blend of European and African cultures affected her upbringing and coming of age. She does this all while fearlessly tackling serious political and activist issues with her lyrics including the exploitation of her homeland and the rebuilding of the people. Her emotional melodies of Black consciousness coupled with her unique style have caught the attention of musical greats, as she has shared the stage with Lauryn Hill, Lenny Kravitz, Damian Marley and Nas. The social awareness of her music not only sets her apart from other popular R&B artist today, but also draws comparisons to the likes of Erykah Badu, and Bob Marley. These comparisons, however, in no way define her sound and Nneka remains the main ingredient to her prized musical recipe. Nneka’s music takes her listeners on a journey to a new perspective and an insight into her mission to Africanize America and the world.

Songs you should know: “Africans” “Heartbeat” “Beautiful”

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Eye Candy | Spotlights

Eye Candy

Some Candy For Your Viewing Pleasure…Enjoy!

By Jaudia Quinn

On Cornell’s campus, there is a shortage of black men which is a very unfortunate situation for us black women hoping to find that special someone.

Although we see the same black men all of the time, there are many black men on campus who do not go to our events or who have never lived in Ujamaa, but they exist! Here is a spotlight on one of those fine black men you may not have seen yet around campus…

I spotted this young Southern gentleman on West Campus and knew he would be perfect IMARA eye candy. Robert Gurley, a junior transfer student from Mississippi State, is a sexy mix of charm and mystery.

His eyes light up when he speaks of home life in Alabama, and he claims to be a simple man who enjoys living a simple life. Robert is extremely easy to talk to; in fact hours will seem like only minutes when having a conversation with him. My interview came about pretty informally with Robert one day sitting outside of CTB in Collegetown…

Why did you decide to transfer to Cornell?

“It’s all about the importance of education for me. I came here because I want to be able to get the best education I can.”

What are the biggest differences between home (Alabama) and here?

“So many! People walk so fast here, like they always have somewhere to go! And people never say hi or anything when they pass me; we always do that in Alabama.

And what really bothers me here is people walking in the same direction take up the whole sidewalk so if I want to walk I have to walk on the grass. They don’t even turn their shoulders to pretend they’re trying to let me pass. That’s rude! But on the up side, it’s beautiful here. I mean, just look around, (gesturing to the scenery around us) this is beautiful. But people don’t take the time to really slow down and look around them. People don’t seem to just enjoy life anymore.”

What physical characteristic do you look for in a woman?

“I love a woman with real hair. Nice and soft, and smells good.”

Robert Gurley

Class: Junior, 2012 School: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Major: Developmental Sociology Description: About 5 foot 9—very muscular build, brown eyes, and a beautiful smile.

What is the worst characteristic a female can have?

“I can’t take a girl with an attitude. I just can’t do it.”

Are you seeing anyone?

“No, I’m very single. I don’t want a relationship right now. I’m adjusting to Cornell and have football. I am up for meeting people and having a good time.”

What type of music are you in to?

“Real thug music, if you know what I mean. I always have my music loud when I’m riding around town and around campus. You’ll know it’s me (flashing his perfect smile).”

What are your plans after graduation?

“I’m pre-Med so I plan to go to medical school. If not, I have a few good connections in Alabama so I may just start working and go to medical school later.”

Who is your role model?

“Oh man I have the greatest Dad in the world. I can’t even tell you. He has always been there for me and made a way to provide me with everything I ever need or want.

I honestly don’t know how he does it sometimes.”

December 2010 | 21

Fashion | 3 Pieces for 4 Shapes

E

veryone wants to look stylish nowadays and wear the latest trends in clothes and accessories.

Unfortunately for most women every trend isn’t very flattering to all body types. While one trend might look fabulous on one person it might make another person look at awkward or even worse, accentuate one’s flaws. It is vital that every woman knows how the wear the latest trends as the fashion basics in a way that is most flattering to their body type. So lets take a look at how to wear some classic pieces that every woman should have in their closet. We will look at the four basic body types and what styles of the three essential fall/winter pieces work for that body type.

Body Type 1: Apple (triangle downward)-Apple shaped women have broad bust compared to hips.

