Battling tunnel vision Social Justice Week promotes solidarity through interactive exhibit
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NEWS
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
COMMUNITY
HUNTER CRENIAN// VISUALS EDITOR CALLING FOR CONSENT: Inspired by the outpouring of support and the catharsis of the Me Too Movement, Tunnel of Oppression highlighted the prevalence of sexual violence, from the national scale down to day-to-day predatory interactions. The room was just one of the social issues and forms of discrimination addressed in the immersive exhibit. Tunnel of Oppression runs until Wednesday, Jan. 24.
Injustice on full display at tenth ‘Tunnel’ By Zach Grissom Staff Writer
For Ryan Kesselring, a fifthyear senior who is the social justice coordinator for the Butler Center for Service and Leadership, Social Justice Week is about more than just raising awareness – it’s about creating change by spreading knowledge about certain groups and their struggles. To kick off Social Justice Week, the Butler Center hosted its 10th annual “Tunnel of Oppression,” an interactive museum-style exhibit showcasing the oppression faced by various marginalized groups. “The goal is to take these
issues and reach a larger audience,” said Kesselring, a triple major in political science, finance and economics. “We pride ourselves on being a very diverse university, so this is a place where you really get to see … What different student organizations are passionate about, how they portray the issues they are passionate about and really step outside of your comfort zone.” The event dealt with issues such as human trafficking, pollution, racism, poverty, mental health and discrimination faced by the LGBT community. All of the exhibit’s content was chosen by UM students. Guests wore headphones as they were taken through a guided
tour of the exhibit. Each room was covered with newspaper clippings, personal anecdotes from victims of human trafficking and sexual assault and videos about each topic. Guests also had several opportunities to write down and share their own thoughts and personal experiences. Kesselring said the exhibit offers a chance to learn about issues that most UM students haven’t experienced firsthand. He said groups such as SpectrUM offer many events throughout the year for its own members, but Social Justice Week is an opportunity for individuals not affiliated with the organization to learn about the struggles faced by the LGBTQ
community. Freshman Sarah Shanahan, a public health major, described the exhibit as both eye-opening and emotional. She said the exhibit on race was particularly powerful for her because it made her realize the often subtle ways that racism still persists in society. One of the videos shown in the room was about a racist prank pulled at Columbia University in New York in where students pulled all of the name tags from the dorms of Chinese students. “Even things that we don’t think about, especially being white, having a Chinese name and then having to have an American name just for convenience sake,”
Shanahan said. “I never thought of that before, so that really made me at least want to try more in terms of using their real name.” Freshman Kathryn Wells went to the event because her public health professor offered extra credit to anyone in attendance, but the exhibits ultimately impacted her. “I encourage everybody to go,” said Wells, a nursing major. “It’s a really great experience.” A full list of the The Butler Center’s Social Justice Week events can be found on its Facebook page. The Tunnel of Oppression will continue through Wednesday, Jan. 24.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018 NATIONAL
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
NEWS
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ACADEMICS
Miami listed as finalist Internships continue to be for Amazon’s HQ2 crucial in career development By Amanda Herrera News Editor news@themiamihurricane.com @_amandaherrera
The City of Miami is still in the running to hold a new title: home of Amazon’s second headquarters, HQ2. Miami was listed as one of 20 finalists on Thursday to potentially house Amazon’s second headquarters, according to the online giant’s website. Major cities including Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago and New York City were also on the list of finalists. The announcement comes nearly three months after Miami submitted its proposal to bring the company’s hub to South Florida. Miami’s proposal was one of 238 from cities across North America vying for the role. The University of Miami, along with MiamiDade College and Florida International University, worked with the city’s Beacon Council — Miami-Dade County’s official economic development partnership — to submit a proposal to Amazon Oct. 18. Provost and Executive Vice President Jeffrey Duerk was part of the academic commission working alongside other Florida schools that were in charge of producing information to submit in the proposal to attract the company. Duerk said seeing the amount of time and effort put into the bid lead Miami to the second round is “exciting and gratifying” but work still needs to be done. In September Amazon released its preferred criteria, which included “a metropolitan area with more
than one million people,” “a stable and business-friendly environment” and “urban or suburban locations with the potential to attract and retain strong technical talent.” Amazon did not specify what set the 20 finalists apart from other applicants in their release but Duerk said f lushing out the details of what sets Miami apart from its competitors will be the next phase of the process. “We expect to get very involved because at this point we will start to get into the more specific granular kind of questions and need to provide probably more specific answers to ‘why Miami?’,” Duerk said. “We are very excited and committed to putting in the effort thats required to bring it home.” Amazon said it’s expected to invest over $5 billion in construction and create an estimated 50,000 “high-paying” jobs in the HQ2 city. Duerk said Amazon’s “breadth” across different fields will benefit not only South Florida as a whole but University of Miami students and graduates. “That’s the exciting part for me, the multitude of ways in which the University of Miami and Amazon could partner together. The multitude of ways our 11 schools and colleges and Amazon would interact across technologies as well as in humanities, in the arts, in communication, in education. Really, it will be pervasive in terms of impact,” Duerk said. Amazon is expected to make its final decision later this year.
