The Talon | Issue 1 | May 25, 2021

THE TALON

LETTER

Dear Reader, I want to start off by expressing my gratitude. I am so grateful for my fellow Talonites, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be able to produce a newsmag during these surreal times.

THE TALON

Newsmagazine 201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA Volume XXXVII Staff Stella Huang

Editor-in-Chief

Navya Singhai

Cedric Chan

Emily Zhu

Vaishu Sirkay

Nina Crofts

Rachel Rudyak

Katy Stadler

Elana Eisenberg

Kaavya Butaney

Natalie Wei

Allan Feldman

Rose Liu

Print Managing Editor

Web Managing Editor

Media Managing Editor News Editor

Preparing for our print issues has always been my favorite part of Talon. Perhaps it was because we crowded Room 409’s decade-old recliner, editing drafts with classmates while snacking on potato chips, or because we engaged in stress-induced bonding with other staffers, staying after school until 9 p.m. to frantically assemble the newsmag.

Although we haven’t been able to share those experiences this year, distance learning has proven to be a blessing in disguise. Our email newsletter would have never materialized without quarantine, and our social media platform has been as large as ever.

We’ve accepted this uncertainty and ambiguity, and incorporated it into our new understanding of “normal.” I couldn’t be more proud. Please enjoy Talon’s first print issue, a compilation of our team’s favorite articles written this year, a sign of our gratitude to you.

Opinions Editor

Features Editor

Culture Editor

Sports Editor

Copy Editor

Copy Editor

Business Manager

Business Manager

Michael Moul Adviser

Photography Captain Marie Godderis

Videography Captain Isaac Tesfaye

Senior Staff

Allison Bricca, Elli Lahdesmaki, Parisa Larson, Emily McNally, Barrett Wong

Staff

Stella Huang Editor-in-Chief The Cover | Graphic by Emily Zhu

Lauren Chung, Emilie Enser, Olivia Hewang, Naomi Ichiriu, Nathaniel Joffe, Elyssa Kennedy, Kaley Kwan, Lauren Morimoto, Katherine O’Neal, Naomi Schulze, Anika Sikka, Mira Sundar, Rohan Vaswani, Kathrina Welborn

Honorary Pulitzer Supporters

The Cox Family, the Ichiriu Family, the Joyce Family, the Kraskouskas Family, the Morelle Family, the Omura Family, the Sharp Family

Silver Supporters

2 // May 2021

The Butaney Family, the Huang Family, the Jain Family, the Kralevich Family, the Lahdesmaki Family, the Lang Family, the Moravick Family, the Murphy Family, the Redden Family, the Sundar Family, the Katherine Wang Family, the Richard Wang Family

4. news

Staff writer Olivia Hewang delves into the District’s plan to construct a new high school in Mountain View.

9. focus

The Talon investigates different aspects of Los Altos High School’s return to in-person learning.

14. features

Guest writer and activist Kenan Moos reflects on his and the community’s involvement in social justice this past year.

20. opinions Staff writer Kaley Kwan calls for Council Member Lynette Lee Eng’s resignation following allegations of racism toward activist Kenan Moos.

26. culture

A writer explores the nuances to queer representation in the media industry, highlighting the need for authenticity.

30. sports Staff writers Anika Sikka and Mira Sundar report on the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs’ standing in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as other key moments in sports and politics over the past year.

The Talon // 3

NEWS

SROs and Ethnic Studies — A Closer Look CEDRIC CHAN

ANIKA SIKKA

Following the increased conversation around racism, police brutality and inequality last summer, Los Altos residents demanded the elimination of School Resource Officers (SROs) and the implementation of a mandatory ethnic studies curriculum in Mountain View–Los Altos District schools. Ultimately, the Los Altos City Council voted unanimously in late November to remove SROs from Los Altos High School (LAHS) and to amend the Los Altos Police Department’s (LAPD) digital complaint process. There has also been continued talk surrounding the implementation of an ethnic studies class at LAHS in 2022.

However, this decision only came after months of active community involvement regarding

testimonials, Board meetings, and lengthy discussions by Board members on this topic.

Web Managing Editor

Staff Writer

MIRA SUNDAR Staff Writer

NAOMI ICHIRIU Graphic Artist

Taylor was walking his bike to these charges, many of Tayschool alongside lor’s white and his friends when Asian peers “flew an SRO pulled Any time an officer past him on their SROs him over. talks to you, you get bikes,” some not “He saw me helmets SROs are police officers stathis adrenaline rush wearing put on my helat all, Taylor tioned on campus who are — you get this high said. trained to respond to school-re- met, but because I didn’t have it on because you know “Any time an lated issues. the whole time officer talks to that the cop has got “The benefit of SROs is that he just went on you, you get this students get to know local poa weapon on you,” adrenaline rush lice officers from the Los Altos this whole rant on Taylor said. “And — you get this and Mountain View forces and different ways he when you’re Black, could give me a high because you can build positive relationships ticket right there,” know that the cop you are very aware with them,” Principal Wynne Taylor said. that there is a high- has got a weapon Satterwhite said.

According to on you,” Taylor However, while the school’s er chance of them Taylor, while said. “And when goal might have been positive, using it on you. he was never you’re Black, you many students have felt unsafe charged, the of— Kiyoshi Taylor ’15 are very aware around SROs on campus. that there is a Kiyoshi Taylor, ’15, said he was ficer said that he could cite him for lying to higher chance of them using it unnecessarily stopped by SROs an officer, obstruction of juson you.” multiple times while commutFormer Board President Saning to school. In one incident, tice and several other charges.

While the officer listed out jay Dave also believes that SROs do not have a place on MVLA campuses. “[A student] said that the white students would hang out at one end of the parking lot, but the SROs never came to them,” he said. “They’d always go to another location where the brown students were hanging out. SROs create systemic bias, and we need to rethink our relationship with police departments.”

There is one SRO for 16 campuses in the Los Altos area, according to Police Chief Andy Galea, so the officer isn’t on campus for long periods of time.

“There seems to be an impression that the SRO is patrolling every campus,” Galea said. “That is not correct; the SRO is specially trained to respond to school and juvenile related incidents. The SRO does not go on campus unless there KATRINA ARSKY Following the increased conversation around racism, police brutality and inequality last summer, Los Altos is a request from the school or a residents demanded the elimination of School Resource Officers (SROs) and the implementation of a mandatory reported crime.” ethnic studies curriculum in Mountain View–Los Altos District schools. In late November, the Los Altos City The Los Altos Police DepartCouncil voted to remove SROs from LAHS and the MVLA board is woking to implement ethnic studies in 2022. ment (LAPD) has not received any specific complaints about 4 // May 2021

SROs, he added.

“The officers told me, ‘If you Satterwhite said there have move, we’re going to arrest been many times when SROs you,’” Price said. “It made me were necessary to de-escalate an feel very upset, disrespected incident on campus. However, and helpless at the time. I felt some teachers have spoken up like as a teacher I failed because about their negative experiences students look to you as a place with SROs on the LAHS campus. of refuge, but there was nothing In a testimonial for The I could do. All the respect and Black Hub, an organization power I had as a person who aiming to raise worked on camawareness about pus just went racism in the Los Ethnic studies out the door.”

Altos community, Trustisn’t trying to solve eeBoard special education Dr. Phil Failteacher Kalinda issues of racial lace believes Price described an injustice. We’re just that while the experience where hoping to empower SRO program she was escorting students to instihas problems, a Black student it is ultimately back to his par- gate conversations a necessary seent’s car, where the so that they’re able curity measure. student’s parents to see all perspec“It was diswere already being tives on an issue. tressing to hear questioned by an several MVLA — LA SAE member students, alumSRO and additionMaya Acharya al LAPD officers; ni and teachers the officers assumed Price, describe their interactions with who is Black, was involved in SROs,” Faillace said. “Their acan ongoing altercation involv- counts of what happened including Black students. ed behaviors that ranged from Price said that even though disrespectful, to intimidating to, she had explained to the offi- in one instance, terrifying.” cers who she was and the stuUltimately, the Los Altos dent’s circumstances, the offi- City Council voted unanicer in charge wouldn’t listen. A mously to remove SROs from few minutes later, Satterwhite the LAHS campus and amend intervened and tried to explain the LAPD’s digital complaint the situation, but the officer process. still didn’t listen.

By recommendation from

the Los Altos Citizens’ Police Task Force, a third party complaint intake portal was created to act as a database for complaints. The data from the portal will be released annually for both the public and the LAPD to view.

A digital feedback form will soon be accessible from the City’s website to simplify the complaint process, by which the community can provide feedback to the LAPD.

ETHNIC STUDIES Los Altos Students, Alumni and Education (LA SAE) association member Sreoshi Sarkar, ’20, has been working with history teacher Seth Donnelly to develop a freshman-year ethnic studies program at LAHS. The course would not have an honors option, as LA SAE members want to incorporate a sense of unity amongst peers.

AP history courses normally taken in sophomore year — AP Human Geography and AP European History — would be categorized instead as electives because World Studies, the current freshman history requirement, would be the required sophomore year history class, although members said they are open to discussion about what the history track would actually look like.

The ethnic studies course would teach students about the history and perspectives of different racial minority groups in the United States and how that affects society today.

“We never really delve into the stories that highlight the beauty and the agency of these underrepresented groups,” Sarkar said. “Instead, we focus on the stories of pain and struggling, which needs to change.”

Members of the Board at the time, and the current Board, also expressed support of the implementation of an ethnic studies course.

“It’s an important conversation to have,” Dave said. “We need to have an accurate view of other cultures that isn’t the stereotypical view a lot of people grew up with.”

LA SAE member Maya Acharya sees ethnic studies in a similar light.

“Ethnic studies isn’t trying to solve issues of racial injustice,” Acharya said. “We’re just hoping to empower students to instigate conversations so that they’re able to see all perspectives on an issue.”

As of now, California has also adopted a statewide ethnic studies curriculum. The Board is working to implement the course in 2022.

The Talon // 5

Maintaining Connection during COVID-19 MARIE GODDERIS Senior Writer

EMILIE ENSER Staff Writer

LAUREN CHUNG Graphic Artist

CHAC Support Groups During the pandemic, Mountain View–Los Altos District administrators and counselors are continuing to search for ways to expand the mental health resources for students. In February, the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) implemented support groups for LAHS freshmen, sophomores and juniors to address mental health needs.

“We recognize that students are feeling isolated and are eager to provide an opportunity for connection and support so that students can realize that they’re not alone,” CHAC therapist Marcie Kay said.

“We hope students can come and includes up to 10 students, together to share worries and composed of either freshmen concerns, lift each other’s spir- or a mix of sophomores and its and that the juniors to ensure groups can adapt that students in in the moment to We recognize that any particular the topics most students are feeling group will have at important to stu- isolated and are eager least their grade in dents.” common with othto provide an opporHeld every er group members.

The support Wednesday from tunity for connection group differs from 12–1 p.m, the group and support so that CHAC’s one-onmeetings are struc- students can realize tured with weekly that they’re not alone. one meetings as it provides students themes, which include coping with — CHAC therapist Marcie Kay the opportunischool pressure and uncertainty ty to share, connect and learn as well as self-care and stress from their peers’ challenges, reduction. Each group is fa- whereas individual counseling cilitated by CHAC therapists sessions center around specific

mental health issues and goals.

The support groups are open to any student, regardless of their prior involvement with CHAC. Students must consistently attend the weekly sessions to continue building connections with their group members.

“We hope students will feel more connected to their community and aware of their strength to get through this trying moment in history,” CHAC therapist Lauren Bruhn said. “Whether students feel these support groups are right for them or not, we hope they will keep CHAC in mind if they want a safe and confidential space.”

Candidly Speaking To normalize and encourage conversations about inclusivity, leadership classes at LAHS and Mountain View High School brought Candidly Speaking, a program dedicated to promoting open discussion, to MVLA

6 // May 2021

students through a webinar on Thursday, February 25.

“Our biggest goal with Candidly Speaking is to create a space where students feel comfortable enough to share about themselves and be

treated with respect,” MVHS er openly and with empathy.