How to wear Leggings This body type is perfect for leggings because they have slim legs that appear nice and 22 | Imara Magazine

3Pieces smooth in leggings. However, leggings can be awkward if the person has too much body because they accentuate the disproportionate nature of the figure. They should stay away from tops that are top heavy because they do not balance their frame and should aim for wearing more tunics.

Loose fitted and boyfriend style tops are also perfect for this body type. Apples are also able to get away with bright colored leggings because they bring attention to the hips making the body appear more proportionate.

Finding the right sweaters V- Neck sweaters can suit almost every type of body shape and is a must for every wardrobe. These sweaters will flatter especially those women who have a bigger bust. Women with smaller bust can also wear with V- Neck sweaters that are in style. Apples should find sweaters that minimize the size of their upper body. Loose fitting sweaters that are poncho or boxed shape are perfect for this body time because they make the upper body appear slimmer.

Longer sweaters that fall below the hips also make the body appear more proportionate because they minimize the appearance of a wide shoulder.

Getting the Perfect coat Single breasted coats are best for this body type. Look for coats with vertical seams because they elongate the upper torso. Avoid buttons, epaulets, and shoulder flaps because they

can make shoulders look broader.

Also avoid shoulders with top heavy detailing.

Body Type 2: Banana (straight)Straight shaped women have bust, waist and hips measurement that are relatively equal to the eye.

How to wear Leggings This body type has the best body for leggings. They can get away with almost anything but loose bodices look especially amazing on this body type.

Finding the right sweaters Off-the-shoulder sweaters are perfect for this body type because they confuse the eye, giving the body some shape. Horizontal striped sweaters also look great on this body type because they also add shaping to the upper torso.

Getting the Perfect coat Look for coats that are flared at the bottom and detailed because they add shaping for this body type. Futuristic and asymmetrical coats look amazing on this body type because they also add shaping. Straight shaped women

for 4 Shapes

don’t have to worry about coats making them look wider as much as other types.

Body Type 3: Pear (triangle upward)-The bottom half of Pear shape women is bigger than their upper torso.

How to wear Leggings Pear shaped women should always look to add length to their body.

They should opt for long leggings and should wear tops that cover the hips. Longer bodice make

the upper torso look stronger and evens the difference between hip and bust size. They should also wear heels whenever possible because this slim down the legs and add more length. High heeled boots or stilettos that match the color of the leggings are great for making the legs look longer. Avoid tops that are too loose, boxy, have no shaping and fall at or below the hip line because they make the wearer wider around their upper body.

Finding the right sweaters Long Cardigans are perfect for this body type because they make the

hips and butt area look slimmer. Off the shoulder and horizontal striped sweaters also look good on this body type because they make the upper body look wider. This evens out the difference in the size of upper and lower body, making the body appear more proportionate.

Getting the Perfect coat Choose an A-line coat to fit the curves of the body. A coat with a fitted top and flared bottom can help accentuate a narrow waist. Coats with heavy detailing on the top like large buttons, wide collars, exaggerated shoulders and epaulets can be very flattering to this woman. Think wide collars and shoulder flaps Body Type 4: Hourglass shape The hip and bust are almost of equal size with a narrow waist.

How to wear Leggings Just like the pear shaped woman, hour glass figures also want to elongate the legs because they tend to appear stumpy. Jersey dresses, tunics and waisted dresses compliment this figure very well. Tights layered with short shorts and mini-skirts are also a good option for this woman as long as you choose shorts that go above the mid-thigh. These all create the illusion of long legs.

3 Pieces for 4 Shapes | Fashion

Sweaters with vertical stripes and seams that elongate the body fits the body well.

Getting the Perfect coat If you have an hourglass shape you can never go wrong with a belted coat. A-line coats are also perfect for this body but avoid anything that adds unnecessary bulk to the body since the body is already quite proportionate.

The trick to looking your best is to always make sure your body looks balanced. Symmetrical and balanced things are always more pleasing to the eye so if you can manage to make your body look more proportionate you will immediately look better.

Bring attention to the smaller parts of your body and conceal the larger parts. Always remember proportions proportions proportions!

--Matilda Ceesay

Finding the right sweaters Belted sweater dresses are perfect for this body type because they compliment the curves.