By Sophia Constantino Contributing News Writer
As the season of summer internship application deadlines looms closer, students and faculty agree it’s never too early to start looking. In today’s flattening world, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for students to develop experience-filled, competitive portfolios to succeed in the post-grad career hunt. And while internships look impressive on resumes, students find they are most beneficial as a means of determining the trajectory of their chosen career paths. Freshman Katie Hahn recently submitted her first internship application to the University of Miami’s Office of Undergraduate Research studentprofessor pairing program and is awaiting response. The program matches students with professors who are working on research projects that correlate with the student’s interests, majors and levels of experience. For Hahn, a medical anthropology major , working in a hands-on research field will help her determine which direction to take as she furthers her academic career. “I’m looking to dial in on what I may want to do after college,” she said. “If I want to go into practicing medicine or do more lab work.” For Hahn, a perspective-broadening internship could be the deciding factor between pursuing a Ph.D. or an M.D.
Similarly, sophomore communications student Michelle Marino is looking into local radio and TV opportunities to decide whether or not to pursue broadcast journalism. “This semester I hope to narrow down what I want to do,” she said. “If I end up comfortable on camera, I’ll gear my internship toward television.” Miguelangel Ramirez, assistant director for career events at UM’s Toppel Career Center, said that without specialized internship experience, students lack the hands-on understanding of their chosen fields. “Learning theoretically and practicing are sometimes different things,” he said. It’s important for students to find internships in specific interest areas because potential employers want to see that an applicant has a basic working knowledge of the field and will not have to be taught every step of the way, Ramirez said. Employers want to know that a student is “career ready.” Marino said she recognizes the difficulty and commitment level of internships and wants to make sure she is fully qualified before stepping into an intern position. Junior Nathan Fox took a chance on an internship outside of his specific field and found success. Between his freshman and sophomore years, Fox, a double major in biochemistry and molecular biology and computer science, interned at the Great Smokey
Mountains Institute at Tremont. The nonprofit, located in Blount County, Tennessee, specializes in experiential education through summer camp sessions for students between the ages of 8 and 18. Though the 10 weeks he spent mentoring kids were not directly related to his field, Fox said the experience broadened his perspective and gave him the chance to live independently and responsibly. He said he experienced personal growth, and his new skills helped him be successful as a resident assistant. In addition to experience, internships provide great the networking opportunities. Being seen by respectable professionals with similar goals and interests can contribute to a student’s overall reputation in the workforce and expand a pool of references to draw from when applying for jobs. Ramirez said the time and space to network in one’s field while still in college is an advantage “almost more so than the actual internship,” because it connects students with potential employers and references. Despite the extra effort and intimidating nature of some application processes, students agree the effort is worth the outcome. “It’s going to pay off,” Marino said. Internship and job resources are available on the Toppel Career Center’s portal at hireacane.miami.edu/gainexperience.
CRIME AND SAFETY
‘Ellie’s Law’ cracks down on airboating after UM student death By Isabella Cueto Editor-in-Chief editor@themiamihurricane.com @isabellacueto
It has been eight months since University of Miami graduate Elizabeth Goldenberg died in an airboat accident. She was taking a tour of the Everglades with her parents and sister, Dana, who were in Miami to celebrate Goldenberg’s graduation from the BFA musical theater program.
