The Mancunion - Issue 3 by The Mancunion

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Issue 3 / October 25th 2021

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Girls Night In : Anti-spiking campaign calls for club boycott

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

2 Contents

25. Where To Catch Theatre in Manchester

Page 19 6. Stepping Up Drug Awareness

31. Creative Submissions

Page 16

Page 31

Page 5

Page 17

Page 15

30. The Crystal Maze Experience Page 25 Page 9

22. Billy Lockett Contact us Editor-in-Chief: Jess Walmsley mancunion.editor@gmail.com Managing Editor News & Current Affairs: Ella Robinson Managing Editor Michal Wasilewski

Culture:

Print Editor: Clem Lawrence Online Editor: Sophie Berkley

Head News Editor: Archie Earle Deputy Editor: Shikhar Talwar news@mancunion.com Co-Science & Technology Editor: Sam Bronheim & Emma Hattersley Investigations Editor: Joe McFadden Features Kenny

Editor:

Serafina

Page 29

Deputy Features Editor: Steffie Banatvala

Film Editor: Benjy KaluberGriffiths

Food & Drink Editor: Izzy Langhamer

Opinion Editor: Annie Dabb Deputy Editor: Gemma Brown

Fashion Editor: Alex Bikard Deputy Fashion Editor: Zahra Mukadam

Theatre Editor: Jay Darcy

Sam Bronheim, Anja Samy, Jess Walmsley, Ella Robinson, Mariam Hussain

Books Editor: Aileen Loftus Deputy Books Editor: Ava Innes

Marketing Team: Conrad Pope, Eleanor Fisher, Jimena Gonzalez, Martina Ferrara, Camille Garret Follow us @themancunion on Instagram

Music Editor: Reece Ritchie Deputy Editors: Sarah Taylor & Jack Greeney

Beauty Editor: Alice Henderson Sport Editor: Arsh Asthana

Sub-editors: Elinor Burt, Katy Bray, Naziha Mardem-Bay, Florrie Evans

Lifetsyle Editor: Erin Botten

Food & Drink Editor:Katie Hourigan

Designers: Emily Turvey, Jonno Hadfield, Roisin Haver,

3 News

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

The removal of Automatic Extensions from the University’s Assessment Pledge The Student Union stand firmly against the University on removing Automatic assessment Extensions Shikhar Talwar Deputy News Editor

he University of Manchester (UoM) has announced they are removing students’ right to ‘automatic extensions’ after a review of the assessment pledge. The SU Executive Team are fighting for these extensions to continue. What was the University’s 2020/21 Academic Pledge? Last year the University had accepted the fact that Covid-19 had sent the world into “extraordinary circumstances.” Hence, they deemed it important to make a 5-point assessment pledge with the support of the SU executive team. The five points included: • Automatic Extensions: giving every student the option to push two of their individual coursework assignments back by a week. • Simplifying Mitigating Circumstances: removing the previous requirement of needing medical evidence to qualify for mitigating circumstances. • Moderation in line with the previous years: make sure the marks for the academic year equal to before covid. • Regulation Changes: extending the “boundary zones” by 1%. For example, to be considered for a distinction students earlier needed to get 68% but now it has been dropped to 67%. • Waiving of re-sit fees: in case a student needs to resit their examination, they can now do so without paying extra. What changes are being made to the 2021/22 academic year? This year, UoM has put all these points into review. Following several meetings between the SU Executives, Vice Deans of the

Photo: Andy Waddington@TheMancunion

Faculties and the Vice President for Teaching and Learning, the University of Manchester have announced the continuation of four out of five aspects of the assessment pledge, but not automatic extensions. Students were informed of the discontinuation of the automatic extension policy in an email sent to all students explaining that the policy wouldn’t return this semester due to “mixed feedback - with many not finding it to be an overall helpful measure.” The SU executive team are firmly against the removal of automatic extensions but have suggested the University has been a “brickwall” when addressing this, having made up their mind on removing the extension. Why are Automatic Extensions deemed important by the SU? Melody Stephen, General Secretary has said Humanities students will be facing the biggest brunt of this ruling, as the University currently takes three weeks to respond to their mitigating circumstances request. This is despite the fact Humanities is the largest school in the University. UoM have sought to address this by reducing the mitigating circumstances process from 3 weeks to five days. Last year’s automatic extension, however, acted as a safety net for students, allowing, in the University’s own words for students “to choose how to resolve any challenges arising from deadlines bunching up.” This was the case for many of the students we spoke to, with students who had essays due within a week of each other using the automatic extensions to give them both “an appropriate amount of focus”, important as they need “good grades” to apply to

study abroad. Students with anxiety also found the automatic extensions useful to relieve stress. Automatic extensions also reduced the mental toll of applying to mitigating circumstances and were especially useful to disabled students. UoM is seeking to do this instead with a reformed mitigating circumstances process that has removed proof requirements such as mandatory death certificates. However, the SU execs are not confident that the university will make the process as easy as it has seemingly been described. Students also felt that keeping the automatic extensions allows them to protect their privacy and use the extensions when needed even if it was not deemed as a ‘mitigating circumstance’ by the university. For example, the current UoM guidelines state mitigating circumstances can be used for “The death or serious illness of a family member or close friend.” One student we spoke to used their automatic extension because their friend’s father had died, and they wanted to be there to support them. The SU executive team told the Mancunion that they have tried to make attempts on compromising with the University. Yet again the university has stuck to removing the automatic extension. Miguel the Education Executive Officer commented, “The University is not at a point where mitigating circumstances are enough to support all students. Automatic extensions are a safety net to ensure students are allowed to keep personal matters private whilst they work through them.

“Until the University has improved its system for reporting mitigating circumstances which enable students across campus from all demographics to report an issue, automatic extensions are still highly necessary.” “I fully understand that the automatic extensions won’t be a suitable process forever however whilst we are still in the middle of a pandemic, I personally don’t feel comfortable with the removal of the choice to automatically and privately extend a deadline.” What can students do to protect the automatic extension? The use of these extensions in the previous year just shows how much the students felt a need for them. The SU executive team have asked students to fill out a petition form. This form asks students whether they think automatic extensions should be kept and if so then why? Along with this, Executives have asked students to comment on posts, DM them or email if they have any opinions on the matter. The execs wish to show this information to the University and tell them why keeping the extensions is in the best interest of the students.

4 News

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

SU opens itself to student referendum for major reforms The Manchester Student Union is to open itself up to a student vote on part-time and full-time roles

Archie Earle News Editor

he Students’ Union (SU) has just set into action a major overhaul of how the executive body will run. Responding to a survey conducted earlier this year, the SU will transform the positions currently occupied, giving students at the University of Manchester (UoM) the chance to choose between two different systems. The referendum is a chance to have your say in the shaping of the executive officer structure and have a greater understanding of the running of the student body.

Your priority issues: Option One

In a report provided to The Mancunion, the Students’ Union said that the first option was provided in order to have ‘more clarity and prominence of responsibility.’ This option would have eight full-time roles in the following:

• Union affairs • City and Community • Wellbeing and Liberation • Activities and Culture • Humanities • Biology, Medicine and Health • Science and Engineering • Research These branches would prioritise the issues in these roles and would run the association. This option would also see part-time officer roles in Women, BME Students, LGBTQ+ Students, Disabled Students, Trans Students, Humanities Faculty, BMH Faculty, Science and Engineering Faculty, Post-Graduate, and International Students. These roles would involve running a committee that would seek to gain representation from the groups they would oversee.

Your Communities: Option Two

The second option has the devolution of decision-making in mind, allowing more

All you need to know about the Part Time Officer Elections

“

This is a great opportunity to meet new people who resonate with your passions, gain a deeper knowledge of the Students’ Union and advocate for the issues you stand for on a campus-wide platform.

‘ground-up’ decisions. This option would be student-oriented and would implore students to be involved with high-level SU affairs. There would be 6 full-time roles: • Union Affairs • City and Community • Wellbeing and Liberation • Activities and Culture • Taught and Research. These positions would have some responsibilities delegated to the part-time officers. The part-time roles would be paid and would open collectives where any student could join to ensure that all roles are being supported. These roles would be: Women, BME Students, LGBTQ+ Students, Disabled Students, Trans Students, Humanities Faculty, BMH Faculty, Science and Engineering Faculty, Post-Graduate, and International Students. The main differences are more full-time executives and fewer part-time executives in the first option, compared to the second. With the desires and preferences of students in mind, the Students’ Union hopes that students will have

a larger role in the future relationship between the Students’ Union and the student population at Manchester. The two options follow a survey conducted by the Student Union in which 600 students were surveyed, 20 academic staff and the 20/21 and 21/22 Student’ Union executive team. The survey revealed that no role could be explained by more than 9% of respondents, suggesting that the knowledge of SU roles among the student population is limited at best. The top 3 issues that students wanted to be prioritised were: ‘Value for money/tuition fees’, ‘Mental health and well-being’ and then ‘Online learning’. The resulting proposal will be fully implemented in the 22/23 academic year, with new Exec Team roles being elected in March. You can take part by voting on the Students’ Union website from 10am on Monday 25th October, with voting closing at 5pm on Thursday 28th October.

The position of becoming a part-time officer at the SU has now opened up and this is all students need to know about it

f you want to make sure that students have a good time at the University of Manchester and be a part of implementing positive changes, being a Part-Time Officer(PTO) can ensure that. The nominations for being a PTO are now open and here is all you need to know about it. There are 7 different roles available to be a PTO, and around 50 positions are up for grabs. These include: • 10 Liberations Officers: who represent people from LGBTQ+, BME or other marginalised backgrounds. • 12 Faculty Officers: who communicate with course reps in their faculty to improve students experience. • 7 Access Officers: who represent student parents and mature students, who are often categorised ‘non-traditional’ students. • 6 Community Officers: who represent people living in different areas of Manchester

such as Rusholme, Fallowfield and City Centre. • 1 Ethic and Environmental Officer: who campaign for sustainability on campus. • 1 International Student Officer: who work with the International Exec Officer to improve international students’ experience • 12 NUS Delegates: who represent Manchester Students’ Union’s members at a national level, attending the NUS’ Conference. The candidates standing for PTO will receive in-person training on the topics of public speaking, campaigning, senate and representation. Hence, this training gives students the chance to learn and advance skills in key areas. An SU spokesperson stated, “This is a great opportunity to meet new people who resonate with your passions, gain a deeper knowledge of the Students’ Union and advocate for the issues you stand for on a cam-

pus-wide platform.” The nominations opened up on the 8th of October and are open till the 22nd of October at mid-day. On the 22nd of October itself, the candidates will be given a briefing on what would be expected of them. Following this, on the 25th of October, the campaigning will commence and the voting would open. On the 27th of October, the students will get a chance to meet the candidates in-person and will get to ask them questions. Finally, on the 28th of October, the voting would be closed. The results will be announced on the 29th of October on the Student Union website. If there are any queries students can email the SU’s Democratic Engagement Coordinator, Stefanie Cooper (stefanie.cooper@manchester.ac.uk) or the SU elections account (suelections@manchester.ac.uk). This is a great opportunity to participate in university affairs and can get you more invested in students’ day to day life.

Meet the Exec Officers!

Camila

Meet Camila, your Activities & Development Officer. She is the go-to support for any student-led activity on campus. Talking to

Emily

Emily is your Liberation and Accessibility executive officer, here’s everything she’s been up to so far: C u r r e n t l y, Emily is working on

Camila, we found out a little about how she spends her day and her greatest achievements so far as an exec officer. What are you currently working on? “I am working on quite a few mini projects at the moment from a training programme for the SU venues staff designed by specialist sexual violence specialists trainers to ensure all staff know what to say or do, and how to look our

a number of projects including campaigns on Decolonise UoM and working on the ‘Girls Night In’ boycott of nightclubs in Manchester due to the rise in drink spiking incidents. She is really optimistic that it can

Miguel Your Education Executive Miguel can be spotted walking around the Students’ Union wearing his classic dungarees! Miguel can handle his caffeine by having up to three coffees in the morning to keep him alert in the important series of meetings he has been attending to work on the UoM assessment pledge. His current priorities are meeting the new faculty officers and figuring out how to best work together. Miguel was working for automatic extensions to be implemented this semester for students however the University decided to discontinue the policy. You can read more about this and Miguel’s comments on page 3. Miguel’s biggest achievements so far are getting exam re-sit fees waived forever alongside removing the need to present a death certificate for mitigating circumstances surrounding bereavement. Finally, soundtracking Miguel’s day is October Sky and Jaquelin du Pre’s recording of Elgar’s cello concerto!

for customers and each other. It is aimed at all staff who work within the venue, including security and door staff. I am also part of the planning team for a physical ‘Girls Night In’ in support of the boycott of nightclubs in Manchester protesting the drastic increase of spiking reports.” Biggest achievement so far? “It was amazing to see societies advertise ‘Try Before You Buy’ activities over the course of Welcome Week. The

other day I read a stat that over 7,000 students had signed up to the scheme which was amazing considering we had such a short turnaround time after our training induction was complete to get this going before students arrived on campus. I’m really grateful to all the staff members across Events, Marketing and Societies who were so helpful and patient with all the questions I had along the way.”

push for some tangible changes to the way bars and clubs operate. She is a;so working to enhance communication with the student body in order to be as transparent as possible.

Julia

Julia is your Post-Graduate Officer working on PG teaching and learning, mental health and student support, career sup-

Melody

port, financial support and student experience. She is currently working on arranging a Postgraduate Week for the beginning of Semester 2, which would include topics like mental health, employability, social events, society events and student parent & carer events. She is

Jas

We caught up with Jas, your Women’s Office. They spoke to The Mancunion about their progress in the role so far … What are you currently working on? “I would say that a lot of the execs this year have overlapping priorities which allows us to work together on certain projects. I’ve been spending a lot of my time focusing on accessibility in education and accommodation in response to safety concerns.” Biggest achievement so far? “Achievement wise, I am really proud of myself completing my Masters degree and within my role, definitely the amount of wine the team managed to smuggle out of a formal dinner with the Senior Leadership Team!”

also working with the Postgraduate Association, International Society and the SU Advice Centre to try and get more support for Student Parents and Carers, as well as planning social events where they could bring their children with them. Julia worked alongside the Educa-

Frazz

tion Office Miguel in asking the university to keep the automatic extensions policy. Although the university decided to remove the policy, Julia feels as though it was a great example of how she could work in the future on education amendments and goals.