ASB President Ava Kopp said. Listening is vastly underesti“We hope to create a more uni- mated in how far it goes to crefied school district, one that is ate change in someone.” more capable of bringing about The timing of the event was change.” also especially In contrast to significant, acIt’s about listening to previous MVLA cording to Aida. webinars , the each other openly and “This came at Candidly Speak- with empathy. Listen- the perfect oping event al- ing is vastly underesportunity as it’s lowed for more timated in how far it Black History interactive disMonth, and we cussions be- goes to create change have dedicated tween students in someone. a commission as they were — MVHS ASB to racial equity President Ava Kopp on campus in split up into different groups.

ASB,” Aida said.

Students responded to several “We’ve been wanting to have prepared questions, sharing an activity for students to get their unique experiences with to hear each other and create race and culture. After shar- a safe space beyond just oneing, groups were shuffled and time conversations. Especialthe process was repeated, con- ly in these extraordinary circluding with a larger discus- cumstances with COVID-19 sion in the main room. where we’re not on campus “It’s not a debate or even talking to our peers like we much of a discussion,” Ava said. usually would, this creates “It’s about listening to each oth- that space.”

Freshman Orientation Lively music greeted fresh- accustomed to being back on men as they arrived on campus campus and remembering anyfor their first official on-cam- thing about student life they pus experience on Wednesday, may have forgotten,” ASB March 10, while Jumpstart Vice President and junior Aida mentors, spread out around Yezalaleul said. the quad, helped Almost 300 them find their freshmen chose to designated small I decided to come attend the event, groups.

The today so that I could with 35 uppermentors — As- meet new people classmen volunsociated Student teering as group Body (ASB) and and hear new things mentors and leadStudent Com- about the school. It ing ice-breakers munity Leaders was really great to and a campus (SCL) student see people together tour. ASB split volunteers — led up the orientation talking and introduc- into three sessions small groups of eight to 14 fresh- ing themselves. to allow smaller men through the — freshman Sam Stein groups of stuorientation-style dents, encouragevent, hosted in anticipation of ing them to ask more questions the students’ hybrid return to and familiarize themselves with campus. the school community.

“The main goal that we were “I decided to come today so that able to accomplish with this I could meet new people and hear event was getting the fresh- new things about the school,” freshman and students in general man Sam Stein said. “It was really

great to see people together talking and introducing themselves. I’m just excited to get to walk around somewhere that’s not my house.”

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, the mentors were ultimately happy with the event, hoping that future jumpstart orientations can be held under

normal conditions.

“The freshman orientation was a success considering it was an optional event, and we had a great turnout,” Aida said. “They all seemed to feel more comfortable on campus afterward, and we look forward to meeting the rest of the class of 2024.”

Senior Events As the senior class approaches the end of their high school careers, the celebration season is just beginning. Although many traditions will have to adapt to coronavirus precautions, the senior class has made the necessary modifications to safely commemorate the end of their four years at LAHS. While the senior class picnic, scheduled for Thursday, June 3, will remain mostly the same, this year’s prom has been changed to a formal, plated dinner called “Seniors Under the Stars.” Taking place on the newly illuminated football field, all seniors are invited to celebrate

together on Saturday, May 15, for be a Prom Top 20, followed by the two- to three-hour event. To a Top 2, both of which are inensure COVID-19 dependent of safety, both tables’ gender. On the members and the Although many night of Seniors tables themselves traditions will have Under the Stars, will be spread out, to adapt to coronavithe Prom Top 2 and dancing will will be revealed rus precautions, the not be allowed. following the anThe event will senior class has made nouncement of feature profession- the necessary modthe Top 20 Court. al photographers, ifications to safely Assistant Prinsenior “toasts and commemorate the cipal Suzanne roasts” and a full Woolfolk and sized screen to end of their four years MVHS Assispresent the senior at LAHS tant Principal slideshow and Jon Robell desenior talent performances. veloped three potential plans Since there was no Homecom- for this year’s graduation cereing Top 20 this year, there will mony based on the results of a

survey answered by members of the senior class. Plan A involves the entire senior class graduating together on campus with remote spectators.

Plan B involves two mini-ceremonies, allowing for in-person spectators. However, students won’t be able to walk across a stage to receive their diplomas. Based on various surveys and senior class council meetings, they’ve decided upon Plan C which calls for an off-campus graduation at the PayPal stadium, allowing seniors to have one ceremony all together, as well as two to four in-person spectators per graduate.

The Talon // 7

MVLA To Construct New High School To Accommodate Anticipated Growth OLIVIA HEWANG Staff Writer

The Mountain View–Los Altos School District is planning to construct a new high school in Mountain View.

The District did not give an exact timeline for the completion of the school, but Associate Superintendent of Business Services Mike Mathiesen expects it to take somewhere within five years to purchase the land and at least three more to start construction.

The new school will meet an anticipated spike in MVLA enrollment as a result of housing expansion in Mountain View, according to Mathiesen.

In 2019, the City of Mountain View approved multiple plans allowing 20,000 additional housing units to be built in the next few decades, generating 1,152 new high school students for the District.

“That’s more than we can really accommodate on our existing two campuses,” he said. “Los Altos High School has about 2,200 students, and we’re already building new classrooms to support the existing enrollment, plus the growth that we know is in the elementary and junior highs. So we’re really running out of room.”

On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, the City Council approved the Citywide School Strategy, which supports the expansion of the MVLA and Mountain View Whisman school districts as a result of those planned housing increases.

Mathiesen reported that the District has been working on the project for two to three years and has already calculated the costs of purchasing land. However, identifying the actual plot of land and figuring out how to acquire it will be a challenge.

“If you want to buy a plot

Mountain View senior planof land the size of LAHS — 30 acres at 15 million an acre — ner Eric Anderson also noted that development that’s about 450 is slowing due to million dollars,” pandemic, Mathiesen said. LAHS has about 2,200 the suggesting that “We recognize in the housing units a built-out area students, and we’re may take longer like Mountain already building new View that that’s classrooms to support than anticipated.

To purchase just not doable.” the existing enrollthe land, AnderTo cut down on land costs, ment, plus the growth son said that the Mathiesen said that we know is in the City could allow that the District elementary and junior the District to use the City of is considering a more com- highs. So we’re really Mountain View’s funds set aside pact campus running out of room. of around 15 to — Associate Superintendent for open space for 20 acres. But of Business Services the acquisition; Mike Mathiesen Mathiesen said Mathiesen said it another way to will likely be at least 10 years before the addi- ease costs for the District would tional housing is built, giving be for the City to purchase the the District more time to flesh school’s fields to be used as a community park when not in out its plans.

use by the school.

In the past, the Los Altos School District has taken advantage of zoning regulations by selling unused square footage to fund land acquisitions. The City sets limits on the number of stories that can be built in certain zones, meaning that if a zone is underutilized — for example, if a two-story building is on a five-story zone — the owner of that land can sell the unused square footage to developers.

The developers can then take the buildable space they purchased and use it elsewhere.

At the October 13 City Council meeting last year, the Council committed half of the $2.5 million “community benefit” funding from developers to the school district expansions.

EMILY MCNALLY

The District is set to construct a new school in the city of Mountain View to accommodate projected growth.

FOCUS

District releases finalized hybrid return agreement The Mountain View–Los Altos School District and the District Teachers’ Association (DTA) released the terms and conditions for the District’s return to in-person instruction. Released on Friday, March 26, the agreement included new changes to the hybrid model and finalized all hybrid plans.

The agreement outlined MVLA’s spring reopening phases. The first stage was the implementation of Stable Learning Groups.

Classrooms were then prepared for in-person learning, and Monday, April 19, marked the return to campus following Spring Break. On Monday, April 26, students transitioned to full days of hybrid instruction.

“There’s a few students — because of WiFi issues — that I’ve never really seen,” Human Biology teacher Michael Rasmussen said. “Getting to see faces that I’ve never really seen and connect with students in person has been really cool.”

However, teachers and students on campus experienced sporadic interruptions to their internet service on Thursday, April 22.

According to Information Technology Department Director Bob Fishtrom, the incident stemmed from a Comcast outage impacting a circuit through which internet service is transmitted from the County’s Office of Education to Los Altos High 10 // May 2021

School. on the LAHS campus, and The lapses in service last- students can also go to El ed up to a few minutes each Camino Hospital to get free and impacted the entire testing. Classrooms will use school campus, 3-foot physical prompting condistancing befusion among tween students Getting to see faces teachers who with 6-foot were unable to that I’ve never really distancing bec o m m u n i c a t e seen and connect tween adult with their dis- with students in perstaff. tanced classes If an in-person has been really through Zoom. son student Despite the cool. were to test temporary confor — Human Biology teacher positive fusion, the loss Michael Rasmussen c o r o n a v i r u s , of internet conthe hybrid renection was ultimately man- turn dashboard will be upageable to most teachers, dated and contact tracing according to English teacher will begin, according to AsKeren Dawson-Bowman. sociate Superintendent of “I think I’ve taught at Los Personnel Leyla Benson, the Altos long enough to know COVID-19 case designee. The that the Internet was going student who tests positive to be bumpy, so we have it will immediately be isolated in our heads to have back- and all students with possiup plans,” Dawson-Bowman ble close contact exposure said. “It’s just a shame that it will be notified through happens.” email and phone call withIn addition to public health in four hours and updated regulations, MVLA cited throughout the process. students’ well-being, a safe Students remaining rephysical environment, con- mote, referred to as “zoomies” tinuity for the 2020–2021 by the District, will be able to school year and equitable interact with their in-person learning access as driving counterparts, referred to as factors to return for hybrid “roomies” over Zoom. Howinstruction. ever, how and when Zoom is The return has operated utilized is up to the teacher, under safety regulations pro- and will depend on what the vided by the State Health class is doing that day.

Department and California If roomies wish to switch Department of Public Health back to remote learn(CDPH), including required ing, they may face coverings, physical dis- do so, but tancing, adequate ventila- zoomies cantion, hand hygiene, surveil- not switch to lance or screening testing i n - p e r s o n and reporting symptoms and instruction. If a close-contact exposure. roomie is consisCOVID-19 testing will be tently violating provided twice a month safety pro-

cedures or missing in-person class and joining online, they will be transferred to remote learning.

All teachers are required to return to campus for the hybrid model unless they have doctor’s notes — in that case, teachers will not be required to be on campus until July. These teachers will continue teaching remotely through Zoom while substitute teachers supervise their classrooms.

“The plan did a good job of trying to meet the needs of as many people as possible,” biology teacher Tory Johnson said. “It’s not possible for everyone to get exactly what they want, but this plan makes some good compromises.”

MVLA also announced that the 2021–2022 instructional year, beginning Wednesday, August 11, will be fully in-person and will debut a new bell schedule.

The journey back to traditional sports — ­ a closer look “The postother schools ponement defipresent at our nitely impacted swim meets,” There was an initial a ton of players,” varsity swimmer varsity football nervousness that we senior May Jiang player junior wouldn’t do as well said. “However, Mingaang Park because there were we maintained said. “We had no other schools an exciting ena few guys that ergy through would play if the present at our swim cheering everyseason wasn’t meets. one on.” postponed, but — senior May Jiang Practice cohorts and chose not to becompetition postcause of it. We weren’t totally Complications and ponements happy with it, but by then we rule adjustments just wanted to play.”

After months of Starting in late FebruZoom workouts, ary, competitions began to Competitions resume the Mountain resemble the traditional under new schedule View–Los shoulder-to-shoulder game Altos District Finally, in mid-January, play of pre-COVID-19 sports, allowed ath- Season 1 sports resumed as the 6-foot-social distancletes to re- practices under California ing rules were no longer turn to in-per- Department of Public Health enforced during games. son training (CDPH) guidelines. Athletes However, this rule was still starting at the were still mandated to wear mandated off the field. end of June last masks whenever possible and In early March, SCVAL put year. However, ath- abide by social distancing off making a decision reletes were limited to rules. garding postseason compeone cohort of no more Following this transition, tition and decided that aththan 12 students and a the SCVAL Board of Manag- letes were allowed to play single coach. ers approved a three-season both club and high school This decision sparked hope sports schedule on Thurs- sports. This decision was that things were day, January made following a public wemoving forward 21. Shortly af- binar in response to student for high school Our first competition terwards, the and parent complaints. The sports. However, Clara League also allowed a limitback was awesome. A Santa the California County Public ed number of spectators at I n te r s c h o l a s t i c whole year and a half Health Depart- Season 2 and 3 sports.