Now, there is a bill in her honor waiting to become law. The legislation, which would push for tighter regulations on airboating, is known in legal jargon as House Bill 1211 or Senate Bill 1612, but it also has another name: “Ellie’s Law.” The bill would amend existing Florida statutes and require commercial operators carrying passengers on board an airboat to have a photo ID and proof of successful completion of airboat operator training and a boating
safety course. Airboat operators would also need a certificate affirming they completed CPR and first-aid training. These rules would take effect Dec. 31. Florida’s popular airboating industry has been largely unregulated up to this point. There is no minimum age for operating an airboat, and there are no speed limits in the marshes. The drivers rely on basic boating safety and instinct. The bill is awaiting a vote in the Florida House of Representatives.
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THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
CONSTRUCTION
WVUM receives $150,000 for studio renovations By Kayla Haley Senior News Writer
WVUM 90.5 FM, the University of Miami’s student-run radio station, is celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing alternative tunes to the Miami community this year. And the station recently got the perfect birthday present: $150,000 to renovate its studios. The station was approved for a complete overhaul of its two studios, one of which has been out of commission for years. WVUM has operated out of an office and two studios on the first floor of the Whitten University Center since 1999. The remodel will transform the broadcast and production studios from top to bottom. New floor, new paint, new furniture and new equipment. Junior Emmi Vélez, WVUM general manager, said the remodel has been a goal of hers, but previous general managers have been hitting brick walls for years when it came down to funding. This year seemed to be the right time. “The administration notices that we have been working hard for 50 years,” journalism and political science major Vélez said. “Also, we have just tried to be really persistent, and I think that was key.” Vélez said the renovations are necessary because much of equipment is more 40 years old.
“We are in dire need,” she said. “Sometimes the studio fails, and we are off the air and we really try to have WVUM be something very professional.” Steven Priepke, senior associate dean of students and the financial advisor for WVUM, said the renovation is “long overdue.” In 2015, WVUM’s office had a facelift, and the studio renovations are the next step in the process of modernization. Priepke said the production studio has been out of commission for as long as he has been at the university. Restoring the production studio will provide students the opportunity to double the work they are doing now, enabling the pre-recording of shows and interviews while other students are live on-air. Vélez said the project is major for current and future WVUM staff as they continue to teach students live broadcasting skills to use in the professional world. It all started when Vélez partnered with the operational engineers at WVUM and examined the studios top to bottom. After a complete walkthrough, it was determined that nearly all of the equipment needed to be replaced. One of the new features will be a phone system to take calls from listeners. Previously, DJs and hosts could only take texts or calls off-air, but
Kayla Haley // Contributing Photographer REVAMPING RADIO RADIO:: WVUM Station Manager Emmi Vélez sits inside the studio which broadcasts to the Miami-area and attracts an estimated 60,000 listeners.
the new system will enhance audience engagement. “I think that if you take pictures now ... You will not be able to recognize any of the equipment in the studios once it is done,” Priepke said. Priepke said the station has done a great job fundraising for the renovation. But since WVUM doesn’t have $150,000 up front, it is borrowing funds from the university, specifically from Student Affairs. WVUM will then pay the university back with the funds they earn as a non-profit over the next
five years. Junior Emmanuel Gorrin, host of “Get Smart,” a science talk show on WVUM, said the station has been at the core of his college experience. “I am looking forward to the future and how we can grow and the different ways we can reach out to the community in Miami,” said Gorrin, a neuroscience major. Renovations are set to start this month and are estimated to take three months. Both Priepke and Vélez said the goal is to have an official ribbon-
cutting ceremony by the end of the spring 2018 semester, but it is contingent on the contractors and vendors. During the remodel, WVUM will remain operational and on-air 24/7 for its estimated 60,000 listeners by renovating one studio at a time. “I am excited to make this my legacy as general manager,” Vélez said. “I love this station so much and to be able to be the manager who made this renovation happen and to do it with an executive board that is so passionate about what they do is a dream.”
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
‘Have your voice heard’: SG elections around the corner By Amanda Herrera News Editor news@themiamihurricane.com @_amandaherrera
In a few weeks, students will elect new members to the executive and legislative branches of Student Government. Junior Luis Goberna, elections commission chairman, sat down with The Miami Hurricane to break down the candidate registration and elections process. TMH: Why are elections at UM important?