Joana

6 News

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Girls Night In campaigner groups are calling for a boycott of clubs on Wednesday 27th October to protest spiking Anja Samy Editorial Advisor

irls Night In campaign groups have sprung up across the country, calling for a boycott of clubs next week in protest of the continued issue of spiking. The campaign was founded partially in response to sinister reports of spiking by injection in the past few days in Edinburgh, Dundee and Nottingham, alongside the ever-present fear of drink spiking faced by party-goers on nights out. The exact date of the boycott next week varies form city to city, with Manchester’s campaign group opting for Wednesday 27th. Over the past few days Girls Night In groups have cropped up across at least 25 cities all around the UK. In a post on the Girls Night In Manchester Instagram page, campaigners stated: “Along with many cities in the

UK, we are organising a boycott of all clubs in Manchester to demand that spiking is taken seriously. “We will use the boycott to demand that Andy Burnham and Greater Manchester Combined Authority as well as club owners take spiking and sexual assault more seriously by taking tangible measures such as funding antispiking devices in all clubs and bars, a Good Night Out Scheme, and an awareness campaign targeted at men.” Girls Night In Manchester branch was founded by University of Manchester SU Exec Officers, in response to the growing movement. Alongside the boycott, some campaigners have published a petition which calls for the government to make it a legal requirement for nightclubs to search guests on entry for weapons and other harmful items. The petition was started by Hannah Thomson, a graduate of Edinburgh Napier University. In a comment issued to Brig News,

Hannah explained that her disgust at the recent development of spiking by injection is what motivated her to start the petition: “How are we even getting needles into nightclubs like how is that happening? How are we allowing that to happen? Then I started thinking we get searched going into gigs and festivals so, why not nightclubs?” Some campaign groups, however, including the Manchester branch of Girls Night In, have released statements encouraging people not to sign this petition for mandatory searches, in favour of more comprehensive demands for local government and night clubs. In a post to their Instagram, Girls Night In Manchester said that they “do not endorse increasing such powers for security as it would have a negative impact on multiple sections of our community, particularly Black people.” “We are working on lists of demands from local government

and club owners, and are also working together with other Girls Night In groups on demands from national government. Please share these once they are published rather than the petition.” Girls Night In Manchester have spoken out against the petition for increased searches by nightclub security in a post on their Instagram. Girls Night In groups hope that their boycott of nightclubs and bars will “ensure the issue of spiking is taken seriously”. On Instagram, organisers of the Edinburgh campaign wrote: “Girls should not have to feel unsafe and uncomfortable to go out and enjoy themselves. “Together we can make a change.” Girls Night In Edinburgh released a statement addressing concerns about the gendered language of the movement. Some people have raised concerns in the comments of campaign posts about the

gendered language of the Girls Night In boycott, calling the name exclusionary to those who identify as other genders, but are nonetheless affected by spiking. In response to this, the Edinburgh group have released an apology about the name, which was chosen as a play on the phrase “girls night out”. Organisers said: “We completely acknowledge that the name fails to include people of all identities and we are deeply sorry if it comes across as exclusive.” “We want to reiterate that, not only are all genders and people of all identities welcome to join this movement; but we hugely appreciate every single person that has united with us and supported this.” During the boycott on Wednesday 27th October, the University of Manchester Students’ Union is hosting alternative events to clubbing, in support of the anti-spiking movement. See below for details.

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

News 7

Climate cop-out? What to look out for at COP26 With all the build up to COP26, there is much to look out for and key areas for those interested in the climate to focus on

Archie Earle News Editor

ver the course of two weeks the UK government will host the COP26 summit in Glasgow, in partnership with the Italian government. Starting on 31st October and ending on 12th November, the summit aims to extend the commitments made in The Paris Agreement, furthering targets on Climate Change and the response from world governments. However, with a large catalogue of events set up, it can be hard to wade through the various goals and meetings set up therefore, The Mancunion have picked out some key events to watch out for in the coming weeks.

Reiterating the Paris climate accord COP26 will see countries such as the UK and US push forward the ambitions set out in the Paris Climate Accords. Currently, the goals are to reach global net-zero and to prevent temperatures from rising above 1.5C compared to pre-industrial levels. This is particularly important as countries will attempt to put in their targets for 2030. Financing the change to be controversial It is a subject of debate on whether the $100bn climate funding goal has actually been achieved, with some saying that loans are not enough and poorer countries saying public finance must account for the cost. However,

countries are set to agree on how funding should move forward with regard to funding the climate fight. Richer countries are expected to foot the bill but deciding which countries put more money forward is still a contentious topic. Everything to get very political Whilst the conference places high importance on the climate, it is being attended by politicians, all with political agendas in mind. President Xi Jingping of China has already stated that he will not be attending in person, an incredibly significant move as China now leads the way in the production of Carbon emissions. This is in addition to Putin saying that he may not attend due to Covid-19 safety concerns.

Furthermore, Boris Johnson has highlighted the importance of the conference, commenting that it must be a pivotal “turning point for humanity”. With all the political ego being shifted about it is reasonable to believe that the limelight of political posturing may overshadow the event. Not much to be achieved Whilst this is widely seen to be an important event in terms of battling the climate crisis, critics suggest that it is more pageantry than anything else. Worldrenowned climate activist, Great Thunberg has suggested that: ‘The leaders will say ‘we’ll do this and we’ll do this, and we will put our forces together and achieve this’, and then they will do nothing. Maybe some symbolic things and

creative accounting and things that don’t really have a big impact. We can have as many COPs as we want, but nothing real will come out of it.’ We don’t yet know exactly what COP26 will hold and whether concrete climate action will be achieved, however, if nothing else the summit serves as a chance to remind ourselves of the importance of proper climate change action.

Photo: Peter McDermott@Geograph

Manchester City Council cancels free Bonfire Night event Concerns over COVID-19 spread and control lead council to cancel Bonfire Night plans. Sam Bronheim Science Editor

onfire Night firework displays have been cancelled in Manchester for the second year in a row over COVID-19 safety concerns. The council has cancelled the events in light of organisational complications, but also over fears of increasing COVID-19 spread. Usually, the events attract tens of thousands

of people. The council felt that with this large scale of visitors there was no feasibly safe way for the events to be managed. It also poses a challenge to validating the Covid-status of the attendees. Manchester City Council had originally planned to host 8 free events on the 5th of November in numerous major parks across Manchester. This included the popular student spot, Platt’s Field Park. Despite these

cancellations, the council will permit private events to go ahead. Residents on Twitter are already expressing their concern that the cancellation of the councilrun events will lead to a rise in anti-social behaviour, such as the purchasing of unsafe fireworks or the illegal construction of bonfires in public spaces. The council has encouraged those organising private plans to do so “safely and responsibly”.

8 Sport

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Opinion: Why aren’t there more black managers? Adam Pogrund addresses the lack of diversity in football leadership positions Adam Pogrund Sports Reporter

ootball as an industry is one of the most diverse in the country. The number of black footballers is significantly greater proportionally than the UK population, and it displays mobility seen little in other sectors of society. Black British people comprise 3% of the country, but their contribution to professional football far exceeds this number, with 42% of England’s Euro 2020 squad coming from black backgrounds. Yet, this diversity is not shared in the leadership roles, in positions such as owner or manager. It is undeniable that in recent years there has been a clearer focus in trying to root out racism from the beautiful game, and the Black Lives Matter movement has instituted uncomfortable conversations from those involved in football. However, more needs to be done, and there is no better place to start than by enhancing the number of BAME managers. Patrick Vieira and Nuno Espirito Santo are currently the only managers with black heritage in the Premier League. Two out of 20 is a low number, but this is not exclusive to English football. In the 2018 World Cup, the only black manager out of the 32 teams was Aliou Cisse of Senegal. More surprisingly, in the 2017 African Cup of Nations only 3 out of 16 managers were black. These low numbers demonstrate a systematic problem and emphasise that the lack of black managers is more than a coincidence. It raises questions as to what barriers black managers face.

When looking at the English game, there is “a systematic denial of talent and ambition” for BAME managers, according to Dr Steven Bradbury. Bradbury, a researcher at Loughborough University, found that only 19 of 552 senior coaching positions in English football were filled by BAME candidates. There have been suggestions of an unconscious bias against non-white managers. When owners and directors imagine success, they picture it with a white manager. Darren Moore was sacked as the West Bromwich Albion manager in March 2019, despite the club being firmly placed in the Championship play-off positions. The West Brom owner and fans wanting him out argued Moore’s team was

lacking in chemistry and form, but as talkSPORT host Adrian Durham argued, all owners see is “white managers lifting trophies season after season, therefore there is a subliminal unconscious mindset that only white is successful.” It is much rarer for black managers to be given a chance at proving themselves in the higher leagues. There is a constant stream of old white managers who are offered jobs at a variety of clubs. Tony Pulis, Gary Rowett, or Neil Warnock will never find themselves out of jobs for very long, despite varying levels of success. It is hugely telling when looking at the difference of opportunities given to Sol Campbell versus Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard. These players all performed at the very top level for both their clubs and for England. However, despite a similar level of managerial experience, opportunities were plentiful higher up the footballing pyramid for Lampard and Gerrard. Lampard’s first job was with promotion challenging Derby Country, and Gerrard took the reins at Scotland’s most successful club, Rangers.

In comparison, Campbell’s career as a manager started at lowly Macclesfield, who at that time were 5 points off safety at the bottom of League Two. He was successful in preventing their relegation, but his next job was not much more glamorous, becoming the manager of League One relegation battling Southend United. Campbell himself believes there are barriers against black managers, often down to a subconscious media racist bias, such as by painting him as inexperienced. There is not only a lack of black managers but in leadership positions all across the board. There has only been one black Premier League referee ever (Uriah Rennie), and in the 2019-20 season there was only 1 BAME referee in England’s professional divisions. Nor are there any black owners. There are only 2 black board members in the Professional Footballer’s Association and the Premier League. Out of 16 members, only Bobby Barnes and Paul Elliot are black. The lack of black people in these positions prevents a diverse range of voices being represented. Despite BAME footballers making

up 25% of professionals in England, only 13% of captains are black. This is in line with the outdated stereotype of black footballers being strong athletes rather than clever tacticians. Black players are often described by certain pundits as fast, powerful, and athletic. Their physical attributes are emphasised over their mental ones. A groundbreaking report by RunRepeat looking at 2000 commentary statements revealed the subconscious bias from commentators was so severe that BAME players were 7 times more likely to be described as powerful, and these players also received 63% of criticism for being unintelligent.

Number of black players in England Euros 2020 squad

Number of black managers in the Premier League

Number of black managers in the World Cup 2018

Number of black people in Senior Coaching positions

This helps to create an environment where black players’ intelligence is overlooked. Understanding of the game is crucial for a manager, their physical strength is not. These subtle microaggressions portraying black players in a certain light generates subconscious perceptions which further deconstruct a level playing field for black candidates in managerial appointments. The reality is that black people are underrepresented all throughout the British workplace, and football is merely a mirror of society. Football in England has been marred by racism, rocked by scandals such as with John Terry and Anton Ferdinand, or with Luis Suarez and Patrice Evra. There is scant punishment for racism from fans, and until the FA and Premier League truly intend to reduce discrimination with action rather than with meaningless gestures, the number of black managers will remain low. One option is affirmative action, successful in the NFL with the Rooney Rule, which was introduced in 2003. It requires teams with managerial vacancies to interview at least 1 ethnic minority candidate for the position. After only 3 years, the percentage of African-American coaches increased from 6% to 22%. Despite its success, English football does not seem to have any intention of following suit. Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford. In this way, football has the ability to act as a spearhead in creating further equality for all regardless of ethnicity or race. The only way this will happen is if the institutions that govern football employ and take heed from black former players and individuals. Tangible strategies must follow, and only then will we see a substantial increase in black managers in English football.

Infographic: The Mancunion Photos left to right: Carla Cortés @ Wikumedia Commons, Simon Heseltine @ Wikumedia Commons, quisnovus @ Flickr.

Features 9

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Samuel Alexander: the man, the myth, the building

Explore the history of the Samuel Alexander building at the University of Manchester and the life of the man it is named after

p hy t u t o r a t L i n co l n’s C o l l e ge i n 1 8 8 2 .

Ella Reading Features Writer

“T

he Samuel Alexander buildi n g h a s b e e n a f fe c t e d p a r-

t i c u l a rly b a d ly b y t h e re c e n t f l o o d i n g o n O x fo rd Ro a d . W h e n I re c e ive d a n e m a i l n o t i f y i n g m e o f i t s c l o s u re , I b e g a n t o wo n d e r why t h e b u i l d i n g h a s i t s name. The

Samuel

p re v i o u s ly

Alexander

called

building,

Humanities

Lime

G rove , a n d re n a m e d i n 2 0 0 7, c o n t a i n s a b u s t o f A l e x a n d e r i n t h e m a i n e n t ra n c e h a l l . Ja c o b E p s t e i n p re s e n t e d i t t o t h e u n ive r s i t y i n 1 92 5 . B u t wh o i s S a m u e l A l e x a n d e r, a n d wh a t ’s h i s s i g n i f i c a n c e t o t h e U n ive r s i t y o f M a n c h e s t e r ?