Federation (CIF) away from the game ment updated “I think it was still cool postponed all just felt way too long, guidelines re- that we got our parsports cohorts to garding dis- ents and famiand the fact that the the beginning of tance between lies as specDecember and team was on the same athletic co- tators, but it cancelled all Re- page as me added on horts, allow- would’ve been gional and State to the good feelings. ing Season 1 cool to hear Championship — junior Mingaang Park sports to begin the chanting events for Seaco m p e t i t i o n s of the home son 1 sports. The on Thursday, February 18. crowd, escontinued postponement of “There was an initial ner- pecially uncompetition provided a lot vousness that we wouldn’t do der the lights,” of uncertainty for athletes. as well because there were no Mingaang said.

In March of 2020, the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League (SCVAL) canceled all spring sports games due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the County. Between cancellations, postponements and COVID-19 restrictions, it’s been a long road back for LAHS athletics.

Season 2 and 3 start competing Season 2 sports resumed games on Monday, March 15, and Season 3 resumed co m petitions on Mo n d ay, Ap r i l 12 ( o u td o o r sports), and Mo n d ay, Ap r i l 1 9 (indoor sports). At l a s t , a t h l e te s a re b e g i n n i n g to fe e l a s e n s e of normalcy again.

“Our f irst competition back was awesome,” Mingaang said. “A whole year and a half away from the game just felt way too long, and the fact that the team was on the same page as me added on to the good feelings.”

As of right now, Season 3 sports are in full swing, with competitions set to end on Friday, May 28.

“Our first game was so exciting. It’s just so fun to be back,” varsity baseball pitcher senior Colby Cook said.

“It felt like we just kicked off right where we left off.”

A Teacher’s Perspective: Rebuilding Normalcy with a Growth Mindset TIFFANY KAROW Guest Writer

The looming hybrid phase cept that our “more” someof our distance learning jour- times comes at the cost of ney has left me feeling com- other’s “less.” Our fight to get pelled to respond to senti- what is best for our kid often ments I have seen expressed leaves other people’s children throughout the year during vulnerable, and more often Board meetings, in than not in MVLA, The Talon’s articles voiceless. and in District corSo for many teachrespondence. ers, it is hard to see While I don’t this pressure to think anything return sooner as will sway the anything more than “Open the Schools!” another example of position, I am hopean insular group of ful that these insights parents pushing their desires might lead to more onto the public school system thoughtful discussions in our without regard for the most community. vulnerable among us.

I live in San Carlos, a comWe are all spinning our munity similar to Los Al- wheels, spending huge tos. My children are in third amounts of time planning for and ninth grade at our local a hybrid return so “some chilschools. As a parent, I under- dren” can supposedly have stand the panic. I try to stop their lives “normalized.” and breathe and remember There is no “normalizing” there is more at play than this pandemic. my privileged Yet, I will conchild’s experitinue to delivence. I try to There is no “normaliz- er my class via remind myself Zoom because that all will be ing” this pandemic. most kids will OK and that my not be on camupper class, white, freshman pus — some of our students son is going to be fine. will have to take several busDistance learning will es to get to campus because teach my son to sacrifice a lit- of the reduced VTA routes, tle so that another freshman and I imagine the ones who who always gets the short end are on campus will quickly of the stick can have some find out that being on cambreathing room. He will learn pus might actually be worse that for all the things he has given the WiFi instability, lost, others are experiencing the masked teachers and the more significant loss than inability to have cameras on this year of distance learning while Zooming. will ever cost him.

The warm classroom vibe we This year has been a great all miss will not be recreated. source of ref lection on the Students will be facing fortrue divides and the advan- ward, six feet apart, unable to tages I have. It has been a communicate except silently chance for some of us to ac- over Google Docs. There is a 12 // May 2021

lot of disruption for questionable educational value.

I am interested to know if this vocal group of parents who continue to call into board meetings have reached out to LUCHA, the Latino parent group, or AVID teachers and students? Have they considered that most of those who are disproportionately affected by the consequences of this pandemic?

Have they considered that breaking the students’ current routines just to have some kids sitting at a desk in a classroom isn’t necessarily going to solve social-emotional issues or improve a student’s grade?

To me, a better community response would be one where kids gather in safe social bubbles. In my dreams, this “Open the Schools’’ parent group would become partners in the broader parent community groups throughout our district, helping to

lift up the voices of the parents who work three jobs and often cannot attend PTSA meetings, Board meetings or spend time on social media groups.

Let the education professionals focus our efforts on the kids who are fighting for their lives this year.

Let the education professionals focus our efforts on the kids who are fighting for their lives this year.

I ask the well-intentioned groups of parents who continue to make this work harder for everyone to please stop.

Let us finish our school year in peace. Your children will be fine. We will create memories and experiences that will help them begin to feel hopeful again.

Please. Let us do that.

From Squirrels to School: A Successful Return to Hybrid Learning KATHRINA WELBORN Staff Writer

Over the past year, I’ve become well acquainted with the cast of squirrels who have made my backyard their stage as I watch their dramatics while sitting through hours of Zoom classes. However, they will soon be left audience-less because after a year of learning over Zoom, struggling with Canvas, and dealing with the hassle and monotony of online learning, students and staff have finally returned to in-person hybrid learning following spring break.

The hybrid learning program promises a safe return to in-person instruction, complete with students moving from classroom to classroom and most of the social interactions in a school day, albeit at a distance.

For many students, starting a hybrid learning program so late in the school year begs the question, “Why even bother going back to school?”

It may sound trivial, but being at school helps break up the monotony of Zoom classes at home. Instead of staring out the window at rambunctious squirrels in my backyard, I can look at the abandoned remnants

of forgotten projects left over from our hasty departure from school in 2020. At the end of the school day, I am forced to take a break as I drive home instead of jumping straight into homework, blurring the boundaries between school and the rest of my life.

These changes also reintroduce structure to school days, which many students have lost to just rolling out of bed and attending class in their pajamas. The hybrid learning plan involves moving from classroom to classroom which reinforces a more regular school structure than has been afforded all year.

In addition to introducing structure back into the school day, this model offers flexibility for in-person students, who can choose to return to online learning if they feel unsafe or are unable to continue in the hybrid program for health or other reasons.

Even small interactions with various staff members in the hall greatly contribute to a sense of normalcy One of the biggest advantages of hybrid learning is having in-person instruction.

Though this is undoubtedly a great step toward more normal education, it can’t be compared to in-person learning in years past. Stu-

dents and teachers remain socially distanced, which may make group work more difficult especially when students working on the same project are split between in-person and online instruction. Teachers juggling teaching both in-person and online students could lead to struggles with technology, synchronicity and the overall quality of teaching from even stellar teachers.

It would be remiss to discuss returning to school without mentioning the social aspect. When signing up for Stable Learning Groups, I doubted that I would notice any difference in socializing since none of my friends were attending. Much to my surprise, it turns out that even small interactions with various staff members such as saying hi to Seth or greeting teachers from years past in the hall greatly contributes to a sense of normalcy.

In hybrid learning, the opportunities for social inter-

action increase even more, in ways such as greeting friends and peers during passing periods and making small talk before class starts. Being able to interact with people outside of Zoom lends a small amount of optimism for a pandemic-free future.

With every return to in-person activities, there are safety concerns. However, from my observations as a Stable Learning Groups and now hybrid program student, safety measures have been implemented well and are followed closely by students.

After attending the first day of in-person instruction, it’s clear that the same level of safety is being maintained.

The only downside for me is that I’m missing out on all of the squirrel drama.

Despite the glaring differences from in-person instruction outside of a pandemic, the hybrid learning program is a major improvement from online learning in terms of quality of instruction and social opportunities. The only downside for me is that I’m missing out on all of the squirrel drama.

The Talon // 13

FEATURES

NAVYA SINGHAI

Print Managing Editor

The Moos family just bought a new Brother laser printer.

Why? Because for the past month, Los Altos High School graduate Kenan Moos, ’16, has been printing thousands of flyers nonstop to promote Black Lives Matter events. The family does apologize for all the paper used.

“The printer’s in my bedroom, so at night I can just hear whirr whirr birr. The printer pulls it back in, flips the page, nyerr nyerr nyerr,” Kenan said.

“It’s in my head.”

But Kenan isn’t just a private Kinko’s — he’s also the organizer of the Los Altos protest against police brutality on Friday, June 5, and a 2021 “Los Altan of the Year” for his activism.

14 // May 2021

ISABELLA BORKOVIC Guest Writer

“From Cute to Animal”: Facing Racial Discrimination Since Childhood

Since coming home to complete his junior year at the University of Oregon online, Kenan has been busy — so much so that he averages four hours of sleep a night, splitting most of his time between activism and summer courses.

Although he only recently became so involved in the BLM movement, Kenan is no stranger to racism and police brutality.

Ordinary activities such as playing catch outside his friend’s house and biking with an unbuckled helmet on Almond Avenue resulted in police officers harassing and even pointing their weapons at Kenan.

“I think it was going from sixth grade to seventh grade when everything changed — that was when I went from cute to animal in people’s eyes,” Kenan said.

As he got older, his interactions with the police escalated, especially o n ce

ELLI LAHDESMAKI Graphic Artist

he got his driver’s license. He’s been pulled over 23 times since — 15 of those instances in Los Altos. He was even questioned by the police while eating a hamburger in his car in the LAHS parking lot.

Even during a national movement against police brutality, Kenan’s encounters with police have persisted. While preparing for the protest against police brutality the day before — despite having coordinated with the Los Altos Police Department — an officer tailed Kenan while he walked the route.

Educating to Eradicate Structural Racism

All of Kenan’s experiences with racism have only fueled his motivation for social reform. As a founder of Justice Vanguard and member of Tha Hood Squad, he spends much of his time working with others to initiate change in the community.

Justice Vanguard aims to increase awareness about the systematic oppression of Black people by organizing protests and engaging in local politics, while Tha Hood Squad features media created by artists of color to positively influence the current narrative of Black and brown people in the news.

This extends beyond the media and into schools, as well. While a student at LAHS, Kenan was disappointed by the lack of positive representation of people of color and other minorities in his own education.

“I’m Jewish and Black,” Kenan said. “You know what I learned about myself in school? Holocaust, slavery — that’s it.”

From when Kenan started at LAHS to now, when his youngest siblings are seniors, the Moos parents have seen almost no changes in how the curriculum positively portrays either of their family’s cultural identities.

“If students feel that the only things they are hearing are negative — of oppression, slavery and the Holocaust — then clearly the school can do a better job of showing that were there so many heroes, so many great people to give students a chance to have pride in their ancestry and who they are,” Kenan’s father Kevin Moos said.

In another effort, Kenan created informative packets to educate specific local residents who have either publicly made racist comments or targeted Ke-

I’m Jewish and Black. You know what I learned about myself in school? Holocaust, slavery — that’s it.

— Kenan Moos

nan with racist statements.

Enclosed in the manila folder is a survey titled “Am I Racist?” (according to Kenan, if you got this packet, the answer is yes, you are) alongside articles and educational handouts. Despite his best efforts to improve the Los Altos community, Kenan still had to forego distributing the packets himself out of fear for his safety.

“My dad, my white parent, said, ‘I’ll drop it off so if she does call the police, it’s on me, not on you,’” Kenan explained.

Despite the national — even

global — attention on such racial microaggressions over the past year, this continues to be a reality for many Black Americans.

Kenan’s efforts have brought attention to racism at the local level, but permanent change on a larger scale has yet to be accomplished. He and other activists have travailed over the past year to leave an impact, so read about Kenan’s reflections in his own words.

Reflecting on the Past Year — How Much Has Really Changed?

KENAN MOOS Guest Writer

Good Morning!

The Drive for Change

The drive for growth and systemic reform continues in Los Altos almost one year after the murder of George Floyd. With an increased focus on education, I continue to fight with others to implement change.

Creating a lasting impact occurs in steps: awareness, education, reform, implementation. Marches and educational events over the past year have helped garner support for systemic change and spread awareness, yet we have seen only minor changes.

Uniting Our Communities

Social media has brought to light the devastating extent of pain and inequities that many marginalized communities face in our country. Seeing Black men and women targeted and killed by police, Latino men and children killed by police, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) hate crimes and killings and LGBTQ+ lives under attack has highlighted how much work there is to do. It is time to bring these communities together and use our collective voices

to fight for change.