Luis Goberna: This is your opportunity to have your voice heard. If you want to get something done, there’s a very good chance that there are five to 10 students in Student Government who are willing to help you. They already have connections to administrators. You want to make sure that their goals and interests align with yours, and you can reflect that through elections. TMH: If someone wants to run for a seat, what steps must they take? LG: Filing for a candidate seat opened on Tuesday, Jan. 16. It will run until 5 p.m. Jan. 30. If you want
to run for student government,you can file to run at sg.miami.edu/vote. The filing process requires a headshot and a platform description that will be on the ballot for students. You want to make sure you take your time on that and think it through. The sooner you start on that the better. TMH: Can anyone run? LG: Yes, any student who has met GPA and constituency requirements can run. In senate, these are a little bit more specific. For example, if you are running for the arts and sciences seat, you must be an arts and sciences student. However, we do
have three commuter seats, and most undergraduate students are commuters, so they can apply for that seat. Most students would be eligible for senate, and nearly every student is eligible for president, vice president and treasurer. TMH: Do you have to run as a ticket? LG: If you would like to, you certainly can, but you can run individually for president, vice president and treasurer. TMH: For students who don’t know or who are new, why is it important that students know Student Government exists?
LG: Some of the most iconic scenery and infrastructure is a result of student government. The Shalala Student Center was a Student Government initiative. The new overpass was initiated by student government senate. It’s incredibly important that students understand what Student Government does because they realize all of these great initiatives that they’ve done and are currently undertaking. Elections will be Feb. 12-14. Results will be announced 5:30 p.m. Feb. 15. Questions? Email Goberna at sgelections@miami.edu.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
CURIOUS CATS. SPORTS GENIUSES. TECH GEEKS. GRAMMAR FREAKS. ZINE QUEENS. PHOTO FIENDS. VIDEO ADDICTS. SOCIAL MEDIA FANATICS.b We think you should get paid to do what you love. Apply.bb
NEWS
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OPINION
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
Opinion
The Miami
HURRICANE Founded 1929 An Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame Newspaper NEWSROOM: 305-284-4401 editor@themiamihurricane.com BUSINESS OFFICE: 305-284-4401 FAX: 305-284-4404 For advertising rates call 305-284-4401 or fax 305-284-4404.
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EDITORIAL
Taking control of tech in 2018 From New Year’s fireworks to the opening crawl of “Star Wars,” why do we so often experience life from behind a 3-by-6 screen? As helpful as technology can be in bringing us together, it can also thwart our efforts to actually be present together. The disconnect happens when you miss out on dinner conversation to scroll through Twitter before the bread comes, or half-listen as your friend tells a story, looking down at your lap every time you hear that familiar ding. Technology is not the actual cause of these hampered interactions but an accomplice. After all, rudeness with a phone in your hand is still plain old rudeness. But the ubiquity of smartphones and other personal devices makes it that much easier to indulge in the instant gratification of a text, snap or tweet. In the classroom, technology can be equally intrusive. There are those lecture classes in which you look around and everyone is either on Facebook or online shopping. Even when students use computers to take notes, there seems to be more focus on documenting than participating. And though many students use laptops to better their grades, their devices might be doing just the opposite. In 2016, researchers from Westminster College and the U.S. Military Academy found a causal relationship between laptop-required and laptopoptional classes with lower GPAs and, conversely, laptop-prohibited classes with higher ones. Despite evidence of its pitfalls, a tech-happy habit is hard to quit. We’re conditioned to
expect the instant gratification of a notification and to reply as soon as we see it. So how do you break that habit? In classes requiring laptops, turn off desktop notifications and your computer’s messaging tools. You can even set up separate desktop spaces for school and downtime – and if you’re ever working on tasks that do not require the internet, such as writing or photo editing, switch on airplane mode to avoid the temptation to browse. There are also programs you can install to help monitor how often you browse certain sites and to remind you to get back to work. When it comes to note taking, even less-than-perfect handwritten notes might serve you better than neat digital ones. A 2014 study from Princeton and UCLA revealed that students who write out their notes by hand gain a more thorough conceptual understanding of the material, even if they don’t get every word down. In your personal life, it’s all too easy to pick up your phone – as if by muscle memory – when the conversation dies down for a minute. Fight the urge. You’ll be able to enjoy things you might otherwise miss, like the ambiance of music and clinking glasses or your dad’s goofy table jokes. Over time, the normal parts of human interaction which we’ve grown uncomfortable with, such as extended periods of silence, will become normal again. When you see something special and you want to document it, take a photo to share with friends later, then put your phone away. You will feel more immersed in the action at hand, and besides,