Who is Samuel Alexander? B o r n i n t o a Je w i s h fa m i ly i n 1 8 5 9 i n S yd n e y, Au s t ra l i a , A l e x a n d e r b e c a m e a h i g h ly i n f l u e n t i a l p h i l o s o p h e r a n d p ro fe s s o r, m o s t ly a c t ive i n t h e f i r s t h a l f o f t h e t we n t i e t h ce n t u r y. H e s p e n t t h e e a rl i e r ye a r s o f h i s l i fe g row i n g u p i n Au s t ra l i a , a n d e n ro l l e d a t t h e U n ive r s i t y o f M e l b o u r n e i n 1 87 5 . I t wa s c l e a r t h a t A l e x a n d e r h a d a s h a r p m i n d . S o m u c h s o t h a t h i s m o t h e r g ave him the money to come to England to p u r s u e a s c h o l a r s h i p a t t h e U n ive r s i t y o f O x fo rd , wh i c h h e o b t a i n e d , a n d h e e n ro l l e d a t B a l l i o l C o l l e ge i n 1 87 7. H e s p e n t t h e n e x t s i x t e e n ye a r s o f h i s l i fe i n O x fo rd , b e c o m i n g a P h i l o s o -

ish idealism.

a n d n ove l i s t , a n d t re a t e d h e r l i ke a f a -

A notable publication by Alexander

A l e x a n d e r ’s Wo rk

t h e r f i g u re wo u l d . I n 1 9 02 , t h e e n t i re

wh i l s t a t u t o r wa s h i s 1 8 8 9 wo rk . M o r-

I d e a l i s m i s fo c u s e d o n l i n k i n g i d e a s

A l e x a n d e r f a m i ly c a m e f ro m S yd n e y

a l O rd e r a n d P ro g re s s : A n A n a lys i s o f

f ro m t h e m i n d t o re a l i t y. S a m u e l A l e x-

t o M a n c h e s t e r t o l ive w i t h S a m u e l A l -

E t h i c a l C o n ce p t i o n s c o n s i d e re d h ow

a n d e r b ra n c h e d away f ro m t h i s b y c re -

e x a n d e r. W h e n h e d i e d i n 1 93 8 , h e wa s

m o ra l p h i l o s o p hy co u l d b e p ro g re s s e d .

a t i n g h i s ow n i n t e r p re t a t i o n o f re a l i s m .

u n m a r r i e d , a n d s t i l l l ive d i n M a n c h e s -

H e wa s a l s o t h e f i r s t Je w i s h fe l l ow o f a n

H e a p p ro a c h e d p h i l o s o p hy ra t i o n a l ly

t e r – fo r a s h o r t wh i l e a t 6 M a u l d e t h

O x b r i d ge c o l l e ge .

a n d i n co r p o ra t e d a ra n ge o f s c i e n c e s .

Ro a d We s t .

B u s t o f S a m u e l A l e x a n d e r. P h o t o :

C o n t r i b u t i n g t o a n e w b ra n c h o f p h i l o -

A l e x a n d e r ’s d e a t h

E l l a Re a d i n g @ T h e M a n c u n i o n

s o p h i c a l t h i n k i n g re fe r re d t o a s B r i t i s h

A f t e r h i s d e a t h , t h e re we re t wo m a i n

A l e x a n d e r ’s t i m e i n M a n chester

e m e rge n t i s m , wh i c h co n s i d e r s t h e p h i -

contributions that Samuel Alexander

l o s o p hy o f t h e m i n d a n d i d e a s a b o u t

made to the academic community in

Fo u r ye a r s a f t e r t h i s p u b l i c a t i o n , i n

co n s c i o u s n e s s . H e h e av i ly i n f l u e n c e d

h i s w i l l . T h e f i r s t wa s t o t h e U n ive r s i -

1 8 9 3 , S a m u e l A l e x a n d e r a r r ive d i n M a n -

t h e d e ve l o p m e n t o f m e t a p hys i c a l re -

t y o f Je r u s a l e m a n d t h e s e c o n d t o t h e

c h e s t e r t o b e a p ro fe s s o r o f P h i l o s o p hy

a l i s m i n t h e t we n t i e t h c e n t u r y. T h i s

U n ive r s i t y o f M a n c h e s t e r, m a rk i n g h i s

a t O we n s C o l l e ge ( n ow T h e U n ive r s i t y

a rg u e s t h e m a j o r i t y o f o b j e c t s o n e a r t h

i n t e re s t i n d e ve l o p i n g t h e c o m m u n i t i e s

o f M a n c h e s t e r ) . H e wa s t h e f i r s t S a m -

e x i s t i n d e p e n d e n t ly o f h u m a n t h o u g h t .

and education at these institutions.

u e l H a l l P ro fe s s o r o f P h i l o s o p hy a n d

I n 1 92 0, h e p u b l i s h e d S p a c e , T i m e

I n m o d e r n M a n c h e s t e r, S a m u e l A l -

re m a i n e d i n h i s p o s i t i o n fo r t h i r t y- o n e

a n d D e i t y, wh i c h s u g ge s t s t h a t s p a c e

e x a n d e r ’s wo rk i s a c c e s s i b l e i n t h e Jo h n

ye a r s , u n t i l h i s re t i re m e n t i n 1 92 4 .

t i m e i n c l u d e d e ve r y t h i n g e l s e i n re a l -

Ryl a n d s L i b ra r y, wo r t h a v i s i t a l o n e fo r

D u r i n g h i s t i m e a t t h e u n ive r s i t y,

i t y, fo r e x a m p l e , t h e b i c yc l e t h a t A l e x-

i t s m a r ve l l o u s i n t e r i o r a n d e x t e r i o r.

t h e p ro fe s s o r co n t r i b u t e d m a s s ive ly

ander elected as his primary method of

Samuel Alexander is an example

t o e x p a n d i n g s t u d e n t l i fe . Fo r e x a m p l e

t ra n s p o r t a ro u n d t h e u n ive r s i t y. S u re ly

o f o n e o f t h e m a ny i n t r i g u i n g f i g u re s

by h e l p i n g t o s e t u p A s h b u r n e H a l l , t h e

m e m b e r s o f t h e C yc l i n g S o c i e t y c a n a p -

re m e m b e re d b y t h e u n ive r s i t y. T h e re

f i r s t fe m a l e h a l l o f re s i d e n ce a t t h e U n i -

p re c i a t e t h i s t ra n s p o r t c h o i c e e ve n t o

a re m a ny m o re b u i l d i n g s , e a c h w i t h a

ve r s i t y o f M a n c h e s t e r. H e a l s o co n t r i b -

t h i s d ay !

c a p t iva t i n g s t o r y t o b e t o l d . N e x t t i m e

uted to the independent status of the u n ive r s i t y. A s i d e f ro m h i s wo rk a s a p ro fe s s o r

The outside of the Samuel Alexan-

yo u p a s s t h ro u g h a u n ive r s i t y b u i l d i n g ,

d e r B u i l d i n g . P h o t o : E l l a Re a d i n g @ T h e

c o n s i d e r i t s p a s t a n d wo n d e r why i t h a s

Mancunion

t h e n a m e i t d o e s . P e rh a p s t h i s w i l l i n -

a n d ke y f i g u re i n t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f

In terms of personal connections, it

s p i re yo u t o re s e a rc h i t a n d d i s c ove r a

t h e U n ive r s i t y o f M a n c h e s t e r, S a m u e l

appears Samuel Alexander built a close

h i d d e n ge m i n t h e u n ive r s i t y ’s , o r M a n -

A l e x a n d e r wa s re n ow n e d fo r h i s p h i l o -

re l a t i o n s h i p w i t h Na o m i M i t c h i n s o n .

s o p h i c a l i d e a s . H e wa s a c r u c i a l t h i n ke r

S h e wa s b o r n i n S co t l a n d b u t g re w u p

i n t h e t we n t i e t h ce n t u r y, m a i n ly k n ow n

i n O x fo rd . H e o f fe re d h e r a m p l e a dv i c e

fo r b re a k i n g away f ro m t h e i d e a o f B r i t-

t o a l l ow h e r s k i l l t o f l o u r i s h a s a p o e t

c h e s t e r ’s , h i s t o r y.

10 Science & Tech

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Finding new social norms after a year inside Readjusting to life after lockdown might feel scary, so what do the neuroscientists have to say? Liliana Newsam-Smith Science Writer

hether it’s your first year of university or you are returning to Manchester in the 2021-2022 academic year, it’s hard to know what to expect. One key anxiety looming over our collective heads is the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and what our new ‘normal’ will look like. As we all break those social bubbles, get a little closer than 2m, and unveil our masks (mostly), it’s sometimes hard to remember what socialising was like before. The quarantine and social restrictions across the globe led to people having to stay away from anyone outside their household for extended time periods. Scientists think this may have led to changes far deeper than our daily routines. What do we know about social isolation? Research on astronauts, scientists working from remote areas, and prisoners in solitary confinement, has shown that prolonged social isolation and extended loneliness can lead to cognitive decline. People who scored highly on the UCLA loneliness scale, a commonly used tool that helps discern

Justice at last for Henrietta Lacks? Emma Hattersley Science Editor

n October last year, the Mancunion covered the story of Henrietta Lacks. She was a black woman whose cancerous cells were taken without her consent and sold to be used in research laboratories all around the world. These cells, known as HeLa cells, have generated millions of dollars in revenue for Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., a biotechnology company. Up until now, Lacks’ family has not received a penny, but a lawsuit filed on the 4th October – the 101st anniversary of her death - may change that. Who was Henrietta Lacks? In 1951, Henrietta Lacks was receiving care for cervical cancer at John Hopkins Hospital, Maryland. Doctors took a sample of her biopsied tumour, without her knowledge or consent, and sent it to laboratories all over the world. This was within legal boundaries at the time, but nonetheless presents clear ethical problems. In addition, Lacks’ cells were unique, and far more useful than any harvested cells had been previously. Due to a genetic mutation, they were able to divide at an unprecedented rate, leading

people’s feelings of isolation, also tended to have a reduced amount of grey matter in their hippocampus and amygdala. These brain regions are key to emotional processing. In addition, studies on mice have highlighted that a smaller hippocampus is linked to reduced learning and memory capability. Structural MRIs performed by neuroscientists at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development displayed anatomical changes the spaceship crew members’ brains had undergone. The area they focused on was the dentate gyrus which feeds into the hippocampus and they observed that it had shrunk by an average of approximately 7%. Furthermore, studies on isolated animals have found they have higher concentrations of the stress hormone cortisol, which is regulated by the hippocampus. Those with less social activity and fewer social networks typically have smaller amygdalae, which is worrying due to its known role in emotional processing. What does this mean for us? Biologist Daniela Riviera believes the physical changes our

brains may have undergone during the lockdown period may not return to normal so quickly. Those who already suffered with social anxiety prior to the pandemic may feel that their progress has regressed. If you find yourself scrambling for the right words to say next in a conversation, this may be due to the changes in your brain that are involved in your memory recall. You may find yourself more regularly paranoid, confused, anxious and possibly possess a more negative, depressive outlook. The normal pre-lockdown day filled with plenty of social interaction and rushing around may feel like it completely depletes your social battery for the next couple of days. However, this doesn’t mean we are going to feel like this forever. The human brain has an incredible capability for flexibility, and neuroscientists believe that with time and reintroduction to previously common social situations our brains will readapt. It is unlikely we will forget the COVID-19 pandemic any time soon, but the fears and behaviours we have become adjusted to won’t stick. So, in the meantime, be gentle with yourself and allow time for you and your brain to get used to the new ‘normal’.

A new lawsuit from the family of Henrietta Lacks represents a new chapter in her tale of race, money and consent. to an unending line of identical cells that are still used in research today. Her cells have been used to produce polio and HPV vaccines, treat Ebola and have been sent to outer space. Most recently, they were used in the development of the COVID-19 vaccines. The widespread use of the cells have made them the basis of countless patents and inventions, facilitating recognition and profits for many scientists and companies. New lawsuit announced Lacks’ family have now announced that they are suing Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., a biotechnology company specialising in life science research and patient diagnostics. It claims to make $35 billion annually. The lawsuit asks them to “disgorge the full amount of its net profits obtained by commercialising the HeLa cell line to the Estate of Henrietta Lacks.” The family’s lawyers state that the cells were stolen from her body and the money they generated was taken from her family, many of whom experienced severe poverty. Ironically, many suffered for years from chronic illnesses without health insurance, whilst the cells taken from their mother were constantly improving medical practices.

During a news conference, Ben Crump, a prominent civil-rights attorney working on the lawsuit asked: “Why is it they have intellectual rights to her cells and can benefit billions of dollars when her family, her flesh and blood, her Black children, get nothing?” Alongside a right to the profits, the family are also demanding that Thermo Fisher Scientific halt their usage of HeLa cells unless the family give their consent. There were also hints of further lawsuits to come. Christopher Seeger, a corporate litigator working as another attorney for the family said that Thermo Fisher Scientific “shouldn’t feel too alone because they’re going to have a lot of company soon.” It is unknown what companies will be involved, as so many corporations have profited from use of the cells over the years. John Hopkins itself denies ever making money from the cells, but accepts ethical responsibility. The lawsuit claims that Lacks was one of a number of black women receiving cervical cancer treatment at John Hopkins in the 1950s who had their cells unethically harvested by white doctors. True justice for Henrietta Lacks is arguable unobtainable. However, the launch of this lawsuit provides a sense of hope that one day reparations will be made for this horrific historical iniquity.

Science & Tech 11

ISSUE 3 / 25th October WWW.MANCUNION.COM

COVID-19 booster vaccines: What, who and why?