This is not a fight we can win alone. We need our white neighbors to work with us to fight for systemic change. Our goal is to use the incredible strength of these different communities to bolster our fight for change that will protect human lives.

More importantly, our unification will help these different groups finally achieve equity in all facets of life.

When Black lives are under attack, stand up fight back! When LGBTQ+ lives are under attack, stand up fight back! When AAPI lives are under attack, stand up and fight back!

Our Efforts in Education

Justice Vanguard has been working to implement an ethnic studies curriculum at our local high schools and create a template that can be used in other districts. In the coming months, 2020 Los Altan of the Year Kiyoshi Taylor will lead the Justice Vanguard Education Group in the effort to implement the program for students at Los Altos High School. Ethnic studies would provide a holistic education, exploring the intricacies of culture

and the beauty of our diverse heritages.

It will teach students about the contributions of underrepresented groups and give a his-

Seeing my own people killed for solely existing is heartbreaking and is a fear we have to live with every day. There is a constant and persistent fear of attack. Sharing personal stories of abuse and mistreatment from police, schools and society is emotionally and mentally draining. This results in burnout. It is important that we take care of ourselves and be mindful of each other at each step we take moving forward.

Next Steps

torically accurate depiction as represented through racially diverse groups.

These next few months are crucial in holding our city officials accountable for their actions and making sure that they follow through on promises made towards systemic change. You can help create change in our community — find more information at justicevanguard. org. Let’s get to work!

Stay Beautiful, Kenan Moos

Burnout is Real.

“There is no one way to be Black in America, but there is one way we live while Black in America,” Jonathan Capehart said in his Washington Post Opinion.

“No matter our gender, age or socioeconomic status, we are viewed as threats. As a result, we live under siege.”

The Talon // 15

Baby Steps Toward Child Development in a Pandemic NAVYA SINGHAI

PARISA LARSON

LAUREN MORIMOTO

NATALIE WEI

For many children, playing with friends in the local park’s sandbox and perfecting pirouettes in their dance class has been replaced with countless hours spent staring into a screen. COVID-19 has forced people of all ages inside, but what does that change mean for children in key developmental stages?

Here’s what we’ve found after talking to Los Altos–based pediatrician Dr. Orchid Ghaffari, Foothill College child development instructor Maria Dominguez and Los Altos High School AP Government teacher Sarah Carlson about the effects of the pandemic on children.

Ghaffari has been in practice for 20 years; Dominguez received a master’s in education with a concentration in early childhood education, followed by 20 years as a preschool teacher, and now teaches classes about her field at Foothill; and Carlson is the mother of twins.

While talking to these various sources, we quickly realized how expansive the social and psychological effects of the pandemic are, but also that everyone’s experiences have been distinctively diverse.

“Two children living on the same block could have two very different experiences,” Dominguez said. “Those differences have everything to do with the adults they live with. Children are very sensitive and feed off of adults’ energy, so if there are financial pressures or a lot of conf lict in the home, it will heavily affect children.”

tance, I really look forward to the day when I can attend playgroups with my kids freely and bond with fellow parents in person,” Carlson said.

Through their limited outings, her children have gotten used to seeing people wearing masks and will still smile and engage with them, rather than shy away.

Yet, with less exposure to seemingly everyday activities like going shopping, they haven’t grasped the relationship between their toys and the objects they would see in the real world.

“They got a toy wallet with toy coins and credit cards, but they have no idea what it is because they have never

yet, so their world is pretty small.”

Carlson isn’t too worried about the pandemic’s lasting effects on her children, though, and predicts only small changes. One of her worries is that her twins might find their first time being left with a babysitter difficult because of their limited interactions with adults other than their caregivers.

“I hope that having the time to bond so intensively as a family this year will help them have a strong foundation in life and that the pandemic will mostly be over by the time they start forming lasting memories,” Carlson said.

Ghaffari confirmed that newborns and children under the age of two can develop all the social skills expected of their age group from their immediate family, but once they get older, it becomes imperative to introduce them to other inf luences and peers.

“Before starting preschool, children focus on parallel play, meaning that they get excited when they get to see each other, but then proceed to do their own thing,” Ghaffari said. “Preschool starts at two years and nine months exactly because that’s right at the age when children start actually playing together for a little while.”

Print Managing Editor

ac b

16 // May 2021

Senior Writer

Social Development

Considering how rapidly children grow — mentally, physically and emotionally — we have broken down the stages of social development in children by age to provide an in-depth understanding of how the behaviors, skills and thoughts of kids of all ages are affected by the pandemic.

Staff Writer

0–2 years

Due to their limited awareness of their surroundings, caregivers can fulfill the majority of social interaction required for the proper development of infants.

To gain an insight into the experiences and takeaways of a “pandemic parent,” we talked to AP Government teacher Sarah Carlson, a mother to 1-year-old twins who have been in quarantine for most of their lives. She’s found this pandemic to be simultaneously one of the most rewarding and isolating experiences to have had as a parent.

“It is a major transition to go through and while it is possible to have some conversations with fellow parents online or at a dis-

seen us pay for anything in a store,” Carlson said. “We don’t take them to many places because they can’t wear masks

Graphic Artist

3–4 years After the egocentric mindset of infancy, toddlers progress and develop a new social awareness through peer-to-peer interactions.

They learn how to effectively interact with other kids, make purposeful decisions and hone their language skills all through play.

“They’re learning to take turns and share their toys with other peers,” Ghaffari said. “Whether they’re building something together or just showing interest in other

portion of young kids’ growth is much more difficult to supplement in a virtual environment.

Ghaffari expects there might be long-term focus or attention issues as a result of distance learning, but said it’s difficult to know for sure as of now because of the short cycle of experimentation.

into adulthood less dramatic, as teenagers develop a more realistic mindset. After going through a global lockdown and being forced to grow up a little faster, life changes hopefully won’t faze them as much.

“As teenagers get older and things don’t go their way, they may start thinking, ‘At least it’s not a pandemic,’” Dominguez said. “Instead of being affected by disappointment, they might change their mindset to ‘All right, let’s just move on. We got this!’”

Return to School

people’s activities, they learn by imitating each other.”

Without their human peers, some isolated children have started mimicking the behavior of their pets, and parents have taken to TikTok to document these unusual experiences. One parent shared a video of her baby foregoing her hands and shoving her face into food like a dog. Another showcases a baby’s babble resembling barks more than human speech.

Although they will likely grow out of these “animalistic” traits, it’s a testament to children’s tendency to learn from their immediate surroundings, whether it be a parental figure or just their pet.

5–6 years Kindergarten exposes 5and 6-year-olds to longer, more sustained interactions with unfamiliar people for the first time — a step critical to their natural progression into elementary school. However, the development of social skills requires in-person interactions and already has a steep learning curve. This

“The students’ attention spans aren’t great while sitting in front of the screen, so teachers have modified the class schedule to include more breaks for them,” Ghaffari said.

It’s pretty common to see attention deficits from children in this age range, but Ghaffari advises parents to incorporate physical and creative activities such as building projects and coloring books into their at-home learning.

This change can help progressively boost the child’s attention span outside of class and prevent a lack of focus in the future.

13–18 years Although the effects of the pandemic may not be as immediately apparent on teenagers, young adults have also missed out on important milestones, like graduation and prom, that many have looked forward to throughout their childhood and high school years.

On the bright side, the obstacles faced during the pandemic may make the transition

Heading back to the classroom would allow children to see their peers and return to hands-on learning, but it’s important to consider the potential downsides. Beyond possibly spreading COVID-19, rushing the return process may lead to non-viral consequences such as anxiety or trust issues among students.

For instance, Dominguez’s sixth-grade nephew struggled with the return to school due to the unpredictability of another closure. A couple of days after his elementary school opened for in-person learning, students were sent back home because of a spike in COVID-19 cases.

“I would keep kids home,” Dominguez said. “Right now, they’re in a familiar place, and although lacking in interactions, it’s stable. If they go to school and somebody gets the virus, they’re back home for three weeks. It’s just constant disruption, which is more damaging for children.”

Moving Forward

It’s hard to know how the pandemic will affect children’s development in the long run. But living through such a life-changing year will most definitely teach them to accept and embrace change.

“Emotional development is one of those areas where you always continue learning because humans change and the world changes,” Dominguez said. “Children are re-

silient, and it’s amazing what they can go through. They’re forced into another level of maturity not necessarily because they chose that, but because that is their reality.”

Although the pandemic has dramatically altered children’s day-to-day lives for nearly a year, Dominguez, Ghaffari and Carlson are hopeful that children will come out of it healthy, with a life lesson or two.

“I try to reassure families that the most important thing is to keep them healthy right now and not worry so much,” Ghaffari said. “If we can still keep everybody healthy, then moving forward, the empathy, sense of community and connectedness will grow.”

Emotional development is one of those areas where you always continue learning because humans change and the world changes.

12 + 2 ——— 14 — Maria Dominguez

The Talon // 17

High Schoolers Navigate the the Pandemic-era Pandemic-era Stock Stock Market Market ROSE LIU Staff Writer

STELLA HUANG Graphic Artist

The content in this article should not be taken as endorsed financial advice.

The uncertainty of the pandemic economy has inspired thousands of amateur investors to enter the stock market. With the volatility of the market, both short- and long-term investments can yield thousands of dollars in revenue…or lead to complete financial ruin.

The Talon interviewed seniors Peter Budko, Eike Rehwald and Abigail Hagan about their experiences and takeaways as pandemic-era high school investors.

The Hype: Finding Gold Mines During the Pandemic To a high school student, working part-time at Teaspoon, getting free boba and earning minimum wage might sound like a pretty good deal. But imagine making a 2600 percent return on your stock investments in just a few weeks.

Last November, senior Peter Budko invested all his Teaspoon earnings and money borrowed from his broker into GameStop — a video game retailer whose stock (GME) plummeted at the beginning of the pandemic.

18 // May 2021

While Peter currently has a 1000 percent return on his investment, his peak return was that 2600 percent.

“As you can imagine, losing a 1600 percent return is not a great feeling,” Peter said when asked about his decision against selling the stock at its

“It’s been really entertaining to watch, but it’s a dangerous day trader’s dream,” Abigail said. “If you have the money, you can easily become rich off of the stock, [but otherwise,] it fluctuates so dang much every day.”

Peter said. “The hedge funds which shorted GameStop made a gigantic blunder. They made a mistake and should have been punished for it. Instead, they bailed themselves out of their error, cheating GameStop shareholders out of billions of dollars.”

From a social perspective, both Abigail and Peter deter-

Definitions A broker is any financial advisor that individuals hire to make trades on their behalf for a fee. Zero commission brokers are online applications that allow traders to buy and sell stocks without extra fees. peak. “I just try to keep in mind that thousands of people actually lost money, and millions more never even bought in.”

By keeping a close eye on GME’s trajectory following its first major price spike in January, senior Eike Rehwald also convinced his father to invest some side money into GME in early February.

Unlike Peter and Eike, senior Abigail Hagan missed out on purchasing GME at a low price point because she didn’t notice its potential early enough. While she does express some regret for not buying in on time, Abigail also recognizes the risk of investing in such a volatile stock.

ROSE LIU

The Dark Side: The Underlying Issues of the Stock Market While the GameStop drama is fascinating to follow, it’s helped Peter and Abigail uncover more serious issues about the American economic, social and political systems.

Due to his analysis of the console cycle, a pattern where a retailer’s stock spikes after the release of a new console, Peter was confident that the newly released PlayStation 5 console and the future board chair could save the company.

He believes that the hedge fund companies made the wrong decision to short GameStop.

“The GameStop fiasco is blatant proof that the market is rigged in favor of the rich at the expense of small investors,”

A hedge fund is a group of investors who use pooled funds to make high-risk investments. In the GameStop incident, many hedge funds decided to short the company’s stock because it steadily fell at the beginning of the pandemic.

A short is the opposite of a traditional investment, where investors bet that a company’s stock will fall rather than rise.

mined that while hedge fund companies involved in the GameStop Incident were at fault, individual traders were the ones blamed by the major news outlets. “[People buying into GameStop] are being portrayed as these bad guys who are doing terrible things to our beloved hedge fund companies and are breaking the stock market,” Abigail said. “That’s not the story I saw. They’re just trying to make a living for themselves, while doing a lot of good with their earnings. These people are just regular people.”

However, Abigail and Peter are mostly frustrated by the inaction of politicians to penalize those who were truly responsible.