December 2010 | 23

Features | Diva Speaks

diva SPEAKS I’m a little embarrassed to write this letter. My problem is serious to me, however, so here goes. I met a guy this semester that is just amazing. He and I seem compatible in so many ways. We like the same music and foods, have the same pastimes, and are even in sync spiritually. What’s the problem? He seems to be the shy type. I mean, I spend lots of time with him, he flirts with me, and I even think he may know I have a crush on him. Sadly though, he refuses to make the first move. I hate to admit that I’m sort of the conservative type…which means I’m not sure if I should just tell him how I feel or wait for him to take the initiative?

Signed, Smitten

Dear Smitten, Sounds like a classic case of “failure to launch” to me! Your guy is more than shy, he’s oblivious. If you’ve been spending all this time with him (and hopefully presenting your best self) and he still hasn’t made a move…I may have some shocking advice for you.

Either sink or swim sister! You’ve got all the makings of a great relationship, you seem to have gotten to know him, and you are even using your feminine powers of deduction (read: seduction) to presume that the feelings you have may be mutual. Now it’s time to take the plunge. If he won’t ask, then why don’t you? Listen, while I’m no proponent of any woman humiliating herself, it sounds like you’re dealing with some pretty good odds here. Either way, you’ve got to decide to let him know how you feel or chalk it up to a good friendship and nothing more. Now I’m not sure you want to be stuck in the dreaded “friend zone” forever, but you can’t keep calling him the shy one either. It’s 2010 girl and you have just as much right to take that bold step as any guy on this campus…And remember, sometimes they’re intimidated by us! Your guy may very well be feeling you and just afraid to get turned down by a DIVA as amazing as you. Take home message: Go for it. And have no regrets. You’re only an undergrad once and you’ve got nothing to lose.

Think about it: by the time you’re 50, you won’t even remember him. That is… unless he’s still yours!

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Photo courtesy of Jillian Lyles

Dear DivaSpeaks:

Diva Speaks | Features

Dear DivaSpeaks: I flat out can’t figure out how to explain to my parents that I hate coming home for holiday breaks. It’s too hard to transition from complete freedom to rules and regulations, and if my mom asks me one more time where I’m going, who I’m going with, and what time I’ll be back…

I may just pull all of my hair out! Don’t get me wrong, I love my family. It’s just that here at school I’m free to come and go as I please and I’m enjoying every minute of it. Then I go home and I’m treated as if I’m back in high school. What do I do?

Signed, TooOldForCurfew

Dear TooOldForCurfew, Whew…I’m already feeling sorry for you! It sounds like your parents have made coming home a more stressful affair than being here at Cornell…and we all know it takes a lot to accomplish that. Well, here’s what I think. Your parents love you. When you walk through that front door with your luggage and in your Cornell sweats, all they see is their sweet little girl. Then you leave to go hang with friends and show back up at 4 a.m. It’s shocking for them too. Think about it…they’re not here on campus when you’re dragging yourself in from the Alpha Phi Alpha Party, After Party, and After-After Party! They can’t adjust their minds to it. Actually the only reason they sleep at night while you’re here is because they imagine teeny tiny versions of themselves on your right and left shoulder telling you when to go to bed, wake up for class, study, and even eat! So…for there to be any peace for you…or them…there’s gonna have to be some compromise. Keep in mind that home is not school. There is no Bluelight service and no CPD officers doing rounds every hour.

And your parents aren’t your RA. They actually miss you when you’re gone. Take home message: When in Rome….do as your parents say. It might be tough but just look at it like this…there are only a few days ‘til you’re back in your dorm. Over holiday breaks…appease them. If that’s too hard, you don’t have to totally give in, and there’s something to be said for having a nice, respectful sit down talk with them during your down time, when tempers aren’t flaring and you aren’t just pulling up to their front door at 4a.m. If all else fails, go home less often. Get an externship for winter break, a service trip over spring break, and a summer internship. Your parents will be proud of their ambitious daughter, and you will have the much needed space you crave!

To contact DivaSpeaks, send an email to imaramag@gmail.com.