Evidence suggests additional doses increase vaccine-induced protection against COVID-19 in vulnerable individuals. Lauren Manning Science Writer

e’re all tired of hearing about COVID-19, I know. But no matter how much we wish it would, it doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. The same is true for COVID-19 vaccines; they are here to stay. In fact, the government has just begun the rollout of a booster vaccination programme for winter 2021-22. So, what vaccines are recommended, who are they for, and why are they needed? The first COVID-19 vaccine was approved for emergency use only one year after the virus first emerged. This rapid development timeline, along with the vaccines being the first mRNA-based vaccines to be authorised for use in humans, created some controversy. More importantly though, it showed the value of science and what it can accomplish with proper funding and modern technology. Prior to this, the fastest vaccine to have ever been developed from viral sampling techniques was the mumps vaccine. But even this took four years. Since the start of the mass vaccination programme across the UK, over 60% of the population have received at least one dose of one of the four vaccines approved for use in the UK. It has been estimated that these vaccinations have prevented over 230,800 hospitalisations, and prevented over 20 million infections. Despite this, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised that individuals considered to be

Bug grub Sam Bronheim Science Editor

t is no secret that the current meat industry is highly unsustainable. Between the vast carbon emissions, land use and water consumption required to run industrial farms, industrial meat is becoming increasingly unpopular. This is reflected by the rise in vegan diets and the abundance of meat-alternative products available in supermarkets. But it’s not enough, and to really put a stop to this devastating industry, alternative protein sources are the future for the food industry. One surprising avenue? Insects. Why insects? According to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation, insects on average only need around 2kg of feed to generate 1kg of mass, whereas cows require 4 times the amount of feed to produce the same amount. Additionally, insects require less space and water than traditional livestock. They also produce much lower amounts of greenhouse gases given their size and efficient metabolisms.

most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 disease should be offered a third dose of the vaccine, aiming to maintain protection in those individuals. This decision was based on the COVBOOST study funded by the UK government and the National Institute for Health Research, which investigated the effect of a third vaccine dose on patients’ immune responses. They studied seven different COVID-19 vaccines and found that booster doses resulted in enhanced immune responses, with the mRNA vaccines generating a stronger reaction than other COVID-19 vaccines. For this reason, the Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines are being offered preferentially, irrespective of what vaccine brand the patients initially received. The group currently being offered the booster vaccine includes those who received their vaccination in phase 1 of the primary vaccination programme: adults aged 50 or over, those living in residential care homes, frontline health and social care workers, those with underlying health conditions, and those living with immunosuppressed individuals. Recent studies have found evidence that levels of protection against infection and symptomatic disease in older individuals who received their vaccine longer ago have begun to fall. Other studies have indicated that additional vaccine doses increased antibody production against COVID-19 in organ transplant patients with compromised immune systems. With restrictions easing up, in-

creased social interactions and a reduction in mask-wearing could result in a rise in COVID-19 infections. This would put additional pressure on the NHS during the winter, during which viral infections already tend to surge. Now, then, seems to be the perfect time for a booster vaccine. So why isn’t the booster being offered to everyone? After all, the government has been strongly encouraging us all to get a COVID vaccine in the first place. Well, they may be offered to the general population eventually, but most younger adults received their COVID-19 vaccines in the summer or autumn of 2021. This means there is little data on the benefits of booster vaccines and the duration of immune-induced protection in this group. What’s more, it is likely that the immune response induced by the primary vaccination would be stronger in younger, healthier individuals compared to older ones. For those reasons, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has suggested that booster doses are not currently needed for fully vaccinated individuals in the general population. So, most of us probably won’t require a booster vaccine anytime soon. However, COVID is still dominating our lives and, while it is, protecting those who are most vulnerable is essential. These additional vaccine doses, along with facemasks and hand sanitizer, play a key role in that. With these precautions, hopefully, pre-COVID normality, or some semblance of it, may not be too far away.

Insects: creepy, crawly and packed full of protein! From a nutrition point of view, insect protein is very high-quality in comparison to normal meat and fish. In other words, insects can easily supply sufficient protein levels to humans. Depending on the species, they can also be supplemental for particular amino acids. For example, palm weevils are rich in the amino acids lysine and leucine.

Can have up to 30g of protein per 100g, which is more than some cuts of steak of the same amount! The consumption of insects, or entomophagy, is already a part of many cultures. Especially in Asia, Africa, and South America. This is mainly because many cultures in these regions depend on shared knowledge from ancestors or indigenous communities. The locals have a deep understanding of their environment and what organisms are edible, and perhaps more importantly, what specific nutrition they can provide. Insect protein: tough to swallow Switching to insect-based protein doesn’t just mean eating whole insects. I think most people would agree that having something with

six legs curled up on your plate might not be the most appetising image. Luckily for us, that’s only one way of consuming them. Crushed or powdered insects can be incorporated into foods we already know and love, like pasta sauce. This wouldn’t take away from the food at all but would increase their protein content without needing a meat supplement. Of course, there’s always the option of “disguising” the insects in the way many vegetarian or vegan products do, by mimicking familiar meat products. But personally, I would happily snack on a bag of crunchy, salted crickets with my next meal deal. Are we there yet? In May of this year, the EU voted to approve yellow mealworms as suitable and safe food for human consumption. This is a huge step in the right direction for both investment and development in the area, and for improving social perception. For the moment, existing edible-insect companies cannot compete with the scale of the meat industry, but with advancing legislation and social acceptance there is no reason why insects can’t be the next big thing for our diets.

A new era of alarms

New developments in cardiovascular healthcare at the University of Manchester could save millions of lives Dylan Gunasekera Science Writer

eart and cardiovascular diseases are an ever-growing issue in the developed world, causing a quarter of all deaths in the UK. Researchers in Manchester may have found one way to help with this epidemic, potentially saving thousands, if not millions of lives. A recent study in Manchester has investigated the use of implantable pacemakers with sensors to monitor patients’ heart health 24 hours a day. Traditionally, patients with heart failure that use pacemakers have appointments every 6 to 12 months, relying on patients self-reporting any times they feel unwell to book earlier appointments. This study, however, recognised that pacemakers with sensors could be used as an early alarm system. Device-derived alerts could be sent to patient care teams, giving them real-time data on a patient that may be at a high risk of mortality. This removes the problem of patients not recognising when they are ill, reducing the risk of potentially life-threatening events occurring. Dr Fozia Ahmed, Honorary Reader in Cardiovascular Sciences from The University of Manchester and Consultant Cardiologist at The Manchester Heart Centre said, “Remote monitory capabilities of modern-day cardiac devices enable continuous monitoring of health-related data in the patients’ own homes.” When it comes to healthcare, the earlier we act, the better the outcome, and with the use of continuous monitoring, like with this pacemaker, we can potentially improve the outcomes for so many. At the moment, 80% of patients with heart failure are only diagnosed when they enter hospital. Early recognition systems can really help improve this figure. The development of this new digital recognition method could be the next stepping stone on the journey to improving the outcomes of cardiovascular diseases. Hopefully, this Manchester alarm will wake us up to the world of digitalised healthcare.

12 Opinion

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Conservatives in Manchester: What ’s t he story with t he Tor ie s? Yes, the Conservative Party Conference was a joke but Tory rule is anything but funny. Max Earnshaw Opinion writer

ast your mind back to the start of October, when the whirlwind that was the Conservative Party Conference swept through Manchester. As even a cursory glance through social media during the conference showed, a series of gaffes befell several prominent MPs. In a city so far north of the traditional party heartlands, I’m surprised they didn’t all get nosebleeds. Jacob Rees-Mogg for example, the much-loved MP, was turned away from the nightclub Revolucion de Cuba. Mercifully, as I’m sure he would’ve been the only person there in a top hat. Meanwhile, Minister Thérèse Coffey performed a karaoke cover of ‘The Time of My Life’ from Dirty Dancing at the after-party. A sight that can only be described as harrowing. Both in the sense that her department was cutting over £1000 a year in universal credit payments from 5.5 million families as she sang, and that her singing voice had the potential to do more damage to the music industry than lockdown ever did.

Suffice to say, this particular Coffey’s singing voice was very much a flat white. The fact that the Conservatives chose to hold their conference in a city where witless political opinion writers such as myself can target them so easily with cheap puns about their surnames does puzzle me, however. The party members who attended can be in no doubt that their chosen city was a far cry from the usual Tory strongholds, especially as thousands piled into Piccadilly Gardens to protest against this Government’s failure to “level up” in the North. Amongst their (many) various other gripes, of course. The tide isn’t firmly against Johnson’s party, however. Whilst Greater Manchester has 18 Labour MPs, the Conservatives returned 9 in the region in 2019 – 5 of whom were newly elected. Bolton Council is currently controlled by the Conservatives, turning blue in 2019 for the first time in 40 years. These gradual gains in Manchester tell a wider story of consecutive Tory victories on the national stage. Yet, there are no prizes for guessing which regions of the UK have felt the

impact most keenly of increasing inequality under ten years of Conservative Government. The Office for National Statistics lament the “gap between the richest in society and the rest of the population has widened over the 10-year period” between 2010-2020. It also notes that London, the South-East and the East of England all had significantly higher levels of economic output in 2018 than the North-West. But surely, when Boris Johnson stood in front of a packed conference hall pledging to “build back better”, he wasn’t being disingenuous? Well, maybe he wasn’t. But “better” can mean different things to different people. Consider Conservative MP Sir Peter Bottomley’s vision of a better Britain. He made a heartfelt appeal that the £82,000 base salary for MPs (before ministerial bonuses are added for a few dozen frontbenchers) was not enough and had the brass neck to describe the situation as “really grim”. Whilst there are legitimate arguments that suggest that if we want to attract the brightest minds to parliament then we have to offer them better pay, Sir Peter’s comments are wildly detached from reality.

Here, in the real world, the average pay is £31,000. Poor Peter. Additionally, it goes without saying that Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford’s crusade against the Tory cutbacks on free school meals was borne of a fear that Manchester was regressing in its duty to feed its children. “A significant number of children are going to bed tonight not only hungry but feeling that they do not matter”, he maligned in a scathing attack against an elitist system. After over a decade of Tory rule, it’s difficult to feel that he meant anyone other than this Government. So why do the Tories seem to be on the up in Manchester? Is it a flash in the pan? Well, not exactly. The five new Tory MPs elected in 2019 all took office in Brexit voting seats. The reasons for voting Brexit have been much discussed, debated, and dissected over the past five years. In fact, the mere mention of the ‘B’-word is probably enough to make you want to stop reading right now. But stick with me. You’ve come this far, and I’m nearly done. I’m trying my best to think of a funny way to end this. I hope you like it. The key reason many people in

towns such as Bolton, Bury, Leigh, Middleton and Heywood voted Brexit and then Conservative is because they desperately want something, anything, to change. This may sound counter-intuitive as the Tories have held power for over a decade, but Brexit became the silver bullet. Something dramatic could change. The UK voted to leave, but instead of getting what they were promised, they got a 4-year saga of politicians of all persuasions, twisting Brexit to mean whatever suited them best. Some of this included efforts spearheaded by now-Labour leader trying to revoke it entirely. Compare Starmer to Boris Johnson, who is different to most other politicians with his bombastic, simplistic “Get Brexit Done” and it’s no wonder everyone took him up on the offer. I wish it had been true. If 2019 was the Brexit election, then the next election is likely to be the Starmer election. I wonder how that will end… Andy Burnham may be the King of the North, and Boris Johnson more of a Court Jester. At least the Court Jester gets into the King’s castle and currently, Keir Starmer is stuck in the moat.

Spot the sunbather ... Photo: World of Oddy @ Flickr

Opinion 13

ISSUE 3 / 25TH OCTOBER 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Starmer feels the Burn(ham) in latest Popularity Polls Starmer has got to go - and Andy Burnham should be the one to replace him Hannah Bohan Opinion Writer

t comes as no surprise to anyone that in the run-up

to the Labour party conference last month, a measly 14% of voters

believed

Keir

Starmer

should be leading the party. This compared to 19% backing Andy Burnham. The same poll, run by The Independent , delivers a number of stark figures on the

the government for the queues at

fail

Britain’s petrol stations (as a direct

Safe

3 restrictions, Burnham stood up

in fact. The general distaste for

they

for Manchester. He demanded an

result of their Brexit policies and

will

bland and uninspiring leaders like

scot-free.

extra £30 million in funding for

Starmer show that what we need

failure to prepare, again), he instead

Of course, this begs the question

Greater Manchester to meet costs

is somebody with a bit of pizzazz.

chose

splintering

of why Andy Burnham is the

for local businesses. When this was

Especially when kicking your heels

factions of his own party further

popular choice for leading Labour

denied, he held a press conference

in is also defending the public’s best

apart. It is this lack of urgency

to victory. What makes him any

to address the government’s refusal

interests.

that has allowed a government

different? The answer is a simple

and demanded £65 million as a bare

responsible for “one of the worst

one, that for many of us in Greater

minimum.

public health failures ever”, to

Manchester is obvious to see.

During his impassioned speech

party. His focus is on winning back

maintain a comfortable 5% lead

Burnham represents an elected

on this issue, he defended the

Northern voters who will be critical

ahead of Labour in popularity polls.

official doing his job and striving to

commitments

the

to the success of Labour. Clearly

poorest members of the community.

missing this memo, Keir Starmer

Even addressing the people of

did not afford any of the northern

Greater

directly.

metropolitan mayors a spot on

unwavering

the bill at Labour’s conference.

drive

the

“

dwindling popularity of the current leader in comparison to his rivals. They are popularity predicted with great accuracy. Starmer has spent the last 18 months failing to hold the shortcomings.

such as Brexit or the COVID-19 pandemic, he is well known to sit on the fence and shy away from dispute. Given numerous chances to take a stand and oppose the Tories’ shambolic governance, he has failed to seize his opportunities. I get the impression the shadow cabinet has to hype him up before PMQ’s, encouraging him to raise his voice a little. The

party

conference

Brighton reaffirmed that scrutiny is beyond his skillset as leader of the opposition. In a week that should have been spent drilling

always

their

promises.

knowledge get

off

has

challenged

the

Burnham represents something of substance and hope for the

made

Manchester

up’ campaign promises, by laying

out and working to implement

commitment to his role as an

Perhaps

his own plan for levelling up the

elected official, even when this

allowing Burnham a speech would

city. This includes an ambitious

required a level of confrontation.

result in something even remotely

new

transport

system

through

displayed

Following

his

the

conference,

was

worried

that

interesting being suggested.

Greater Manchester, which would

claims were made about Burnham’s

The failures of the conference

make travel cheaper and easier,

true intentions. This was due to the

were evident in Labour’s lack of

is nothing that can loosen the

expanding

opportunities

fact only £5 million extra was being

bounce in the polls. While those

Conservative stronghold on public

for people with lower incomes,

demanded after the first refusal -

in the centre circle were hoping

opinion, other than an alternative

especially.

an insignificant amount in funding

to display their shift away from

terms. The same attitude is taken

the Corbyn era, they forgot this

When

pushed on any of the key debates,

the

Conservatives’ empty ‘levelling

government to account for their enormous

fulfill

achieve what he set out to do.

I get the impression the shadow cabinet has to hype him up before PMQ’s

stats which many of us could have

It must be concluded there

worth voting for. An alternative

the

There is a desperate cry for

that will finally point the finger at

concrete

policy

suggestions,

by some of Burnham’s critics within

would actually require some new

a government that has been caught

coming from those who want to see

the Labour party, who see him as

direction. The general consensus

red-handed again and again. Since

Labour win the next election, and

a troublemaker. It would be both

seems to be that they are still

winning the leadership contest

Andy Burnham has the potential to

easier and less risky for him to just

searching for it.

last year, the lack of substance and

answer it.

sit back and be quiet about some

Keir Starmer is clearly facing

of the key issues he has been vocal

an important decision at what is a

about.

pivotal time for policy decisions in

innovation in Labour’s proposals

Many will remember one of

has granted the Tories free reign

the key moments in which Andy

over policy with no fear of the

Burnham became a contender for

However, I view his willingness

the electoral cycle. Take a leaf out

consequences.

the Labour party leader: his row

to fight for what is right is what makes

of Andy Burnham’s book Starmer,

with the government in October

him so appealing as the next leader.

or step aside for him to do the job

opposition,

last year. Following Boris Johnson’s

Accusations of showmanship are

himself.

the Conservatives will continue

announcement to plunge a number

hardly detrimental to Burnham’s

to break their own rules and

of cities in the North West into tier

capability.