“Our politicians make a big show with Tweets and congressional hearings, yet their ultimate response is flaccid and utterly ineffectual,” Peter said.

“The grip of the rich on our country and its institutions is so great that the biggest financial crime of the decade will be forgotten in a few months.”

The Journey and the Gain: Why and How Should You Invest?

High schools don’t typically teach students how to invest in the stock market, and it certainly isn’t a major topic of interest.

But, both Eike and Abigail were inspired by their fathers to begin independently exploring the stock market and making various investments.

“The first time I was interested [in investing] was two or three years ago, because my father had some Advanced Micro Devices and Facebook stocks,” Eike said. “I was [analyzing]the stocks on a weekly basis. As I got more invested at the beginning of this year, I started looking through different subreddits [to gain more insight].”

Even though Eike does not want to go into finance, he finds investing a beneficial hobby and hopes to apply the expertise he’s gained well into adulthood.

“Research is definitely important before you invest because you have to look at the upsides and downsides [of an investment and] weigh them against each other,” Eike said.

“Decision-making, critical thinking and conducting research are good skills to [develop].”

While they learned the basics of the stock market from their parents, Eike and Abigail hoped to expand

investing’s benefits and suggests it as a less risky but still profitable option.

“I buy something knowing it will go up,” Abigail said. “It’s a much less stressful process to let a trusted company accumulate wealth over the years and sell the stock at a high price years later.”

Seniors Eike Rehwald (left), Peter Budko (middle) and Abigail Hagan (right) have spent the past year diving deep into the stock market, including their investigations of the GameStop scandal.

their knowledge in their senior year economics class but were disappointed that the curriculum covered so little about personal finance.

“I took regular Economics this year, and it has a small bit on investing,” Eike said. “But it’s mainly just, ‘Hey look, there’s the stock market where you can buy stocks that can either go up and go down.’”

“Advanced Placement Microeconomics had [few] real-life applications,” Abigail said.

“Learning how to invest is essential in life because you want to retire eventually. If you make the right investments, you can potentially have that financial freedom.”

Abigail’s interest, investing money for retirement, is considered long-term investment.

Guided by her father’s experience, she realized long-term

Despite massive drops in stock value during the pandemic, Abigail predicted that essential industries will almost definitely recover and return investments once people inevitably require their services again after quarantine.

“I looked to the airline industries [at the beginning of the pandemic] because I knew eventually people are going to travel again,” Abigail said.

“These airline companies are too big and too global to ever shut down, so it was a pretty safe buy.

Then, I realized that airlines need oil, and I bought an oil stock too.”

But Peter disputes the extent of long-term investment benefits. He believes that high schoolers are able to tolerate more risky investments with the increased accessibility of today’s market. “[Long-term investment] is the lowest possible risk you could take in the stock market, and it will get you nowhere.”

Peter said. “For a nominal increase in risk, you could get a colossally greater reward.

Adults nowadays are stuck in the 90s, when tools [such as the internet and zero commission brokers] were not available to the average investor. High schoolers should definitely take some amount of risk.”

Despite Abigail, Peter and Eike’s different experiences and opinions on how people should invest, all of them agree that students shouldn’t wait until adulthood to start. So why use those five dollars to buy a Creamy Jasmine milk tea when you can put them in the stock market?

The Talon // 19

OPINIONS

It’s Time for Council Member Lynette Lee Eng to Resign KALEY KWAN Staff Writer

In every Los Altos City Council meeting since November of last year, Council Member Lynette Lee Eng has faced vehement cries for her resignation, following allegations of racism toward activist Kenan Moos, Los Altos High School ’16.

After four months of willfully ignoring these demands, Lee Eng, who has not responded to multiple requests for comment, finally agreed to engage in mediated discussion with Moos. That mediation has since been terminated. But it doesn’t matter: Even if it had occurred, no apology from Lee Eng would have been sincere.

It’s time for Lee Eng to resign.

The conf lict stems from the November 24 City Council

20 // May 2021

STELLA HUANG Graphic Artist

meeting, when Lee Eng voted Finally, to try and resolve the against a measure that would dispute, Moos reached out to increase police oversight by the City Council on Thursday, adding a third-party inves- March 4, to suggest a mediated tigator to review discussion racial complaints with Lee against the police I don’t think there’s Eng. The department.

Council, afany point in having a “She had promised ter promisconversation when she and continued to ing to iron wasn’t willing to for tell me that she supout the deported these issues four months. I don’t tails with on continual phone think any apology from him, sent her will be necessarily calls,” Moos said. him a list Minutes after she sincere. of potential broke her promise mediators — Kenan Moos and voted against the on Friday, measure, Lee Eng reMarch 19. ceived texts from Moos criticizPrior to the mediation, we ing her decision and expressing spoke with Moos. his disappointment.

“I don’t think there’s any After receiving and reading point in having a conversation Moos’s texts, Lee Eng defended when she wasn’t willing to for her vote in case “anything were four months,” Moos said. “I to occur to me or my family.” Her don’t think any apology from statement implies that because her will be necessarily sincere. of her decision to vote against What I’m looking for from her the measure, her family’s safety is an admission of wrongdoing was threatened by Moos. and guilt, as well as an apology Lee Eng’s comment reflects that’s both a public statement America’s implicit biases and put on the record and one sent internalized fear of Black men. to me signed by her.”

Despite the fact that Moos exAlmost a month later, during plicitly texted Lee Eng that his the April 13 City Council meetcriticisms of her vote were “no ing, it was announced that the way a threat of any kind,” Lee agreed-upon mediator had Eng chose to perpetuate this terminated the mediation. Aldeeply problematic narrative of though the reasons were not Black men as inherently dan- disclosed, mediators gerous, one that has resulted typically terminate a in police violence against inno- mediation if one or cent individuals. both parties are not reFor the past five months, Lee specting the process.

Eng has sat in silence. It is clear So what are the she was hoping the dispute facts? Moos initiatwould blow over and that peo- ed the mediation. ple would move on.

It failed. Given Lee

Eng’s past history of silence, it’s unlikely she will suggest anything else. Her months of inaction underscore how she views herself as innocent (and refuses to examine her biases), and how this mediation is all a PR stunt to get back in the community’s good graces.

Her lack of action speaks volumes about her character and what she truly stands for.

Her statement was racist and damaging, and she must be held accountable for it. The fundamental truth is that after so many months, an apology would inevitably be insincere.

There is only one thing left to do.

As Moos said, “She is not fit to serve. Lynette, resign.”

ANIKA SIKKA Staff Writer

I was in fifth grade during the 2016 presidential election.

My class was talking about the first presidential debate when my teacher said the only reason Hillary Clinton would win the debate: She’d cry and gain sympathy from viewers.

Even as a naive fifth-grader, I knew something about that comment was off. My teacher took an overused female stereotype and used it to discredit Clinton’s accomplishments.

These underhanded comments are not limited to fifthgrade classrooms, though. It’s something I see often in the media today.

When I scroll through my news feed, I see article headlines like “No, it’s not sexist to call Elizabeth Warren ‘unlikable’” as if being “unlikable” is a viable justification for sexism. Others such as “Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s makeup routine reflects the enduring power of lipstick” credit the congress member’s lipstick for her political success, taking away well-deserved attention from her many achievements in Congress.

It’s difficult for female politicians to be taken seriously, especially with media emphasis on superficial attributes. From criticizing Hillary Clinton’s pantsuits to Ocasio-Cortez’s lipstick, the media covers it all.

This critique is another way to isolate women in politics and further demean them by portraying them as less serious.

But sexism in the media goes beyond commenting on a woman’s clothes to representing women personally and not politically.

During the 2016 presidential election, articles with titles like “Hillary Clinton: Grandmother-in-Chief?” about how Clinton’s grandchild took away from her qualifications to lead disappointed and frustrated me because no one batted an eye when Senator Mitt Romney posed with his 18 grandchildren.

The fact that people were reading more about the meaning of her grandchild’s name than her policy proposals is disgraceful.

Because female politicians are underrepresented in the

ELLI LAHDESMAKI Graphic Artist

political field, many still do not think they “belong” in government positions.

When Ocasio-Cortez responded to congress member Ted Yoho calling her a “f *cking b*tch” with reporters present, headlines such as “Ocasio-Cortez delivers emotional floor speech slamming Rep. Yoho’s abusive language” clouded the speech’s impact.

Every time a woman simply speaks up, she’s labeled as emotional and is brushed aside. This makes it practically impossible for women to be seen on the same playing field as men. If a man had delivered this speech, the media response would have been immensely different.

Sexist practices are so ingrained in society that they slip by unnoticed. News outlets calling President Bill Clinton “Bill” is unimaginable, yet we have no issues calling former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton “Hillary.” Similar to how calling a teacher by their first name would be disrespectful, calling women by their first names implies that they deserve less respect.

Why do we target the personal lives of female politicians? Is it internalized misogyny or just institutionalized sexism?

While these questions might not have a clear answer, we have to ask them. And I get it, it’s tough to recognize that you might be discouraging women in politics, but self-awareness is the first step to concrete and sustainable change.

Whether it’s taking a few extra seconds to consider the impact of our actions or asking ourselves the relevance of a female politician’s personal life, it’s important to reflect. How are we contributing to sexism towards women in politics?

When we increase our self-awareness and question inherent practices, we clear the path for change. Although it may be uncomfortable, evolving from toxic mentalities like sexism and racism is an essential step to achieve equality.

So, to my fifth-grade teacher and anyone in the world who doubts a woman’s power: It’s 2020, not 1950, so wake up and start acting like it.

The Talon // 21

Why I Couldn’t Be Friends with a Trump Supporter ELANA EISENBERG Sports Editor

22 // May 2021

OLIVIA HEWANG Graphic Artist

I’m sure many of you can dential election is about more relate when I say that my In- than a few harmless disagreestagram and Twitter feeds are ments. It’s about more than flooded with passionate mes- politics. It’s about humanity.

So here comes the controsages from the whole political spectrum. But even in this versial statement: Because I seemingly endless sea of con- believe that this is an issue of morality and tent, the followbasic human ing statements rights far more caught my atten- Because I believe that than it is an istion: this is an issue of mosue of politics, “Yeah b*tch, rality and basic human I could not be [we can disagree] rights far more than it friends with a about pizza topis an issue of politics, Trump supportpings, not racI could not be friends er. ism.” with a Trump supporter.

Whether that “If you voted statement made for Trump, I want you want to cheer or angrily nothing to do with you.”

These quotes might seem a smash your keyboard in the bit aggressive. Divisive? Ex- comments section, I think the treme, maybe? Still, what I rest of this article is still worth find far more offensive are the a read. lackluster attempts at peace THE INTENT and unity posted by other soIt’s no secret that America’s cial media users: “After the elections are over, your neigh- political climate is extremely bors will still be your neigh- polarized, so much so that it bors.” “Vote for whomever, but often delays or prevents real always choose kindness.” Or, progress from being made in my personal favorite, “Trump our country. I’ve seen firstwon’t be there to ring up your hand how ugly the comments groceries; your neighbors will. can get on political social Biden won’t be there to fix your media posts, and I see where car or help you out with yard people are coming from when they post idealistic statements work; your neighbors will.”

I understand where these urging Americans to come messages are coming from, together and love one anothbut unfortunately, it’s not that er regardless of differences in simple. The internet discourse opinion or party affiliation.

Let’s look at the numbers. surrounding the 2020 presi-

According to a 2019 Pew Research Center study, 64 percent of Republicans said they saw Democrats as more close-minded than other Americans, and 75 percent of Democrats said the same about Republicans. Between December 2016 and September 2019, the percentages of major political party members who gave members of the opposing party a “cold” rating on a “feeling thermometer” scale increased steadily — from 58 to 83 percent among Republicans and from 56 to 79 percent among Democrats.

So, on the most basic level, I support the desire for a more unified nation. I would love it if this idealistic country were a realistic possibility, but I don’t see it happening today.

IT’S NOT ABOUT POLITICS It’s really not.

Here’s where I think it’s important to make the distinction between Republicans (or conservatives) and Trump supporters. To me, they’re not interchangeable terms. The establishment of groups like Republican Voters Against Trump, Republicans for Joe Biden and The Lincoln Project illustrates the opposition to Trump’s actions and policies even by Americans who had

previously aligned themselves with the GOP. Republicans tend to favor lower tax rates, increased military spending and free market capitalism, generally supporting “small government” over “big government.” While I disagree with some of these ideas, they’re not deal-breakers for me in a relationship; in fact, I have several friends and extended family members who align with more conservative beliefs. But, for me, Trump supporters are a different story.