December 2010 | 25

Music | You’s a Hottie Tottie

You’s a Hot Tottie When I first heard the single “Hot Tottie” off Usher’s new album, Versus, I was taking my mother’s car for a spin down in Harlem, New York. It was the summer, and I was jamming with the windows down, and the volume all the way up. Yet, as I kept singing the song, something didn’t sit right with me. Well, first, I didn’t really like that Usher was validating infidelity, something I feel he does rather often, but he kept calling the girl a hot tottie: “I’m like oh Kimosabe/Your body is my hobby/We freakin’/ This ain’t cheatin’ as long as we don’t tell nobody /Tell your girls you’re leaving/I’ll meet you in the lobby/I’m so cold, yeah I need that hot tottie.” (Courtesy of metrolyrics.com) Well, as I was singing the song, I didn’t fully understand the lyrics. I still don’t know who Kimosabe is, and why Usher would compare himself to him, but it was really hot tottie that stood out. I know a hot tottie to be a hot drink that people have before bed when they feel sick (the recipe is lemon tea, honey and two ounces of Bourbon for those feeling under the weather). Still, the idea of calling a woman that made me think about the word itself.

Hot tottie is a shortened version of the term Hottentot Venus, a name given to a South African woman in the early nineteenth century. She was called Sarah Baartman, and was a member of the Khoi people. Unfortunately, she rose to fame by being exhibited in freak show attractions all throughout Europe.

The name Hottentot Venus referred to Sarah’s body. She was described to have unusual body features like large buttocks and elongated labia. It was Sarah’s body that sold her into a new kind of slavery.

Under the impression of wealth and freedom, Sarah agreed to travel to Europe with her slave owner’s brother. Upon arrival, he put Sarah in a circus where she was forced to entertain viewers by allowing tourists to see and touch her body. She was given

26 | Imara Magazine

costumes of coconut husks or her nude body was painted. She was made to dance in a way where her whole body shook and she was forced into prostitution. In 1815, she died, having contracted smallpox and syphilis.

Even after, Sarah had passed, her body was not yet laid to rest. In 1816, scientists and doctors carved out her gentalia and brain and preserved the parts in wax. Her body parts were placed on display in Paris’ Musee de l’Homme until 1974. And even after that, for two more years, a molded casting of her vagina and brain was presented in its place.

Sarah Baartman’s remains now lay in Gamtoos Valley in South Africa, and she was finally laid to rest in May, 6, 2002. There had been calls by South African activists to return her body since 1940, but it wasn’t until the election of Nelson Mandela in 1991 that the French National Assembly responded.

The story of Sarah Baartman is sad, and to hear Usher call the girl in the song a hot tottie made me wonder if the term still held its weight, especially when justice was served nearly 180 years after Sarah’s birth. Sarah, the original hot tottie, was forced to expose her articulated body to crowds throughout Europe, and she was the warm drink that calmed the shot nerves of European males who both marveled and despised her beauty. She became a precedent to other Euro-centric means of body exhibition like auction blocks and explicit music videos.

I know Usher means well, but as we move forward into a more aware and intelligent society, there are things we still need to know, and issues we can’t let slide. RIP Sarah Baartman.

--Ujijji Davis

Photos around Campus

December 2010 | 27

And Lets Not Forget...

We Would Like To Thank our advisor: Dr. Renee Alexander And everybody else that helped to make this issue a success!

The IMARA woman is...

Cosmopolitan by nature She is modern by choice She is a queen by birthright She holds the puissance of Cleopatra The confidence of Nefertiti The allure of Aphrodite She embodies the Agape Theon She is the progeny of Isis She is fervent and resolute She is stronger than the strongest diamond And just as precious She is flirty, fun and fleeting She is a scholar, an athlete and a leader She excels, she succeeds, she overachieves She is the personification of IMARA Do you have what it takes for IMARA?

Want To Be Part of Something Great?

Than IMARA needs YOU! We need photographers, writers, reporters, make up artists, designers, If your interested in working on IMARA at all, email imaramag@gmail.com for more info, contact any of the eboard members today!

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IMARA is an independent student organization located at Cornell University, produced, and is responsible for the content of, this publication. This publication was not reviewed or approved by, nor does it necessarily express or reflect the policies or opinions of, Cornell University or its designated representatives.