As long as Keir Starmer is the

leader

the

Quite

the

opposite

King of the North? “Accusations of showmanship are hardly detrimental to Burnham’s capability. Quite the opposite in fact. The general distaste for bland and uninspiring leaders like Starmer show that what we need is somebody with a bit of pizzazz.”

Lifestyle 29 9

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021

ISSUE 3/ 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM WWW.MANCUNION.COM 14 Lifestyle

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Spooky season is upon us: Here’s what Manchester has to offer The Mancunion guide on how to spend Halloween this year, from swimming in the dark, to club nights and pumpkin carving, we’ve got you covered with an events run down this October. the best-looking pumpkin and at £15 a ticket, it’s a fun event for the whole flat.

Camille Garratt Lifestyle Writer

n search of something to do this Halloween that doesn’t involve chucking on a pair of horns and drinking way more than intended? Celebrate spooky season differently this year – from pumpkin carving to swimming and skating, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of Halloween events happening in Manchester you’ve probably yet to hear about.

25th October - Nightmare on Wilmslow Road, XLR Withington FuseFM and MMG are putting on a nightmarish club event in Withington. Expect live music organised by the Gigs and Band society and a number of talented student DJs playlisting the night! Tickets are £3 with a valid Student Id from any Manchester university and the night will start at 8 pm until 2 am, costumes and spooky vibes are strongly advised.

27th October – Pumpkin Carving and Spiced Rum, The Pen and Pencil The Pen and Pencil’s annual pumpkin carving competition is back on in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Offering a rum cocktail on arrival, and various Kraken Rum tipples, you’ll be giddy just in time for pumpkin carving. A prize will be presented for

J003158_Pen&Pencil_pumpkin_carving_v2.pdf

19/09/2019

28th October – Swim in the Dark, Salford Quays If you fancy a midnight dip, head on over to Salford Quays where you can join a group swim whilst donning your best Halloween costume, and a wetsuit of course (safety first!). You’ll be provided with your very own spooky swim cap and glow sticks to make the night more seasonal. It’s a super fun activity that’s a little different to how you might usually spend Halloween… perhaps eating the chocolates you supposedly bought for trick or treaters? Warm soup and hot drinks will be waiting for you by the water’s edge. What’s not to love?

22nd – 31st October – Scare Skate, Cathedral Gardens If you’d rather be on the water, than in it, pop your skates on and head to Cathedral Gardens’ new ice rink, double the size of previous years. Hosting a Halloween special, the rink will include spooky songs and themed lighting. You better be a pro on ice because close behind you will lie ghoulish monsters on skates. Fancy dress is encouraged!

31st October – Blackout Dinner, 20 Stories If you’re looking for a more elegant Halloween experience, or if fine dining is your forte, then book

11:28

Weds 27 October 7pm

CMY

TICKET INCLUDES: Rum cocktail on arrival Tasters from Kraken Rum Pumpkin carving competition Prizes for the best pumpkin Take home Kraken Goodies (and pumpkin) penandpencilnq

BOOKING ESSENTIAL TICKETS £15

INFO@THEPENANDPENCILNQ.CO.UK

thepenandpencilnq

57 Hilton St, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 2EJ

thepenandpencilnq.co.uk

yourself a table at 20 Stories. Indulge in an exclusive four-course menu, served to you in their rooftop restaurant, all by candlelight and enjoy the views of Manchester.

All October – The Dunham Pumpkin Patch, Dunham Massey Do you still need to pick your pumpkin ready to carve for the 31st? Don’t panic, Dunham Massey has got you covered. With over 20,000 pumpkins planted this year, from traditional orange to Ghost Rider pumpkins, there’s no excuse to go pumpkin-less. Head to their website to book a slot to hand-pick your very own orange friend.

October - November – Scare City Drive-in Cinema, Trafford If you really want to be spooked this Halloween, I suggest hopping in a car to the Trafford’s Soccer Dome. Here you’ll find an immersive experience of haunting live actors, and a drive-through scare tunnel, all whilst watching your favourite horror films. The site includes a fully licenced bar and food vendors, as well as plenty of photo opportunities for you and your friends. Showings are ongoing until mid-November so there’s no need to rush. Hopefully, these events have tickled your fancy or bubbled your cauldron, and you’re ready to head out for a spooktastic Halloween!

17 Ad

Photos: s_herman @ Flickr, travis @ Flickr, Daiki Tomidokoro @ Flickr, bm.iphone @flickr

ISSUE 3/ 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Support our Students We’re celebrating and supporting student creativity by bringing you four incredible projects that have been created by or for students Dulcie Scott - Lesbiyarns Shop Lesbiyarns is a crochet business started by Dulcie Scott and their girlfriend, Mae. After seeing other people post their crochet creations online, Dulcie decided they wanted to get involved. “I wanted to post my crochet stuff on Instagram really! I’d been following a few accounts like @gimme_kaya and @meghanhmakes for ages and they really inspired me.” Dulcie is a student at the University of Manchester, whilst Mae is a chef in Leeds. Together they crochet colorful hats, jumpers, bags, tops, and even earrings! All of their pieces are 100% vegan, sustainable and handmade.

“

I’m more focused on the creative side of it. I’m not really fussed about selling because I just really enjoy doing it!

Dhara Patel - Natsu Clothing and Natsu Fest From printing forty or so t-shirts in his school art department, Dhara Patel has gone on to create

between us towards the end of second year. By July of this year, I had decided that I wanted to go ahead with this

not only his own clothing brand Natsu Clothing, but also his very own Natsu Fest that he ran out of his student back garden this September. The name Natsu is a little nod to his family, ‘my Grandad on my Dad’s side of the family has the first name Nat, whilst my Mum’s side has the surname Sufraz’, but Natsu also means Summer in Kanji, Japanese, which was when the brand first launched. His clothes boast clean, minimalist graphics, as well as funky tie-dye patterns and soft, warm fleeces, so there’s something for everyone. “It was dormant for much of first year, but in second year I gave it a real go in Manchester, and it seems to have picked up the necessary traction which I’m proud of.” “There’s been times where I’ve had friends say they’ve walked to Sainsbury’s and seen a couple people wearing the clothes which has filled me with joy.” Not only are the clothes beautifully designed and of excellent quality, Dhara also aims to give back and support charities and local communities, something he will continue to do as long as Natsu Clothing exists. For each new product release, a portion of the profit is donated to a select charity. So far, he’s supported 42nd Street, the Yemen Crisis Appeal, and The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

idea because it was so new and ambitious and from then, August was filled with careful planning for Natsu Fest.” Dhara promoted the event on BBC Radio Manchester, and found Manchester-based artists through Manchester Student Group (MSG), giving them a platform and an opportunity to perform. 10% of all the profits made selling t-shirts on the day of Natsu Fest were also donated to Forever Manchester, a charity that raises money to fund and support community activity across Greater Manchester.

“

But on the day of the event, it was a great success in my eyes. Everyone had a load of fun and the artists all performed amazingly

And he didn’t stop there. After Longitude Festival was

“We found a duo called Saint Nusu and Messy Bao from MSG who came and performed and they were amazing, so shout out to them! Fast forward to September and we had clothing designs finalised, artists sorted, and tickets released.” “My friend and I travelled back and forth to Stockport to collect wooden pallets which we used to assemble a stage with wooden planks we had bought from B&Q, so there was a lot of hard work involved in organising Natsu Fest itself. But on the day of the event, it was a great success in my eyes. Everyone had a load of fun and the artists all performed amazingly.” There are even bigger things coming from Dhara and Natsu in the future. Next year, he plans Natsu Fest 2.0 to take place in an actual venue, and there will be a Winter collection of his clothing coming out before the end of this year.

called off, Dhara went on to run his very own Natsu Fest. “The idea started off as a joke between our friend group, but it started to gain a bit of traction as an idea

But for now, there are lots of designs for you to get your hands on available on their website: www.natsu.media You can follow Natsu on Instagram: @natsuclothinguk

“

There’s been times where I’ve had friends say they’ve walked to Sainsbury’s and seen a couple people wearing the clothes which has filled me with joy.

The intricacy of each design shows the care that goes into creating them, and the bold, beautiful colours make their clothes and accessories real statement pieces. Having time to crochet custom orders and run their business alongside being a busy student can’t be easy, but Dulcie’s obvious love for creating her designs shines through. “I make a lot of hats and jumpers for myself and for friends and family! I’m more focused on the creative side of it. I’m not really fussed about selling because I just really enjoy doing it!” You can support Dulcie and Mae by following their instagram @lesbiyarns

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

West Art Collective West Art Collective was started by six Manchester

artists:

Tuesday Takeover exhibitions. These projects

(@lucyindelicate),

unite art, music, performance, workshops

Mimi Waddington (@oovy__), Tom Kinloch (@

and so much more to celebrate creativity.

Lucy

based

Briscoe

contemporary

online exhibitions and the new project, the

Rimmer

“

tomkinloch), Shayley Crabtree (@sourtab), Jake Sachs (@sachrylic), and Josh Kelly (@joshkel_). After struggling to pay submission fees for

These projects unite art, music, performance, workshops and so much more to celebrate creativity

exhibitions, Lucy Briscoe Rimmer pitched a new idea to Antwerp Mansion: an art exhibition with no fees to submit and exhibit, as well as zero percent commission taken on any artwork sold. This exhibiting experience would be as accessible

West stands for an imperfect approach to

as possible to all those that wanted to participate.

contemporary art, leaving behind the by-the-

Her idea was snapped up, and Lucy

book art scene they found to be limiting whilst

has stood as Director of the Gallery and

they were at university. “We are just winging it and

West Art Collective ever since. Her idea is

hoping we are creating a space with less pressure

now a reality, with three successfully run

and more vibes.” The project gives creatives a

non-profit

place to exhibit, perform, run workshops, set

projects

since

“

September

2019.

up pop shops, host their own exhibitions and network with other like-minded artists. All of this

We are just winging it and hoping we create a space with less pressure and more vibes

is completely accessible for all and without cost. West Art Collective is now the resident collective at Antwerp Mansion, and they have some big events in store in the next year. You can find their calendar events and submit

The

Zero-Cost

Exhibition

Programme

allows artists to exhibit their work without

your artwork to any of their three projects via

their

website

westartcollective.com

having to pay, and is split into three unique

You can also follow West on instagram

projects: the F Me its Friday events, the Cyber

@westartcollective

Jim Marson & Daniel Hayes The Black Country Archive The

Black

Country

Archive

started

decision to produce their own clothing line.

as a lockdown hobby, with Jim Marson

“It has exceeded all our expectations with

selling high-end sportswear brands from

a strong sense of local Black Country pride

his Depop account, but has now grown

and community which we want to extend to

into a bespoke handmade clothing line.

new communities and into new avenues.”

The brand is now run by Jim and his friend Daniel Hayes, both born and bred in the Black Country and now studying in Manchester. Jim begun selling sportswear brands like Stone Island and C.P Company through Depop at the beginning of March 2020. “People who are

“

Our process begins with original designs often inspired by nostalgic British culture for everyone to identify with

aware of these brands heritage understand there is a rich culture built from football terraces and British music. This being something that

So far, the two have built up from creating

both Dan and I are passionate about we created

wardrobe basics to new bespoke designs. From

an Instagram page to supplement the vintage

creating their products by hand to recruiting their

shop and to blog about whatever we felt people

friends to help out with photoshoots, the passion

who shared our interests would appreciate.”

and love for the business is clear. “Our process

“

People who are aware these brands heritage understand there is a rich culture built from football terraces and British music

begins with original designs often inspired by nostalgic British culture for everyone to identify with. We then hand screen print our designs ourselves and cure for a permanent finish.” On their website, you can find both their handmade clothes as well as snazzy vintage clothes to kit out your wardrobe. You can support Jim and Dan by treating

Over time, The Black Country Archive

yourself to one of their unique t-shirts from

began to feel more and more like a brand,

theblackcountryachive.co.uk and by following

so Jim and Daniel took the leap, making the

them on Instagram @theblackcountryarchive

If you would like to see your own creative project shared in The Mancunion, please get in touch via mancuniondesigner@gmail.com

Follow independent creator @softerpeople on Instagram and check out her online shop www.softerpeople.co.uk

CULTURE

Music

CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

“Women to the Front!”: Black Honey Live Review Sarah Taylor Deputy Music Editor

nder the misty blue lights of Academy 2 , Brighton-based indie outfit Black Honey make their long-awaited return to Manchester. Over the years, the quartet have earned a reputation for their raucous live shows and rightly so. Lead singer Izzy B. Phillips is a force to be reckoned with, strutting about the stage, with her platinum feather-cut ‘do, and dressed in a ruby red floor-length dress and black platform boots. It’s a look fitting for such a formidable frontwoman, evoking icons such as Stevie Nicks, Kate Bush, and Marc Bolan. Earlier in the night, support is provided by DIY duo Arxx, who bring a combination of fist-pumping punk and indie-rock to Academy 2, along with shimmering bedroom pop artist Phoebe Green.

Black Honey begin their set with ‘I Like The Way You Die’, the stomping lead single from the band’s stellar sophomore record ‘Written & Directed’. Phillips oscillates between a sultry lilt and a snarl, all whilst wielding her trusty guitar. Clean-cut guitar licks and retro riffs also come courtesy of Chris Ostler and Tommy Taylor. Meanwhile Alex Woodward enhances each track with pulsing percussion.