If you voted (or would have voted) for Trump, you voted for sexism and misogyny. You chose to promote a man who has called women “horseface,” “dogs,” “Miss Piggy” and “Miss Housekeeping” and who has been recorded saying things like, “I just start kissing them” and, “Grab ’em by the p*ssy.

You can do anything.” You stand behind a man who has been accused by 26 women of various instances of sexual assault since the 1970s.

If you voted for Trump, you voted for racism. You chose to promote a man who publicly thanked a group of his supporters chanting “white power” and used the racial epithet “thugs” to describe people protesting peacefully against police brutality. You stand behind a man who, on live national television, refused to explicitly condemn white supremacy.

If you voted for Trump, you voted for discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. You chose to promote a man who barred transgender troops and military recruits from openly serving in the military, who denied US embassies permission to fly pride flags on their flagpoles and whose administration withdrew Title IX protections for transgender students.

If you voted for Trump, you did not “choose kindness” like those overly simplistic social media posts urge us to. You chose to promote sexism, misogyny, racism and discrimination, or you at least decided that they’re not deal-breakers to you. To me, they most definitely are.

In the end, it’s not really about Trump either. Sexist, racist, homophobic and transphobic people did not begin with the Trump administration, and they will not end with the Trump administration. In many cases, having a leader who so openly aligns with these characteristics has simply brought these people out of the woodwork and empowered them to share their hurtful beliefs with the world. Regardless of Trump’s existence, I wouldn’t want to build friendships with people that hold these beliefs, and I can’t in good conscience stand by a social media infographic that asks me to overlook these deal-breakers when so many millions of people’s basic human rights are at stake.

A SERIES OF CONCESSIONS First of all, I can understand why the current president’s successes may make him an appealing candidate. Some of his accomplishments while in office, such as the First Step Act and the Right to Try Act, deserve positive recognition. However, a few effective policies certainly don’t outweigh the damage he’s inflicted.

Regardless of what I think about current Trump supporters, I still strive to empathize as best I can. Voting disinformation is rampant, and many Americans find it difficult and confusing to make decisions when voting, especially if they have been surrounded by members of a particular political party for the majority of their

life. Whenever possible, I encourage others to form their own opinions through independent research and consideration.

And most importantly, while I don’t respect the beliefs of Trump supporters, I definitely don’t hate them. I’m willing to work and have conversations with Trump supporters, and I of course still believe that everyone is entitled to the basic rights of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” I hope that “love your neighbor” social media posts can ring true, in which everyone is guaranteed basic human rights and in which everyone can encourage others and raise their children to be empathetic, equity-seeking members of society. But Trump and his supporters aren’t working toward that vision.

A QUICK NOTE ON PIZZA TOPPINGS Just so we’re clear, I enjoy the occasional slice of pineapple on my pizza, and it’s not a deal-breaker for me if you disagree with me on that.

I’M ALMOST DONE Whether or not you agree with me, I appreciate you having read this article. I hope you’ve evaluated your personal values in some way, shape or form.

OPINIONS Let’s circle back to those first two quotes.

“Yeah b*tch, [we can disagree] about pizza toppings, not racism.”

“If you voted for Trump, I want nothing to do with you.”

Do I think these types of posts help to dismantle political polarization and increase unity in our country? Definitely not. Still, I think it’s just as, if not more, dangerous to push the narrative that, regardless of vastly different views on fundamental human rights, everyone should be friends.

In order to build that ideal nation of love, empathy and equity I think we all desire, it is crucial that we hold one another accountable for our opinions, rather than turn a blind eye to issues like racism, sexism and homophobia for the sake of friendship. So please, do your own comprehensive research, gain an understanding of your personal opinions and set boundaries that feel right for you.

And who knows? Maybe someday, those idealistic Instagram posts will come true, and Biden will come help me mow the lawn.

The Talon

The Talon // 23

OPINIONS

Does College Application Stress Even Lead to So-Called Success?

EMILIE ENSER Staff Writer

I could not be more excited to wrap up my high school career.

But as a junior preparing for college applications, my stress outweighs that enthusiasm. While I know I’ve worked hard to prepare for this next chapter in my life, societal pressures continuously remind me that maybe I haven’t worked hard enough.

I’ve been a good student my whole life. I’ve had faith that I would go far, that one day I would get into the college of my dreams.

My first mistake was believing those two are codependent.

Building the “perfect” resume has become the end– all and be–all, but that standard of perfect is often far too draining and general — individuality should be the priority.

Academics are at the core of college applications, but a 4.0 alone just doesn’t cut it anymore. We’re under the impression that competitive colleges are also looking for a lengthy list of extracurricular activities, volunteer hours and leadership roles. But you also can’t blend in with every other just-as-qualified applicant.

These standards are raised due to competition becoming increasingly difficult. So here I am, reflecting on my high school experience, thinking I should’ve just studied harder for that test, or never quit 24 // May 2021

ROSE LIU

Graphic Artist

my eight years of competitive we can do to “fix” the ever gymnastics. I should’ve spent increasing competition, a less time on my phone and change in mentality is crucial. more time saving the world, Colleges are inconsistent — because that’s what all the applicants often get accepted kids are doto more coming these days, petitive colleges right? and declined Building the “perfect” It’s a stressful from schools resume has become the mindset. And deemed more of I’m not the end-all and be-all, but a fit. We don’t that standard of perfect only one. always know As grateful is often far too draining what recruitas I am, there’s and general — individual- ers are looking a high price to ity should be the priority. for, but more pay for living importantly it in the wonderful state of Cal- shouldn’t matter. Passion ifornia. We are home to some is easily detectable in a stuof the most sought after pub- dent’s resume and essay, and lic schools: the majestic UCs. we are all better off pursuing They receive applicants from true areas of interests rather all over the United States than excessive activities we and the world, and the high- think we are expected to do. er out-of-state tuition those By no means am I encourapplicants pay have become aging less hard work and dedeconomically vital. Especially ication from students, nor during the pandemic, when can I honestly argue that we universities are losing fund- shouldn’t care what coling, this factor has made it lege we go to. But I harder for in-state applicants am encouraging a to get accepted.

This year especially, due to COVID-19, more students applied to top colleges in the 2020–2021 cycle. Harvard University’s number of applications were up roughly 42 percent from last year and their acceptance rate for Early Action was at an all-time low: 7.4 percent.

While there isn’t much

shift in attitude toward working hard in finding areas of interest, in working hard for yourself and not for others.

Today’s successful individuals come from a huge range of educational backgrounds, showing that where we go to college does not define our future. San Diego State University conducted a study showing that for most career paths, where someone got their education is inconsequential in their ability to find fulfilling work.

I don’t want to remember high school as the late-night breakdowns, but rather the friendships and memories made. We’re only teenagers once and at the end of the day, we have to remind ourselves that we shouldn’t want a college that doesn’t want us.

KAAVYA BUTANEY Senior Writer

EMILY ZHU

Graphic Artist

Content warning: mentions of sexual assault and rape.

I believe in feminism and I believe in the feminist movement. But I am tired of watching the same patterns play out time and time again.

Today’s feminism, fourth wave feminism, is defined by three intertwined phenomena: massive awareness, massive desensitization and massive complacency.

Here’s an explanation of the previous movements: The first wave was voting, the second wave was the right to work and the third wave was individual freedom. But today’s movement is defined not by a core belief but by a change in consumption.

Activism has taken to the virtual world, increasing awareness of events worldwide, not just in our little bubbles.

Let’s take the example of the #MeToo movement, a raging success in creating awareness and solidarity among women, but a failure in the big picture. There is no increase in convictions, victim blaming is rampant and only the most extreme of rape cases will get the jury’s votes.

And maybe the worst part? police at bars to try and keep We’re getting used to it. women safe.

We have immediate access to Sarah Everard was murderby all this information about all a policeman. the terrible things going on in And we are all so angry. But the world, and we’re paralyzed. what happened? The United It’s a term commonly known Kingdom still decided to pass as “analysis paralysis,” how too a hollow, callous policy. It’s much information destroys part of this pattern: awaredecision making. ness, rage, emptiness. No We are desensitized to issues, solutions. and yet we can’t do a thing. AfNot long after Everard’s ter you’ve read story after story murder, there was anothabout assault and er. On Tuesday, murder, the stoMarch 16, a white ries blur togeth- Women shouldn’t man named Rober. After you’ve have to roam the ert Aaron Long heard about went to three streets with pepper hundreds of hate different Asianspray and keys becrimes, hearing owned spas and about one hate tween their knuckles. massage parlors crime feels in- There is no girl or in Atlanta and consequential. woman I’ve ever met killed eight peoAnd that’s nor- who has ever felt safe ple, six of whom mal, although it in this world. were Asian womis tragic. en.

The same stories play out But who was surprised? These with different people. The murders came in the wake o f same things seem to happen r i s i n g hate crimes against over and over. The brutal Asian Americans. Only people murder of Sarah Everard on who weren’t Monday, March 3, was terri- pay i ng atfying and produced a massive tent ion to spike in activism related to historic patsexual violence. She did all terns of sexthe “right” things. She called ism against her boyfriend, wore bright Asian womclothing, stayed in view of en should’ve the cameras. And she was still been truly killed. surprised, In a famously ineffective re- as terrible as sponse, the United Kingdom that sounds. decided to deploy undercover Maybe my

biggest issue with complacency is the utter blindness we have. When you focus on the individual incidents, you miss the patterns. And I’m no better, to be perfectly honest with you. I’ve been oblivious so many times and it’s infuriating.

So what do we do? Women shouldn’t have to roam the streets with pepper spray and keys between their knuckles.

There is no girl or woman I’ve ever met who has ever felt safe in this world.

On a smaller level, we protect our friends. Maybe more importantly, we remember. It’s easy to forget, human even, but as things change and as new information emerges, we have to remember their names.

Sarah Everard. Hyung Jung Grant. Suncha Kim. Soon Chung Park. Xiaojie Tan. Yong Ae Yue. And so many names I don’t even know. If we are to move forward, we can’t forget them.

C U LT U R E

Taylor Swift suffers under the patriarchy — and also benefits from it. Here’s why.

KALEY KWAN Staff Writer

Anyone who knows me will tell you I am the biggest Swiftie there is. But Taylor Swift, pop icon and lyrical genius though she may be, is still human and has room for growth like everyone else. People seem to forget this, which is clear when examining the controversy around Swift and the recently released Netflix show “Ginny and Georgia.”

The show, which follows young mother Georgia Miller and her children Ginny and Austin as they settle down in a New England town, received backlash from Swift over a misogynistic joke in the first episode: “You go through men faster than Taylor Swift.” Swift’s response has led to a divide online between those who support her in responding to the joke and those who criticize her for the white feminism (feminism focusing on white women’s struggles and not the other forms of oppression minorites face) in her retort.

It is here wherein the problem lies: These two statements aren’t mutually exclusive.

Swift definitely faces misogyny in the entertainment industry. She has seen disproportionate amounts of slut-shaming and scrutiny over her relationships and her propensity for writing songs about them, while men like Ed Sheeran — who also writes breakup songs — are ignored.

Netflix’s joke becomes especially distasteful when you realize that they helped produce her documentary “Miss 26 // May 2021

Americana” in which she speaks specifically about that exact type of slut-shaming.

It’s not a good look for Netflix; as Swift says, “This outfit doesn’t look cute on you.”

But her response doesn’t look too cute, either. As someone with the privileges of being a straight, cis white woman, it’s problematic that after

Swift is a celebrity, not an infallible idol to be put on a pedestal. She can experience oppression and sustain other forms of oppression. the thousands of racist hate comments being left to the young Black actress Antonia Gentry (who stars as Ginny) for saying the line, Swift has yet to speak about it or tell her fans to stop. It’s rather telling that Swift only seems to use her influence when people attack her, but not others.

This isn’t the first time she showed a propensity for white feminism. Look to 2015 when Nicki Minaj complained about “Anaconda” not being nominated for the MTV Video of the Year Award by tweeting, “If your video celebrates women with very slim bodies, you will be nominated for vid of the year” and “When the ‘other’ girls drop a video that breaks records and impacts culture they get that nomination.”