“

There’s something decidedly cinematic about the latest Black Honey record, with its artwork even paying homage to the films of Quentin Tarantino. Corrine’ marks a poignant moment in the set, with Phillips clearly moved by the crowd’s continuing to sing where she leaves off. “I feel so lucky to be able to do this again”, she smiles. On the other hand, ‘All My Pride’ packs a punch with its pulsating instrumentals encouraging the audience to bounce along. “Women to the front!”, Phillips declares to overwhelming cheers midway through the band’s set. There is a clear emphasis on tonight’s show being a safe space for female gig-goers. Men visibly shuffle to the sides, making way for a plethora of young female fans who joyfully gather round the barrier. There’s something decidedly cinematic about the latest Black Honey record, with its artwork even paying homage to the films of Quentin Tarantino. This quality is amplified on stage, as Americana-inspired instrumentals resonate around the buzzing venue. The infectious hook of sugary indie-pop tune ‘Believer’ is echoed by the audience, whilst softer moments like ‘Dig’ and ‘Back of the Bar’ inspire awe. Riotous ‘Run For Cover’ closes Black Honey’s set and boy does it pack a punch! Sizzling guitar lines and pounding drums invoke a frenzy among the crowd, with Phillips jumping off the stage and right up to the barrier. Fans surge forward for a chance to share the mic with the songstress, before she dives straight into the crowd in its final third. Rock ‘n’ roll in its purest form. After the show, Black Honey head to the merchandise stand where they happily sign autographs and pose for photos with fans, with one such gig-goer having baked an ornate triple-tier cake for the band. In a somewhat bizarre but memorable turn of events, Phillips then proceeds to cut and hand out slices of cake to those who gather to watch. It’s a joy to see such an accomplished band interacting with their fans like this, and its certainly testament to their popularity. If their show at Academy 2 is anything to go by, Black Honey have cemented themselves as one of the most exciting live bands around.

Music 21

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ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

From Poly Styrene to Big Joanie

A Celebration of Black Women in Punk

Lucy Abbott explores the history of black female punk musicians and their underrepresentation in the mainstream.

Poly Styrene

Photo: CarlGuderian@Flikr

“

hen X-Ray Spex burst onto the music scene with their 1978 single ‘Oh Bondage, Up Yours!’, they represented the very essence of rebellion that punk symbolised. An energy that could only be maintained through their front woman Poly Styrene. A chaotic mixture of honking saxophone combined with a power-driven guitar and drum beat, all led by Styrene’s rallying screams against the oppression of women. Certainly, with her signature braces and ‘goofy’ style Styrene stepped away from the mainstream view of women in pop. As a biracial woman, Styrene was equally combating the constraints

“

led by Styrene’s rallying screams against the oppression of women

Our faces weren’t what the establishment wanted to define Britain Skin of Skunk Anansie

SKIN

Photo: Razzmatazz - Febero@ WikimediaCommons

“

of her race. She delves deep into what it means to be a mixed-race girl growing up in the UK and ideas of belonging on the track ‘Identity’. So far ahead of her time, Styrene brought attention to the intersectionality surrounding feminism, challenging the black and white views that placed women’s struggles into one box through her electrifying music.

he punk trendsetter was the first black headliner of Glastonbury but she’s still not as widely acknowledged for her creative impact as other rock musicians of the 1990s, a fact that rightfully annoys Skin. “We don’t get anywhere near the recognition we deserve,” she says, “because our faces weren’t what the establishment wanted to define Britain.” While the 90s punk scene may be known for its primarily white focused Riot-Grrrl movement, Skin positioned herself as a role model for young black British girls. Skin of the band Skunk Anansie is no stranger to combatting

the racial discrimination faced by black musicians in Britain. Describing Skunk Anansie’s music as ‘clit-rock’, Skin focused on mixing together heavy metal and black feminist rage in her art. Their 1995 hit ‘Intellectualise My Blackness’ hit back against the fetishization of black women by white men who attempted to white-wash their partners. The group were clearly influenced by the growth of 90s hip-hop. With the mix of electronic guitar riffs and Skin’s distinct, forceful voice, her music conveyed her as an unafraid and dominant figure in her genre.

There are so many people of colour that started Rock n’ Roll and Punk Steph Phillips of Big Joanie Photo: Razzmatazz - PaulHudson@ \Flikr

ig Joanie formed in London as an all black female group with the purpose of creating an intersectional space away from the white nature of the UK punk scene. Frontwoman Steph Phillips reflects on this lack of diversity arguing that “there are so many different people of colour that started rock and roll and punk.” Their distorted almost grungy guitar lines and haunting repetitive vocals on 2014’s ‘Dream No 9’ are steeped in ideas of isolation and being okay with being on your own as a woman. In forming their own label, Sistah Punk Records, they embodied this idea of complete independence. Within the heavily white-washed environment of modern punk, Big Joanie are firm

in not making their music palatable to white audiences, centring their music on black politics and inspiring the next generation. Despite influencing some of the most famous punk bands of the post1970s scene - Bikini Kill and Sonic Youth to name just two - and performing on Top Of The Pops, X-Ray Spex are criminally underrated. Their limited number of interviews are overshadowed by the dominating white male bands of the genre, such as the Sex Pistols. This legacy continues today with ma jor rock festivals (*cough* Reading and Leeds *cough*) being overwhelmingly headlined by white men. Black women in punk are continually ignored and have to fight harder for their voices to be heard despite

their historical impact on the genre. It’s ironic that in a scene known for its counter-cultural rebellion, those that have the most to protest are sidelined for the more privileged. It can only be hoped that with the access social media gives, new black female led punk bands will find it easier to continue to form new spaces in the music world without reliance on large record labels. A true reflection of the DIY aesthetics of punk. There’s only so many artists I could focus on, but from Tamar Kali to Skinny Girl Diet there’s a whole world of amazing musicians to check out. So why not give some more love to the real brilliance that black women in punk have to offer!

Music

CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Celebrating our favourite music this

Black History Month

The Mancunion Music Section contributors share their musical recommendations in celebration of Black History Month Photo: NovaTwinsLtd@WikimediaCommons

Nova TwinsMaddy Oxley For Fans Of: Yonoka, Enter Shikari, Wargasm

ova Twins are a rock duo from London, formed in 2014. The band consists of Amy Love as vocalist and guitarist, and Georgia South on bass. Since releasing their debut album Who

Are The Girls? in February 2020, the band have won Best U.K. Breakthrough Band at the 2020 Heavy Music Awards , Best Video for their track ‘Taxi’ at the 2021 awards, featured on Bring Me the Horizon ’s

KoffeeIzzy Langhammer

most recent album, and supported them on their UK tour this September. The band have been signed to Fever 333 ’s record label ‘333 Wreck fords crew’ since late 2019, after touring with them earlier that year. Photo: MykalCushnie@WikimediaCommons

For Fans Of: Chronixx, Daniel Caesar

t only 21 years old, Koffee is already making a big splash on the music scene. She was the youngest person to win Best Reggae Album at the Grammy ’s (and

only woman), and has performed at huge festivals such as Parklife . In fact, it was at Parklife where I first came across her; a blistering burst of talent, commanding the stage

Photo: JosephOkpako@WireImage

with her chilled rapping style. Dynamic and holding the audience in the palm of her hand, she was one of the most engrossing acts at the festival.

Little SimzRobbie Beale For Fans Of: Kano, Ghetts, Dave

ittle Simz is the most exciting artist in the UK right now. Latest album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert is an expansive contrast to previous masterpiece

GREY Area , dealing with themes of family, womanhood and heritage. Although some of its more conceptual elements don’t quite hit the mark, it breaks new ground musi-

Arlo ParksAlannah Williams

cally, incorporating afrobeat bops amongst soulful hip hop. Please go see her live if you get the chance, and give SIMBI a spin this month.

Photo: WFUVPublicRadio@Flikr

For Fans Of: The Internet, Steve Lacy, Solange

merging through the music scene in early 2019 with her poetic lamentations and soulful vocals, Arlo Parks has cemented herself as one of the most influential female-identifying musicians

this side of the pond. Teeming with wistful instrumentation, Park’s sonic explorations deliver a ray of light through her flavourful and bright nuances.

sive ‘For Violet’ and heavily atmospheric ‘Just Go’. Park’s honeyed vocals lend a comforting shoulder through her sentimental ruminations set on offering a helping hand to struggling fans.

Standout tracks include the immerPhoto: NRKP3@Flikr

Chance the RapperReece Ritchie For Fans Of: Kanye West, Amine, Saba, Childish Gambino

first discovered Chance the Rapper through his first on Snakehips’ track ‘All my friends’ . Chance’s verse was so infectious it had me hooked aged 15. It was

my first real experience of hip hop outside of Eminem and the top 40. Chance is Chicago rap at its best, the first artist to win a Grammy for a mixtape with Coloring Book .

Loyle CarnerElise Ambrose For Fans Of: Barney Artist, Tom Misch and Mr Jukes

man who’s music is deep rooted into his family and upbringing in Croydon . Expressing his art through poetry read aloud by his mum Jean (whose voice fans are all too familiar with), or

crafting songs around samples of music written by his late dad. He openly discusses his experiences with ADHD, dyslexia and dealing with love and loss. I just can’t get enough of his infectious energy

and beautifully honest and witty lyricism, and I think his work is something really special that deserves to be heard.

Everything about ‘Chayno’s’ music is filled with joy. He often incorporating soul and gospel into his tracks his music is the perfect contrast to Manchester’s rainy streets!

Photo: NicholasVolker@WikimediaCommons

ISSUE 3/ 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

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Books 23

How to be a genius: MacArthur fellowship winner Ibram X Kendi

Ava Innes takes a look at How to be an Antiracist, following Ibram X Kendi receipt of the MacArthur ‘genius grant’

Ava Innes Books Writer

bram X Kendi is an American historian who was awarded the MacArthur so-called ‘genius grant’ last month for his work on racism in the US. The MacArthur Fellowship is a five-year grant to individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits, with no strings attached. To honour Kendi’s said genius, I read his 2019 book How to be an Antiracist. Born in Queens, New York City, Kendi was, as he outlines in his book, a child unsure of his own intellect. After attending multiple different junior schools, largely due to racist staff, Kendi completed a degree in African American Studies and Magazine Production from Florida A&amp;M University. He then went on to gain an M.A and Ph.D in African American Studies from Temple University. Kendi is now a Professor at Boston University, as well as director of the university’s Centre for Antiracist Research. The $625,000 grant will go towards furthering his groundbreaking research. How to be an Antiracist is a beautifully crafted blend of history, biography and radical activism. Kendi writes in an inviting and concise way, weaving the personal and political together. He demonstrates the lived reality of racism as well as its long history, whilst demanding

from the reader an answer to a clear question: will you be a racist, or an antiracist?

“How to be an Antiracist is a beautifully crafted blend of history, biography and radical activism.” The book, perhaps surprisingly, opens with a discussion of Kendi’s own racism. Describing a speech he gave as a young high school graduate, he highlights how he internalised racist ideas, endorsing the idea that Black people needed to ‘better themselves’. This “assimilationist” creed becomes an important talking point in the book, as Kendi describes the “duelling consciousness” people of all races experience. For racialised groups, this “consciousness” is formed from a battle between “antiracist” and the aforementioned “assimilationist” urges. By assimilation, Kendi means the idea that a racial group must improve themselves in order to fit in with society, which in other words means White society. He describes how this was a particularly infectious idea among his parent’s generation, who became wrongly convinced that it was Black people themselves who were holding each other back from better lives. Kendi argues that being an antiracist is the only way to free oneself from this “duelling consciousness”. Kendi’s definitions of antiracism and racism are radical. He argues that these are not fixed terms that

denote someone’s identity, but rather fluid descriptors that anyone can adopt at any time. He is also clear that there is no in-between, there is no neutral middle ground. To be racist is to endorse racist policy and attitudes either through action or inaction. To be antiracist is to actively work against this. By locating these labels in action, and leaving them open to anyone, Kendi leaves no room for laziness. He is telling you clearly How to be an Antiracist.

“By locating these labels in action, and leaving them open to anyone, Kendi leaves no room for laziness”

Kendi particularly emphasises how racism is essentially linked to power. He argues for a focus on what he terms “racist power”, which is comprised of “racist policy and racist policymakers”. For Kendi, there is no “neutral policy”: every policy has a racial outcome. The idea of “race neutrality” thus becomes a dangerous concept: like ‘colourblindness’, it exempts people from antiracist action, and therefore endorses racism. How to be an Antiracist, although framed as a guide into race politics, demonstrates clearly how we are all, constantly, partaking in it. Kendi provides the reader with a variety of tools, from historical knowledge to concise definitions of political terminology. The real power, however, lies with the reader and our active choice to become antiracist

Photo: Wikimedia commons @ Stephen Voss

ISSUE ISSUE 3 / 25th 2021 2021 3 /October 25th October WWW.MANCUNION.COM WWW.MANCUNION.COM

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9 Theatre 23

CULTURE CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

FROM DRAG RACE TO DEATH DROP: Alex Bikard interviews RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under star Karen from Finance about her role in the murder mystery play Death Drop. Alexandra Bikard Fashion Editor

eath Drop is an excitingly camp and comedic murder mystery written by Holly Stars and starring a cast of exclusively drag performers, including William, Ra’Jah O’Hara, Vinegar Strokes, and Karen from Finance. The show, set in 1991, sees a group of guests gather on the mysterious Tuck Island for an unforgettable dinner party. As the outrageous guests reveal their suspicious pasts, tension rises until buzzing scenes of finger-pointing and speculations unnervingly reveal who dunnit! The Mancunion had the opportunity to interview RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under star Karen from Finance on her new role in this exciting, new drag murder mystery. How did you get involved in the project? I’ve met some of the production crew on one of my last trips to the UK, and I’ve been looking from afar at the genesis of Death Drop and it all coming together. How has it been playing in front of an audience? It just has been the most fun. Holly Stars has written not only the funniest show but also the most clever show. There’s a lot of giggles and laughs, but the way it’s put together and the way the story unfolds is really really clever. It’s also such a huge and incredible production as well, and with the amazing cast delivering it, it’s a fully exhilarating experience to be part of and a thrilling show to watch.