Swift responded by saying, “I’ve done nothing but love & support you. It’s unlike

OLIVIA HUANG Graphic Artst

you to pit women against each other. Maybe one of the men took your slot.” This response to a critique that was not even directly about her derailed an important conversation about the underlying racism in the entertainment industry. It is also an example of Swift making herself the victim — a recurring theme that often comes up with white feminists facing intersectionality.

Swift is a celebrity, not an infallible idol to be put on a pedestal. She can experience oppression and sustain other forms of oppression. Her white feminism does not diminish the validity of the misogyny she suffers, and that misogyny does not diminish the detriments of her white

feminism. They coexist.

She, like everyone else, needs the opportunity to grow. It benefits no one to get #TaylorSwiftIsOverParty or #TaylorSwiftIsLovedParty trending, because both of these hashtags ignore the nuances of the situation. Instead of discrediting her own experiences with sexism, she should be given the constructive opportunity to learn about the ways in which she remains complicit in a patriarchal system of oppression.

You’re a Muggle, Harry!

ANIKA SIKKA Staff Writer

I’m not like other girls — I’m different: an outcast and a mysterious loner, if you will. I just don’t fit in with my peers and feel stuck in my current reality.

But recently, I’ve discovered an escape, a way to travel to my real home: shifting realities. It’s a complicated process, one that requires meticulous planning and execution. Most of the time I shift to Hogwarts, where I can be around the witches and wizards who understand me, unlike the muggles I go to school with.

To control my shifting process, I usually script out the details of my spiritual journey by writing out where I want to shift, my surroundings and how much time will pass while I’m there.

Then, I set up my environment so that it cultivates the spiritual energy necessary to shift realities.

I turn my Daybetter 65.6foot LED Bedroom Color Changing Strip Lights to Slytherin green (I’m edgy) and light some candles (not really because my mom said I couldn’t have fire in my room, so I just spray two ounces of my Bath and Body Works winter candy apple perfume), but tomay-to tom-ah-to.

I lie down in a starfish

position, my phone on my chest playing the soothing sound of Draco Malfoy’s heartbeat as I count down from 100. Us Slytherin girls love the sound of his heartbeat ...

By now, I hope you know I’m joking. I don’t care how Draco Malfoy smells, and this whole “shifting realities” thing creeps me out.

I want to be abundantly clear, the experiences described above aren’t mine, they come from the crazy videos I’ve seen on TikTok. This past year, I’ve been seeing people all over the internet claiming to have shifted realities to different fictional realms, most shifting to Hogwarts pretending to be Dobby’s long-lost relative or the love child of Hagrid and Professor McGonagall (yeah — just let that sink in).

Now, I’m not denying that people may have seemingly real-life experiences with alternate realms; this concept is directly related to transliminality, a psychological scale by which human brains can go beyond their consciousness. The key is that this process is controlled by the mind — and has nothing to do with transporting out of the current reality.

Plus, the idea of scripting

CEDRIC CHAN Graphic Artist

(writing down all your desires and believing they’ll come true) is directly taken from Hindu culture, and many people claiming to shift realities are taking a sacred Hindu ideal and using it as a mechanism to get people to believe their make-believe, stalker-ish stories for a couple of hundred likes. This gives the impression to many young viewers that Hindu culture is shallow, and relates it only to fulfilling fictional fantasies, which is disrespectful to the culture, its people and its sacred history.

It’s great that people are re-

discovering childhood treasures through the Harry Potter books, and as a Harry Potter fan myself, I’m not complaining. But while this shifting realities trend was funny at first, all the over-the-top fantasies are getting concerning and uncomfortable.

To all of the shifting reality believers out there: You haven’t actually taught Ron Weasley and Harry Potter to say “period sis” after every sentence, nor did you teach Professor Snape how to do the WAP dance. So pack up the make-believe and make a Wattpad account.

The Talon // 27

Accurate LGBTQ+ Representation Matters to the Gay Community

STELLA HUANG

STELLA HUANG

Think about your favorite gay characters. Your mind might turn to Cam from “Modern Family”, effeminate and f lamboyant.

Think of a lesbian and your mind might turn to Shane from “The L Word,” with a buzzcut and Birkenstocks.

I hate to break it to you, but the characters that have colored these stereotypes are more often than 28 // May 2021

not played by, directed by and written by straight people. That’s harmful.

In the past decade, there has been a push in the media for increased LGBTQ+ representation. And while there has been progress, storylines often center on white, cisgender gay men, with very little representation for bisexual people, people of color and trans-

gender people. The storylines that do exist can be plagued with stereotypes and feel inauthentic to the LGBTQ+ community.

I’ve kept my eye on LGBTQ+ characters and the actors that portray them since I realized I was a lesbian in 8th grade, and it’s abundantly clear that for real representation to occur, queer voic-

es need to be heard. They need to be acting, directing and writing representation in the media.

Take the Netf lix musical “The Prom.” Despite very mediocre reviews, I enjoyed parts of this movie, particularly scenes that centered around the main characters Emma and Alyssa, a lesbian couple fighting to attend a school prom to-

gether in Podunk, Indiana. without much substance.

The Broadway troupe that This disappointing trend f lies into Indiana aiming carries through into Huto help them attend prom, lu’s “Happiest Season,” a played by Meryl Streep, movie I absolutely loved James Corden and Nicole almost solely because it’s Kidman, is undoubtedly the first holiday romcom the worst part of the mov- I’ve seen that centers on ie, particularly Corden’s an LGBTQ+ couple. Krisoffensive (and definitely ten Stewart’s portrayal of not Golden Globe nomina- Abby was relatable, and tion–worthy) portrayal of she had unique character Broadway star traits outside Barry Glickof her sexualman. Corden, Corden’s portrayal of ity, which is a straight ac- Barry Glickman, how- so ritical for tor, plays up ever, is just a label. accurate repevery sassy A characterization r e s e n t a t i o n . and f lamAbby has a hiframed around the boyant stelarious friendreotype, not character’s sexuali- ship with John, going more ty, without much sub- played by Danthan a min- stance. iel Levy, and ute without meaningful saying “mother of God” in conversations with Riley, a played up “gay” accent. played by Aubrey Plaza.

In contrast, Alyssa and Plaza, Levy and Stewart Emma, played by Ariana all identify as LGBTQ+, DeBose and Jo Ellen Pell- which is clear in their man, are authentic, and character portrayals. I’ve depict the struggles of seen them all in intercommunity homophobia views, and at points in and a struggle with iden- the film, it really felt like tity without leaning into they were just playing stereotypes. Both the ac- themselves. To contrast, tors identify as queer, and Mackenzie Davis, who it really shows. LGBTQ+ plays Abby’s love interest actors understand their Harper, is a straight womcharacters struggles an. Her casting drew some and mindset in a way negative feedback, and straight actors never it’s understandable why. will, which adds nuance Her entire character arc to their performance. revolves around her parFor example, De- ents not accepting her Bose has openly spo- sexuality, and while the ken out about not lik- portrayal is by no means ing her fashion choices offensive, it’s pretty boxed in by her sexuality. one-dimensional. Harper “I’m dressing like me,” became annoying, so adshe said to PopBuzz. “I amant in staying closeted don’t subscribe to so- that she regulary ignored cietal norms, and I’m and lashed out at Abby, more than a label some- making her love for Abby one else gives me.” often feel nonexistent.

Corden’s portrayal of So while the movie was Barry Glickman, however, a romantic comedy, the is just a mask. A charac- love aspect of it felt far terization framed around more genuine from Stewthe character’s sexuality, art than from Davis. It’s

easier to convince an audience that you’re in love when you’re at least attracted to your costar, which is probably important in a romance movie.

There is a right way to cast. In HBOMax’s “It’s A Sin,” representation was even more important, as the story centers around the AIDS crisis in 1980s and 1990s London. It’s a situation the LGBTQ+ community is all too familiar with, and one that straight actors may not understand the gravity of.

That’s why Russell T Davies, the show’s creator, chose to have a queer casting rule, and as Davies puts it, it “echos off the screen.” Every actor playing a gay person is gay himself, and it’s sensational. Richie, played by Olly Alexander, is a promiscuous and spontaneous actor. Roscoe, played by Omari Douglas, is a loud and hilarious bartender and freelancer. Collin, played

by Callum Scott Howells, is a sensitive print shop worker. And Ash, played

by Nathaniel Curtis, is a

The tragedy in the series is heart wrenching, partly because of the acting and also because of Davies’s own experiences of living through the AIDS crisis influencing the direction of the show. caring and loving teacher.

Every main character, excluding their f latmate Jill, is gay, and while their sexuality impacts a lot considering the subject matter, they feel like unique, real people. The tragedy in the series is heart wrench-

ing, partly because of the acting and also because of Davies’s own experiences of living through the AIDS crisis inf luencing the direction of the show. It’s an LGBTQ+ show made by LGBTQ+ people.

Now I just want to make it abundantly clear: I don’t hate every portrayal of a gay character by a straight actor. I enjoyed “Love, Simon,” “Call Me By Your Name” and “Carol.” As a gay teenager struggling with identity, I honestly take what I can get.

But when gay actors play gay characters, the effect is noticable. The characters they play are multidimensional and feel authentic. After watching shows like “It’s A Sin,” I have higher standards for media centered around the LGBTQ+ community.

The effects of LGBTQ+ voices being heard in the media promote real representation. For shows that feature the LGBTQ+ experience, it’s important to have LGBTQ+ people in the writer’s room, like Daniel Levy for “Schitt’s Creek” and Kit Williamson for “EastSiders,” pushing boundaries and formulating genuine, relatable characters.

Accurate representation is the difference between a young LGBTQ+ person feeling accepted and feeling ostracized.

It’s what shapes the way straight people view the LGBTQ+ community, so it inevitably matters.

So please, script writers, directors and actors, do better. Not only does representation matter, authenticity matters. Create media with that in mind, and we’ll be heading in the right direction.

The Talon // 29

SPORTS

COVID-19 Cohorts: The Evolution of Sports Practices in a Time of Uncertainty Elana Eisenberg, Sports Editor | Marie Godderis, Photography Captain | Barrett Wong, Senior Writer Mira Sundar, Staff Writer | Rohan Vaswani, Photographer | Tomoki Chien, Guest Photographer

This past year has been one of constant changes and uncertainties, especially for sports teams. Athletes were used to months of rigorous practice under the blistering heat, long, music-filled bus rides to away games and thundering crowds under our own home lights, but the 2020–2021 lacked all of the above.

Instead of the staple of cheerleaders in dynamic pyramids, the cheer team can instead be seen doing planks in the hallways. Team sports, like football and field hockey, were limited to no-contact practices. Even traditionally distant sports, such as tennis and cross country, were impacted.

To illustrate the stark differences between pre-COVID-19 sports and the current environment, photographers documented some of these sports cohorts during their practices. Take a look at what we found.

October 2019

November 2020

CHEER

Prior to the pandemic, the cheer team performed at rallies, football games and competitions, jumping and twisting as they supported each other in tight pyramid formations.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and their current lack of a coach, the team currently works on conditioning and strengthening exercises led by Athletic Director Michelle Noeth.

November 2019

November 2020

CROSS COUNTRY

As a non-contact sport, the cross country team has been able to adapt practices to account for social distancing. However, traditional cross country races packed with hundreds of runners are unable to occur right now, so the team is limited to small training groups.

30 // May 2021

October 2019

September 2020

FIELD HOCKEY

The field hockey team grew accustomed to frequent games and intense competition between offense and defense. Now, with scrimmages and games shut down due to the pandemic, the team works on passing, shooting and strengthening drills at a distance.

September 2019

November 2020

FOOTBALL

Tackling and blocking are key parts of football, which is one of the highest-contact sports at Los Altos. To abide by COVID-19 guidelines, the team’s practices currently consist of non-contact drills such as passing and receiving, as well as strength training.

September 2019

November 2020

TENNIS

Although tennis is a socially-distant sport on its own, competitions and certain drills are affected by the pandemic. Currently, the team modifies drills for both singles and doubles players to ensure social distance between athletes.