Karen from Finance

Could you talk more about your role? I play one of the dinner guests at the house in which the play is set. Her name is Morgan Pierce, an infamous newspaper editor and a lil bit of a ‘nasty pasty’. Can we recognise some of Karen from Finance in Morgan Pierce or are they completely separate? They’re completely separate. I like to say that Karen from Finance is this lovable finance worker that works at the bottom of the department while Morgan Pierce is a fierce CEO. The characters are very different so I play them quite differently. It’s so much fun being given license a free rain to go in and be a villainess. How have you found the UK? I love the UK! This is my fourth time over here, it’s such a vibrant and exciting place, not only to be but also the drag scene as well. Australia is still in strict lockdown, so it’s been an absolute blessing, not only to work again but to work hard. How does the drag scene in the UK compare to Australia? The drag scene here is really forwardthinking and very diverse and very exciting. I have always found that the drag scene in the UK is a lot more cabaret-based. It’s a lot less about lip-syncing and having the most beautiful look but rather about characterization and performance which is really exciting for me. It’s been amazing getting to know and getting to work with Drag Kings on this show. The Drag King scene is a lot more popular here than it is back in Australia. I’ve been out to nights at The Box or The Glory. There’s been a huge surge in new drag content. What do you think might happen within drag in the near future? I think the possibilities that drag offers are endless. I think now with the widespread acceptance and understanding of drag, we’re just going to see it grow and grow and grow. And not in formats that we already know like film or tv but I like to think that it will surpass even that. What do you see Karen from Finance becoming in the future? Doing a show like Death Drop has been a dream of mine forever, and so to be realising that sort of dream already is so exciting, and I’m looking to work more in the realm of theatre. Of course, I’m already part of the cabaret scene back home, but I’m

really looking to explore further the realm of drama and just explore everything that drag has to offer outside of clubs. About your name: ‘Karen from Finance’ has an obvious meaning and a lot tied to it. Do you find it restrictive at times to have such a strict persona? I see it as the complete opposite; I don’t see it as restrictive at all. It gives me a point of difference and has opened up so many doors and opportunities that I otherwise wouldn’t have considered. The specific character and name that I have come up with has allowed me to do things like representing a banking organisation at a makeup festival because I bring makeup and finance together. I have been booked to go to major company headoffices at the end of financial years and entertain by reading end-of-year reports. The opportunities that my character offers are really not restrictive in any way. They’re broad, if anything. How was it being part of the very first RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under season? It was a major privilege. Me and the 9 other queens went in without knowing what to expect and we had a lovely time doing the show and a lovely time reaping the benefits of doing the show after it. How significant do you think it was for Oceania to have Drag Race come over? It has to an extent split the community. There are those that didn’t really want Drag Race to come because it does focus on a very specific part of the drag scene, but on the other hand, Australia has some amazing drag performers and amazing people that would definitely benefit from the exposure of such a show. How impactful do you think a show like Death Drop is to the drag scene as a whole? I don’t think the world has ever seen a touring Drag murder mystery like this before, but most importantly, we are taking this show to towns that have never seen something like this before. We are doing the big cities but then we are also going to places that don’t usually have a queer scene, and there are queer people everywhere. Apart from having the shows in these places, having the posters and the billboards advertising for it is really exciting for young queer people. It really shows the opportunities that are out there for queer people. Death Drop plays at The Lowry until Saturday 17th October before continuing to tour around the UK. For more drag-related content, head online to read Theatre Editor Jay Darcy's review of Death Drop and my review of Priscilla Queen of the Desert!

Photo Credit: Matt Crockett

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

CULTURE

Photocredit: The Pizzagate Massacre, John Valley, Grimmfest Approved Stills

Film

THE PIZZAGATE MASSACRE If you have read or watched enough American media you would probably have heard of the Pizzagate conspiracy theory. Unfortunately, Grimmfest’s The Pizzagate Massacre is intentionally misleading. The film sets up an interesting premise. Duncan, an unemployed middle-aged man, lives in his van and, alongside Karen, a journalist who has recently been fired, attempts to investigate a sex ring operating out of a pizza restaurant in Texas. However, disaster soon strikes as Duncan kills several people and struggles to make progress on his case. Karen is also a flawed character who is dismissively silent throughout and does little to progress the plot. A dramatic ending was not enough to make up for the hour and a half of bad jokes and nonexistent horror. Mysteriously, this film made it into the Grimmfest lineup having been classed as an action comedy by IMDB.

Mila Filipova Film Contributer

2/5

There is an attempt to ridicule and mock conspiracy theory believers in general, but the humour is too weak and clunky to achieve any real point. Similar to the 2019 zombie comedy The Dead Don’t Die, the film attempts to use humour to relieve some of the pressure of an apocalyptic situation. However, because The Pizzagate Massacre is so lacking in tension or convincing danger, its comedy falls flat and fails to even make the odd sex cult storyline feel engaging. It is a shame that the execution of this bland film couldn’t live up to the intrigue of the real world conspiracy. Disappointing and flat, The Pizzagate Massacre fails to provide either horror or sympathy for its repellent characters.

Photocredit: The Righteous, courtesy of Grimmfest

THE RIGHTEOUS Jason Fox Film Contributer

4/5

I’ve always been a fan of religiousthemed horror films. There is something really frightening about the evil stemming from something as powerful as god. It allows filmmakers to be really creative and express something that can’t often be expressed; horror that extends beyond the laws of conventional reality. The Righteous, directed by Mark O’Brien, is a very good example of this. The film focuses on a former priest whose world falls apart following the death of his daughter. A series of strange, unearthly horrors follow, seemingly all stemming from the anger of ‘god’. The result is far from flawless, but manages to be one of the most imaginative horrors in recent memory Where most films of a similar niche take inspiration from the likes of the The Exorcist and The Omen, The Righteous is very different. Its influence, particularly in terms of aesthetics, comes from outside the horror genre. Whilst the film is nightmarishly dark, it draws from a particular sub genre of film about priests questioning their faith. This mixing of genres

constitutes some of its most interesting thematic content. What starts off as a nightmarish retelling of the book of Job turns into something even more unsettling, with the audience ultimately left to decide whether the protagonist deserves their sympathy. Its minimalist aesthetic also therefore enables it to turn from an inward chamber piece into something vast, cosmic and psychologically harrowing. Visually speaking, it is very impressive. Shot entirely in black and white, it uses minimalistic framing and high contrast lighting to create a feeling of detached intimacy, while also alluding to a supernatural presence. Most impressive is how The Righteous avoids using traditional horror tropes to elicit cheap thrills. Instead it’s slow burn feel allows its horror to creep up on you and speak for itself. Combined with its excellent pacing, the film gets steadily more nightmarish as it goes on and it feels completely natural in doing so. The Righteous is a well made and inspired horror film that promises much from its young director. With strong performances from everyone involved, stunning black and white cinematography and an unrelenting tone of absolute dread, this is a film that should not be missed.

Photocredit: Slapface actors Mirabelle Lee (left) and August Maturo (right), photo by Benjamin KlauberGriffiths @ The Mancunion

Frederick Crane-Robinson Film Contributer

4/5

Despite starring in the film, actors Mirabelle Lee and August Maturo were too young to watch their recent film Slapface at its UK premiere. Slapface follows Lucas (August Maturo), a young orphan struggling in school. Bullied by the unpleasant twins in the neighbourhood, Lucas retreats into his own world and plays in the forbidden woods near his home. Stumbling upon Virago (Lukas Hassel), a witch rumoured to live in the forest, Lucas begins to form a bond with this strange figure as his struggles at home increase. Director Jeremiah Kipp took a very hands-on approach to work with younger actors, reports actress Mirabelle Lee when The Mancunion spoke to the two lead actors earlier this week. Backstories and plot details were often decided on set. Similarly, Maturo reported that Kipp was very receptive to going off-script.

SLAPFACE A crucial moment towards the end of the film was apparently the lead actor’s idea, a scene that allows many of Slapface’s social criticisms to transcend the film and reach audiences. A horror lover himself, Maturo relished the chance to put his acting talents to the test alongside his now close friend, and talented performer Lee. Kipp’s unusual directorial style certainly stands out. A cerebral and often baffling plot leaves audiences more confused than gratified. However, impressive performances from its young stars drive the story forward despite its structural flaws. The two left us with a parting piece of advice for any wannabe actors; expect to get a lot of no’s but don’t let that affect you. “Keep turning up, going to classes, and doing what you love”. An important message for everyone.

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CULTURE

Photocredit: The Spore, courtesy of Grimmfest Photo: @GRIMMFEST

Jason Fox Film Contributer

Spore

THE GUEST ROOM Tobias Soar Film Contributer

4/5

Though it may be described as ‘dramathriller’ on IMDb, the opening shot of Stephano Lodovichi’s The Guest Room confirms its horror credentials. An Italian language film, The Guest Room or La Stanza is an entertaining, if at times obvious watch. Decked out in the tattered remains of her old wedding dress, leading lady Stella (played by Camilla Fillipi) begins the film teetering precariously on the windowsill of her crumbling Gothic mansion. Ready to plunge into the white abyss below she is interrupted by a knock at the door. It is a man who insists he has booked a room, despite Stella not having run a guest house for many years. She relents and lets him in from the rain. However, as the film unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that this man may not be as much of a stranger as previously thought, but a manifestation of some buried guilt or repressed secret. His return enacts a Photocredit: Photo: @GRIMMFEST Blast, courtesy of Grimmfest

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

2/5

SPORE

It seems unsurprising that a film like The Spore came out recently. As an obvious response to the Covid-19 pandemic, it focuses on a world ravaged by a deadly fungal infection that takes over the human body and turns people into a zombie state. This film certainly has its moments. Director D.M. Cunningham brings a visual flair that allows for some truly striking, and shocking, imagery. Unfortunately, this film takes itself far too seriously for what it is trying to be. It is hampered by weak characterisation and unambitious storytelling that doesn’t go anywhere, preventing it from being anything more than just a forgettable slasher. The most impressive part of this film is definitely the visual aspect. It pays visual homage to a number of body horror films, most notably The Thing, but is so lacking in character that it fails to have any real originality. Cunningham clearly knows how to use colour and it contributes to quite a vivid aesthetic. This makes the use of practical effects all the more impressive. For something that starts off like a relatively

standard zombie movie, the stunning practical effects give you a real sense of the impact of this infection on the human body, and by extension, the psyche. There are some truly horrible moments where people realise their inevitable death as they are slowly consumed by the fungus. The film would be far more interesting if it had focused more on this, and less on trying to emulate other, better slasher films. Poor dialogue alienates the audience. The characters feel one dimensional and painfully rehearsed. For a film that tries to show, in part at least, the human impact of this plague, it is unable to present people in a way that feels believable. The Spore resorts to generic clichés to cover these cracks. The result is something quite forgettable and a bit disappointing. It exists within an apocalyptic tradition of horror films but does nothing new to differentiate itself from that tradition. Despite at times posing some interesting questions, The Spore ultimately sets up more than it can deliver on. The nucleus of a good film is certainly there but its unambitious cliches make it a mediocre watch at best..

Helen Stott Film Contributer

Blast

dark justice and forces Stella and her exhusband (Edoardo Pesce) to pay for a terrible crime committed many years ago. If that doesn’t sound enough like the plot of an Edgar Allan Poe novella then don’t worry, the gorgeous Gothic set-design and harrowing score firmly place this film within the horror genre. The film successfully avoids falling for cheap thrills. The violence on screen is realistic, brutal and troubling. Guido Caprino, who plays the guest, is particularly spectacular in the role. His ability to shift from innocent to menacing leaves the audience constantly on edge. And, subsequently, unsure how to feel about him throughout the first act of the film. However, the plot does at times lose focus around the second act of the film. This is most noticeable in the rather heavy handed reveal of who this mysterious guest is. On the whole though, The Guest Room is an emotionally compelling and reality-bending story and a valuable contribution to the horror genre.

4/5

French director Vanya Peirani Vignes’ debut feature, Blast, premiered this year at Grimmfest. The thriller proves a tense and provocative watch. It constantly pushes its main characters to their limit while forcing them to confront gutwrenching decisions. The film follows a bomb disposal expert whose life and family are threatened by a bomb planted under their car. Locked inside with her two children, protagonist Sonia (Nora Arnezeder) has 30 minutes to disarm the threat and escape the impending blast. Vignes merges thrills with interesting political commentary and elevates the genre beyond mere ‘copaganda’. However, at times the film’s politics are unclear and a little clunky. In conversation with The Mancunion, Vignes cites a real life conversation with a bomb disposal expert as his inspiration for the premise. Vignes was fascinated by this person who could muster near perfect self control in the face of imminent death, knowing that their “first mistake may be their last”. He cites films such

as Kathryn Bigelow’s 2008 war epic The Hurt Locker as an influence. However, he wanted to put his own spin on things. As a seasoned professional, we asked Vignes if he had any advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry . He praised the utility of the mobile phone camera in allowing people to make films and access editing software with virtually no budget. He also advised that for one’s first filmmaking endeavour it might be best to work creatively with one single location and a minimal cast. Clearly he has taken his own advice in Blast as the film remains in one place throughout. On screenwriting, Vignes stresses that once you have an original idea that sparks joy, it is imperative to not wait for the script to come to you, but to sit down and write a little bit every few days. Blast is a thoroughly enjoyable thriller and a fantastic first entry for the French director.

CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

THE BETA TEST STRUGGLES TO BE ALPHA The second week of October brought with it goosebumps and scares to Manchester, as Grimmfest filled the Odeon screening rooms with its wide program of horror features and short films. Among the countless titles, the English premiere of the new feature film The Beta Test, by Jim Cummings and PJ McCabe, stood out as one of the most promising and highly anticipated movies. Set in a sleazy vision of Los Angeles, the movie tells the story of Jordan, a newly engaged Hollywood agent. All seems to be going well for him until he receives an anonymous purple letter inviting him to a sexual encounter with a secret admirer. Filled to the brim with bloated, toxic masculinity, sinister lies and shallow charm, The Beta Test tries to present itself as a mix of high-paced thriller and black comedy. Co-director PJ McCabe spoke to The Mancunion before the film’s premiere. He accredited the film’s strange mix of genres to the two authors’ need to insert comic lines in the stories they write, no matter the subject. The two wrote together a lot and spent several months on the script. Describing the writing process, McCabe said that they spent time reciting it to each other to test reactions to funny lines, and podcasted its reading in order to understand the right tone and reach a balanced rhythm. The result is a gory and heart-pounding first scene, which promises to

Giorgia Ravera Film Contributer

2/5

deliver on thrills, comedy and excitement of a cult horror film. However, it very quickly descends into a predictable and unemotional strain. When the camera dollies in on the plot and the characters’ lives, all the story’s potentiality gets washed away by a lack of precise intent. What could have been a sexy cocktail of psychological thriller mixed with the satiric portrait of the Hollywood drama becomes a vague and unambitious window into a man whose life is crumbling around him. Jordan’s toxically masculine ego is perhaps the most intouging element of the film. His mask of perfection covers a repellant cruelty. Jordan’s whitened teeth become symbolic of The Beta Test’s central comment as the film hides the rotten dentition of America’s rotten underbelly with the sparkling veneers of Hollywood consumerism. Of note are the suitably unpleasant performances of the main actors. McCabe himself shines as a lively and self-driven businessman. Unfortunately, neither the writing, nor the plot development are up to this standard. Instead all we get is an incomplete picture of American high society decaying from within. The film lacks the horror and thrill promised in the first scene. Rather, the mystery of this anonymous purple letter takes us on a long and meandering journey to nowhere.

Film

GRIMMFEST 2021

Photocredit: The Beta Test Struggles to be Alpha, courtesy of Grimmfest

Jacob Marshall Film Contributer

3/5

“I’m sure this is a typical Saturday night for you, but I’m just trying to get through this without vomiting” Stars AJ Bowen (Russel) and Sophie Dalah (Charlotte) begrudgingly collaborate to outdrive their demons in this increasingly muddled thriller. For the most part, Night Drive follows an Uber driver along an unusually eventful night. The film pushes the boundaries of both the expectations of the audience and the protagonists themselves. Whilst the second act of the film presents itself as a needlessly gory dark ‘comedy’, the final act packs a sci-fi-like twist that unnecessarily re-contextualises the film hitherto. Russel comes across more as an aged Ryan Reynolds stunt-double than convincing hero. Charlotte brings a more animated presence to the screen yet even she can’t rescue the boring and unrealistic dialogue.

Night Drive The first striking thing about Night Drive is how well Brad Baruh and Meghan Leon have managed to capture the essence of a late-night drive. Despite its uneven pacing, bland script, and random Christmas backdrop, the long shots of the LA evening and the ambience of passing traffic are pitch-perfect. Most of the cinematic tension is fuelled by a combination of Dalah’s erratic behaviour and the fear of uncertainty. Characters’ motives are unclear or obfuscated, whilst underwhelming twists are so common that the plot feels almost secondary to the chemistry of the cast. A lack of focus, inconsistent theming and a low budget leaves the sense of an unfulfilled vision. The film spans a wide but not so deep emotional and conceptual space. One can’t help but feel that with a tighter script and more balanced pacing, Baruh and Leon could have had a seriously witty and unique project.

Photocredit: Night Drive, courtesy of Grimmfest

Daniel Collins Film Contributer

3/5

A Spanish language film loosely inspired by a Colombian myth, Tarumama tells the story of a family attempting to heal its fractured relationships by taking a trip to a cabin in the woods. The folktale tells of a mother who loses her child in the fast-flowing river currents and is said to have haunted the rural forests ever since. The longer the film goes on, the more audiences can see the parallels between the modern day drama and the ancient cultural tale. The trauma of the mother’s earlier life begins to seep into their everyday struggles. Using evocative visual horror to document the growing tensions between the married couple and their two children, the inevitable disaster of the film becomes painfully obvious. Combined with elements of more abstract and atmospheric horror, this messy reality of family life is central to the story. Tarumama uses this to explore themes of postpartum depression and the potential burdens of parenthood. Paula Castaño delivers a layered and emotional lead performance which draws into focus the

Tarumama challenging nature of the film’s thematic core. However, as the film progresses, the slow-burn horror of the first act gives way to more traditional supernatural effects. All too quickly this tense and profound drama gives way to demonic possession and stock images of vulnerable children and dimly lit basement jump scares. Furthermore, the horror elements of the film are bland at best. Rarely used to true effect it never appears interested in expanding upon the themes of the first two acts. Instead, tension and fear is thrown about without much care and lose any interesting social or familial commentary so that the characters can be brought to a disappointing conclusion within the confines of a classical story arc. Overall, the film is at its best when grounded in its familial drama. Tarumama fails to impress in its final act which feels all too generic and abandons its complex approach to trauma for a wholly uninspired ending.

Photocredit: The Spore, courtesy of Grimmfest

Photocredit: Dark woods @ Piqsels

Food 28

CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

The Blues Kitchen: A Dream Come Blue

Izzy Langhamer reviews Blues Kitchen, an American inspired restaurant and bar, well-known for its live music and upstairs club

Izzy Langhamer Food Writer

Photo @ The Mancunion

bright neon sign guides you down Quay Street to The Blues Kitchen, one of the best places in Manchester to spend a Friday night. With its sumptuous decor, a constant hubbub of chatter and a menu that puts most to shame, it’s no wonder that Blues is packed out. Busy yes, but the staff here don’t seem fazed. In fact, they whizz around the room like skaters on ice, depositing a drink here and a smile there with professional ease. When we ordered at the bar, our drinks were brought smoothly to our table- no need to lift a finger with this level of service. This was just the start to our Blues experience, which left us as content and stuffed as after Christmas dinner. To start we ordered four cocktails between us, a far cry from our usual vodka lemonades. At an eye-watering £10.50 they’re certainly not cheap, but as a special treat they were exquisite. I had the Marmalade Cup, with real marmalade in, which was as sweet and comforting as a

hug from Paddington bear. Our other favourites throughout the night were the silky smooth Espresso Martini which was the best we’ve ever tried, as well as the Hurricane which came with the wow factor of a trip to Havana itself. Later, we tried the Pinot Grigio because I once read that every good restaurant should have a wine around the £20 mark! At £23.90, this wine was dry and refreshing, the perfect companion to the meal. Drinks wise, Blues really delivers. The menu at Blues hones in on its New Orleans theme. We started with the buffalo cauliflower, a deliciously spicy dish that ended on a sweet note. We paired this with the rich and creamy spinach and artichoke dip served with blue corn tortillas - our advice is to dip the cauliflower into the spinach for a real taste sensation. Blue is known for its burgers, and to its credit they were mouthwateringly soft, particularly its vegan burger. Stray further down the menu though, and treat yourself to the beef brisket. Flavoursome and moist, the brisket is a must-try for meateaters. Side-wise, we had the mac ‘n’ cheese and the cornbread

with honey butter. Whilst both tasty, they were perhaps the most average dishes we tried. Far from ordinary was the white chocolate and ginger cheesecake, resplendent with caramelised bananas. The perfect finisher, it was light, creamy and gingerbread sweet. If you’ve really got a sweet tooth, we suggest the vegan chocolate milkshake. It slides down your throat as smoothly as a happy hour pint at Friendship, and is just as refreshing!

“Drinks wise, Blues really delivers.”

By this point, we were as comfortable as four plump pillows, and headed up to the club area. The club is free in Blues, and well worth a trip. Livelier than most clubs and far nicer an environment, we’ll certainly be returning soon! The music that night was mostly soul and pop, making for a vibrant, dancy atmosphere. Red and orange light played across the faces of the crowd as the live music from below echoed up. As one of my friends put it: it blue us away!!

Photo @ The Mancunion

Photo: Unsplash @ Samuel Regan-Asante

CULTURE

ISSUE 3 / 25th October 2021 WWW.MANCUNION.COM

Fashion 29

Searching for a Halloween costume? TikTok is here to help Don’t know what to wear for Halloween? We searched through all the newest trends to find the best costumes for this year’s spooky season

Letycja Oczkowicz Fashion Writer

very year as October approaches, there’s one topic on everyone’s lips: Halloween. Party decorations and a good costume are crucial to making the spookiest night of the year unique and memorable. It’s not always easy to come up with a costume idea, but luckily social media is serving harder than ever with costume ideas for everyone. TikTok has been a particularly fruitful source of inspo as creators of the platform showcase a myriad of costume ideas with the associated clothing pieces and make-up tutorials to complete the looks. TikTok is also rife with predictions for which costumes will be the top hits of Halloween 2021. What will be this year’s Harley Quinn? We have done the scrolling so you don’t have to, and without further ado, here are our favourite costume ideas for Halloween 2021:

Bratz doll Y2K comeback has made a huge comeback and Bratz dolls have also gained back their old glory. All of us who grew up with a “passion for fashion” agree that Bratz dolls serve as everlasting inspo. But how does one recreate the iconic Bratz look? There is no singular way of doing - therefore, outfit options for Bratz are endless. However, there are a few pieces that scream ‘Bratz’ no matter how you put them together. Chunky shoes are a must. Knee-high boots, platform boots, pretty much any kind that reminisces the Y2K aesthetic. And for the core pieces? Go with a shiny mini skirt and a furry top. Or a shiny top and a furry mini skirt. Either way, these textures are the most essential elements of a classic Bratz look. But the options don’t stop there! Denim skirts, co-ord sets, low-rise flares, corset tops - all of these can be used! Other go-to’s are big hoops, skinny scarfs, funky sunglasses, shoulder bags, and a baker boy cap.

Fairy Fairycore took over TikTok’s fashion spotlight with its glittery, magical aura. The aesthetic stands out for its uniqueness, delicacy, and mystery. Netflix’s adaptation of Nickelodeon’s Winx Club was a major disappointment for fashion fans. However, it was also a catalyst for new, more colourful interpretations of the characters on TikTok which took influence from the original animated series. This began a new era for the fairy trend. How to embody a dainty magical creature? With glitter. Glitter and wings are two crucial elements to become a real-life fairy. Don’t spare the sparkles, use them in your make-up look and on your hair. The more glitter the better: you must shine and shimmer! You also need a dress. The phrase ‘fairy dress’ is surely familiar to you at this point, but let us paint the picture: a tulle dress with embroidered flowers, little puff sleeves, and ribbons. Make sure to style it with wings and a flower crown!

Space Girl After Doja Cat’s album Planet Her was bestowed upon us, the internet went crazy for aliens. And I’m not talking about the typical idea of an alien: a slimy green creature with tentacles. The space girl costume that went viral on TikTok indicates that the look is out of this world. Bodypaint, a colourful wig, and metallic pieces are a must! Accessories that will elevate your look all the way to space are head boppers and a space gun

Cowgirl Animal print was more popular than ever in 2021. Most trends come and go, but this one, in particular, remains firmly on the fashion scene. If your closet contains pieces like a cowboy hat, a cow print skirt, a belt, cowboy boots, or a flannel shirt, you’re good to go. You could also recreate the iconic cowgirl look that went viral on the internet after Cassie in HBO’s teen drama series Euphoria dressed up as Alabama Worley in the Halloween episode.

Mermaid Don’t worry, it isn’t the early 2010s and I’m not suggesting you regress to mermaidmoustache core. The mermaid costume that continues to gain popularity on TikTok is probably the easiest one to recreate and make a splash at any party. After a huge comeback of 70s fashion, everybody owns a pair of flares. If you combine your flares with a bikini top and body jewellery, you’re partyready! To achieve a spectacular mermaid make-up look you need some fishnet tights and eyeshadow. Place the fishnet over the area you want to decorate on your face and tap eyeshadow over the top for a scaley effect. Add some gems to make it pop out and blow the costume competition out of the water.

Pirate If all the previous costume suggestions seem a bit girly for you, why not try a pirate? Inspired by Keira Knightley as the iconic Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean, a pirate look is not only trendy but also recognizable and fun. Pieces that fit the ‘pirate core’ aesthetic are a white puff sleeve shirt, corset top, a bandanna, fishnets, and a ton of gold jewellery! Add some black boots and a pirate hat and say ahoy to high sea realness.

Photo: Letycja Oczkowicz @ The Mancunion

Horoscopes 25.10.21 - 08.11.21 Fortnightly Astrological Prophecies from Catherine Shatwell (charlatan in training)

Sagittarius (23.11 - 21.12)

Capricorn (22.12 - 19.01) Mercury rules over the Third House and Communication, for you

What? You do extra reading for your course? No,

solutions to problems. Be aware of others telling you

this is in Capricorn, your sun sign. This makes you a natural orator

I didn’t ask. I don’t care. No one does.

that your ideas are stupid because they probably are.

and encourages you to talk. Don’t. Everyone wants you to shut up.

Pisces (20.02 - 20.03)

You have your camera on in online lectures - the

Aries (21.03 - 20.04)

Bold. A born adventurer. We all really ‘love’ hearing

Taurus (21.04 - 20.05)

equivalent of sitting at the front and interupting

about where you went travelling and how you found

Everyone in prison is a Taurus.

because the professor said something wrong.

yourself. That glazed look is just people in awe of you.

Typically a Sagittarius will come up with unique

Gemini (21.05 - 20.06)

Cancer (21.06 - 22.07)

Aquarius (20.01 - 19.02)

Leo (23.07 - 22.08)

Gemini is represented by the symbol of the twins.

*Yawn* Literally the dullest star sign. - insert

You should probably do the washing up more

Two parts of a whole, one being split in two. Use

something vaguely meaningful, universally aplica-

often, rather than leaving your busy housemate

this as an excuse for your appalling mood swings.

ble and pretentious -

to do it.

Virgo (23.08 - 22.09)

Libra (23.09 - 22.10)

Scorpio (23.10 - 22.11)

edge you have stored up makes you interesting to

talking to them... Actually, on second thoughts,

talk to. It actually makes you insufferable.

don’t. You’ll probably scare them off.

Listen to the voices.

Crossword Gianna Stanely Puzzle Creator Down 1. One of the most famous, friendly ghosts! (6) 2. A witch’s most essential cookware, (8) 4. What was Halloween called before? (3, 7, 3) 6. A unique method of transportion, (5,5) 8. Friday the ... A classic Halloween movie, (10) 9. Banana boat day-o! (11) 14. A small home for the dead, (6)

Across 3. A playground for ghosts, (9) 5. He hates garlic... (7) 7. Only comes out during a full moon, (8) 10. Commonly said by kids on halloween, (5, 2, 5) 11. They appear over your body when you’re scared, (10) 12. Jack used this as a lantern, (7) 13. Doll possessed by a serial killer, (6)

You might think all that useless, quiz-style knowl-

Stop stalking your crush on Instagram, try

LOVEDAY

Millie Loveday is a multi-disciplinary artist and curator from NW London, based in Manchester. When the pandemic hit, Love-

day was at her family home in London finishing her degree in English and Drama at UOM. Back at her family home, she rediscovered a passion she had found on the brink of teenage-hood for drawing nude figures. Since then, she has started LOVEDAY, a venture into expanding her artistic practice to include working on clothes. She now sells prints, originals and hand painted clothes as part of the Trouser Project Collective in Afflecks. Testing the boundaries of her work and focusing on the social makeup of her generation, Loveday is currently developing a a visual universe: a “third space” between reality and fantasy in her paintings. Publicity: @loveday_art and @millie_loveday

Artwork designed by Mariam Hussain: @mariam.hussain.17 on instagram

Issue 3 of the Mancunion