The Talon // 31

You’re the Impostor — Water Polo Edition ANIKA SIKKA

NATALIE WEI

Staf f Writer

Graphic Artist

Red lights flashed across my opportunities during games? face as my hands clammed up, The answer was imposter synmy body almost paralyzed out of drome. terror. I was surrounded by what When I was the last person to can be described best as abso- finish the drills, out of breath lute chaos, and the only figures I while everyone else seemed fine, saw were different-colored blobs I convinced myself that I was an pacing from side to side. outcast on the team and that I This could easily didn’t even debe a description of serve to be there an intense game of in the first place.

Among Us, but it’s No matter which way I Even when I did actually the story swam, I felt like I was score a goal, I still of a different kind drowning in guilt and doubted myself of impostor. This confusion. and wondered if is how I felt during it was just sheer my very first game luck. No matter of water polo, and I argue that which way I swam, I felt like I it was more terrifying than any- was drowning in guilt and conthing InnerSloth could ever fusion. come up with.

Halfway through the season, it To be honest, I felt this way at got to a point where I would cry almost all of my wa- in my teammate’s car on the way ter polo games. No to water polo practice, dreadmatter how hard I ing my inevitable mediocrity. I tried, I could nev- considered quitting more times er be better than than I’d like to admit. After all, the players who had I thought, what’s the point of more years of experience than playing sports if I’m not even me. Throughout the season, I good? was never able to put a label on After what felt like a million what I was feeling. I was con- more tear-filled car rides, I finalfused — why was I so anxious ly found my answer in a game when I was getting more playing against our rivals — Mountain time and being given more View High School. I had just

COURTESY ANIKA SIKKA

The girls water polo team celebrates their community by wearing matching black spiritwear before their game. Over time, staff writer Anika Sikka has realized that being the top player on the team isn’t what sports is all about — instead, it’s the memorable moments with her teammates that truly matter.

32 // May 2021

missed my hundredth opportunity to score during the game, but the ball I had just thrown bounced back to me, giving me a second chance to score. To add gatorade while eating Cheez-Its to the pressure, I knew it was and actually enjoyed myself. Finally, I had found probably the last the answer to my shot before time question. ran out.

I realized you The red lights I honestly don’t rememand paralysis start- ber if I made the shot or don’t have to be an Olympic-level ed to creep up on not, but I do remember athlete to enjoy me again, but they how transformative that a sport. There is were drowned out so much more to by the supportive game was for me. a sport than simcheers from my teammates, both in the pool ply winning or losing — it’s the and on the bench. I honestly supportive moments that make don’t remember if I made the it all worth it. Sure, the car rides shot or not, but I do remember to games or the last penalty how transformative that game shot can still be stressful, but was for me. Instead of being I wouldn’t trade the bus rides held back by my self doubt and back, the locker room chats or worries, I was able to relax and the banter while conditioning talk about snacks with my team- for anything.

And now when I’m presented mates on the bus ride home.

For the first time in my wa- with a scoring opportunity or ter polo career, I actually had even the chance to demonstrate fun. I didn’t worry about the a drill, I’m able to effectively outcome of the game or how complete my tasks without wormuch I thought I sucked. I just rying about being sabotaged by sat there, sipped on my blue my nerves.

SPLIT LE APS A FLIPPIN

ALLISON BRICCA Staf f Writer

I pressed my toes into the beam and took a sharp breath in. Stay grounded. Trust it. In a moment of pure focus, the roaring arena was silent inside my own head. It was just me and the beam. Flipping into my dismount, I squeezed every muscle in my body. Boom. Stuck.

That was my best beam routine of the season. My arms shot up and I threw my head back, swelling with pride as I basked in the product of a full year of hard work, early mornings and bloody hands. But when I stared at the scoreboard, I quickly deflated. 0.3 points away from perfection.

Perfectionism: one of the worst things to be attached to and the hardest to let go of. I should know. I’ve been a gymnast for over eight years, and for so long, all I wanted was to be perfect, to get that “perfect 10.”

Perfectionism: one of the worst things to be attached to and the hardest to let go of. I should know. I’ve been a gymnast for over eight years.

Being put in front of a judge and summed up by a number really does something to you.

Sure, gymnastics has some elements of traditional team sports like providing a support system, but you take that number on alone. There’s no team to take the fall with you.

G TH

E TA B

ND SU

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OLIVIA HEWANG

N PERFE

S D R R F BOA

SPORTS

CTIONISM

Graphic Artist

You can’t blame an imperfect score on another teammate or a bad pass. The weight of failure falls on your shoulders and your shoulders alone.

But with this fear of failure also comes the thrill of success.

Growing up, I tried a number of other sports — soccer, softball, basketball, swimming, dance — but none of them had that danger, that spark that I craved so badly. To this day, the adrenaline rush of standing on a four inch wide beam and chucking a standing backflip energizes me more than anything else.

For years, I just enjoyed the thrill of the sport and didn’t take practice too seriously. I was a steady person, supported by a strong set of edicts that I was constantly fed during training.

Trust yourself. Shut up and work.

Be a good teammate. Don’t be dramatic. And most importantly, be perfect. It took me a long time to let go of my perfectionistic views on gymnastics, and one of the biggest things that helped me with that was the discovery of another passion: surfing.

I remember the first time I caught a real wave. As it carried me forward and I wobbled to my feet, it felt like a huge hand was sweeping me through the water. After complaining about my tired arms and the saltwater in my eyes during the whole paddle out and nearly giving up, just that one wave made the whole

experience worth it. Even so I never felt self-conscious of my though gymnastics remained body or my ability. As I returned my first priority, the days I to the beach again and again, full spent on my board taught me of excitement, I also found myself that I could enjoy something going back to the gym with a new while having absolutely zero sense of joy and purpose. I was pressure to be finally able to foany good at it. cus on my own imFor once, I didn’t I was finally able to focus provement without have to be in on my own improvement comparing myself control of every to my teammates single variable. without comparing myor letting scores In fact, I couldn’t self to my teammates or define me. be. I couldn’t letting scores define me.

There will nevcontrol the choper be an absence py little waves that crested on of perfectionism in gymnastics; top of my board or the wind that’s just not how the sport is slapping my cheeks. The wave built. But I’ve learned that, just had the power; I just had to go as I embrace the uncertainty of along with it. each crashing wave, I can emOut in the open ocean, I wasn’t brace the thrill of every soaring scanning the horizon for score flip unburdened by the numbers cards or analyzing the way that that are bound to follow. And my toes didn’t curl to a perfect the occasional fall doesn’t mean point. I wasn’t comparing myself I’m a failure. It just means I’m to the people around me, either, human.

The Talon Talon////2133

Sports and Politics BARRETT WONG Senior Writer

ANIKA SIKKA Staf f Writer

MIRA SUNDAR Staf f Writer

NAOMI ICHIRIU Graphic Artist

Often, sports are viewed solely as a form of entertainment and fun. But that isn’t all they’re good for. Sports and politics have become increasingly intertwined, with popular athletes and major organizations speaking out about various social and political issues. Here are some of the most significant events involving sports and politics throughout the past year.

Texans and Chiefs: Linking Arms and Sparking Controversy Instead of returning to the turf after a summer full of patriotic barbecues and family vacations, the National Football League (NFL) began their 2020 season after months of demonstrations, protests and riots. The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement spread across America this summer and all eyes were on the nation’s public figures — including professional athletes — to see what they would do in response to the social and political unrest.

On Thursday, September 10, players from the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans came together before their game to show their solidarity with the BLM movement, standing together and offering a moment of silence for those killed due to police brutality.

“It’s really not about the flag,” Texans head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien said during the post-game conference. “It’s about making sure that people understand that Black lives do matter and that there is a systemic racism problem in this country. And so that is what the players decided to do.”

After the national anthem finished playing, the two teams 34 // May 2021

joined at midfield, linking arms in a show of unity for the BLM movement. Players also showed their support by wearing stickers on their helmets of the names of those recently killed due to police brutality.

However, not all spectators received this gesture well, with many booing as the two teams emerged on the field. Some previous NFL fans complained that they didn’t want football to be political and that, after this incident, they wouldn’t be supporting the NFL.

It’s about making sure that people understand that Black lives matter and that there is a systemic racism problem in this country.

— Texans Head Coach and General Manager Bill O’Brien

“This movement is a war tactic in this political chess match,” former fan Leon Shepard commented on a YouTube video.

While many fans expressed their disappointment with the NFL, others commended them for taking a stance.

“So beautiful!” Texans fan Ana Pérez Mackenzie commented in response to a Twitter post by the Texans. “At the end of the day racists will be racist but the NFL and Chiefs are on the right side of history!”

Trump and Sports: A Partnership Now Divided Historically, it has been an honor for the president to attend sports competitions; it was representative of the proud patriotic values Americans hold dear. However, after the Capitol Hill riots that happened on Wednesday, January 6, many individuals and organizations began to reconsider their association with former president Donald Trump.

The first, and arguably the biggest, of Trump’s partners to cut ties with him was the Professional Golfer’s Association (PGA). On Saturday, January 9, the PGA of America announced that they wouldn’t be hosting the 2022 PGA Championship — one of only four global golf men’s championships — at Trump’s National Golf Club in Bedminster, N.J. “We find ourselves in a political situation not of our making,” CEO of the PGA of America Seth Waugh said in an interview with ABC News. “Our feeling was that given the tragic events of Wednesday, we could no longer hold it at Bedminster.

The damage could have been irreparable. The only real course of action was to leave.”

This wasn’t the first time the PGA of America made a decision like this. Back in 2015, they chose to relocate the PGA Grand Slam of Golf at Trump’s Golf Club in Los Angeles after he made degrading statements about Mexican immigrants. Similarly to this prior incident, both Trump and his organization were saddened and upset by the decision.

“We have had a beautiful partnership with the PGA of America and are incredibly disappointed with their decision,” a spokesperson for Trump’s golf club said.

Golf wasn’t the only sport that didn’t take kindly to Trump’s actions. The NFL’s New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, a longtime friend and supporter of Trump, was set to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Thursday, January 14. However, on Monday, January 11, Belichick chose to decline this offer.

“Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for our nation’s values: freedom and democracy,” Belichick said.

“Remaining true to the people, team and country I love outweighs the benefits of any individual award.”

Broken partnerships like these show how impactful the president’s actions are on the sports world. Like everyone else, many members of sports communities across the country are

also United States citizens and thus have their own political opinions — which can change in an instant. While it’s unclear as to how President Joe Biden’s actions will change our nation, the sports community will be watching him every step of the way.

Strike Three: MLB Takes Stance on Georgia Election Laws For years, athletes have been taught to “keep their heads in the game” and not get distracted by external matters. However, there’s a point where athletes

are often pushed to break their giving food or drink to voters silence and speak up in times waiting in line. of political turmoil — a point The law has sparked national Major League Baseball (MLB) outrage, as many people predict reached on Friday, April 9. that the restrictions will negaMLB commissioner Rob Man- tively impact voter turnout and fred announced that MLB had suppress minority votes. Presdecided to relocate the All-Star ident Joe Biden also “strongly game from Truist Park in Atlan- supports” the relocation of the ta, Georgia, to Coors Stadium in game, according to an interview Denver, CO, in a with ESPN. public display of Despite major their disappointbacklash, Kemp ment with the new I want baseball to just stands by the law, Georgia election be about baseball. But at arguing that the law. The new law, some point, you do need decision to move signed by Georgia to take action and fight the All-Star game Governor Brian was founded on Kemp, restricts for what’s right. “liberal lies.”

— senior Colby Cook voting in Georgia “I will not back by complicating down,” Kemp the process of absentee voting wrote in a tweet. “Georgians will and shortening the runoff pe- not be bullied. We will continue riod. The law also prohibits all to stand up for secure, accessipolitical organizations and some ble, fair elections.” nonpartisan organizations, deKemp won’t back down, but pending on their physical dis- neither will MLB or athletes tance from the polling site, from in general. While many local

athletes use sports as a mechanism to escape the somewhat dreary nature of our nation’s political climate, they’re starting to recognize why sports organizations are speaking out.

“I want baseball to just be about baseball,” Los Altos High School senior Colby Cook said.

“But at some point, you do need to take action and fight for what’s right.”

Conclusion Time and time again, popular members of the sports world have been able to create major change beyond the sports they play, both on social and political levels. As America continues to evolve and more controversy is brought to light, there’s no doubt that sports will continue to have a tremendous influence over the complicated issues that exist in our society.

The Talon // 35