how often do you really re-watch your videos of fireworks or grainy concert shots? When you need a break or some serious study time, embrace your phone’s do-notdisturb function. Nix the idea that you owe others your availability, and disable those read receipts, prioritizing messages as they come in and eliminating a sense of unfounded urgency for every single tweet, text and email. Explain to others that your lack of a quick response is not an indicator of your safety (or lack thereof), nor is it a rebuff – just a much-needed timeout. When it comes to focusing, use the Pomodoro technique: set a 25-minute timer and work straight through without distractions, then take a break. Your phone can sometimes feel like a third hand – but it doesn’t have to. Whether you’re taking a nap or walking to class, leave your phone behind sometimes and enjoy the simple pleasure of rediscovering your surroundings. When using technology, do so with awareness. Gather around friends to watch your favorite shows live, instead of leaving programs on your DVR like chores to check off your to-do list. And when you are all together to catch the newest episode of “The Walking Dead,” keep the phone or laptop away for that hour. Forcing your eyes to dart between two screens will diminish the overall experience. Also try keeping a log of your tech use for a week or so. Those brief five-minute breaks you take to check Twitter or Instagram can really add up – and seeing them
on paper can encourage lasting change. Start small. If one of your goals is to read more, try putting your phone to bed an hour or 30 minutes before you hit the hay and pick up a book instead. Trust us, you’re not missing much. If you feel like reducing your device usage will take you out of the loop, consider switching to time-saving ways of staying up to date, such as signing up for information-packed newsletters delivered straight to your inbox (we have one, and you can sign up for it on themiamihurricane.com). Turn on breaking news alerts or set a couple times each day to check and answer emails. The important part is setting a sustainable pace for your intake and output of information and communication – and then sticking to it. Above all, pair your new tech outlook with an equally fresh approach to communication. When you want to catch up with loved ones far away, give them a call. Not only will it brighten their day, but it offers a chance to enjoy long, meaningful conversations with pauses, rants, belly laughs and “remember when” moments that texting alone just can’t deliver. We can’t be stuck in the technology boom forever, gazing in amazement and listening to whatever Steve Jobs’ empire demands of us. We get to set the rules and use technology in a way that is smarter and adds value to our lives. Editorials represent the majority view of The Miami Hurricane editorial board.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
OPINION
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PERSONAL REFLECTION
Finding inspiration while stuck in traffic Hor ns. Gridlock. Text i n g d r ive r s who jerk and s we r ve w it h reckless abandon. Miami has its romantic hideaways … By Grace But the PalmetWehniainen Opinion Editor to Expressway is not one. But somehow, when heading south toward UM, you spot it: the work of a lovelorn artist, or maybe just someone who wants to make the dreaded drive a little brighter.
Either way, this artist’s preferred medium – red plast ic c ups arranged to spell out motivational, sometimes sappy messages in the overpass fence links – is an overlooked treasure. Whether it’s one person or a string of copycats, the MO seems to be the same: take red solo cups, spell out something clever and leave without a trace. Sometimes, the messages are general. Others read more like love letters. In November, a sweet “Eres la mujer de mi vida Oraimys” (replete with a backwards “j”) grabbed attention with its atypical black, white and yellow. Valentine’s Day should no
doubt deliver a few love notes, too. In a city known for its swanky club and culture scene, it figures one of the most authentically expressive pieces was likely done in the middle of the night, with materials totaling no more than a cool $10.99 at Walmart. And then there’s the sweet sense of determination. While relatively simple, these displays must be at least somewhat planned out, with the artist caref ully working to lay out backwards letters to face the drivers below. In any case, it doesn’t seem like the product of a drunken jaunt around town.
More than that, though, the Palmetto art embodies serendipity – the surprises you stand to lose when you walk (or drive) through life with your head down. When you’re stuck on the Palmetto at 8 a.m. and don’t seem to be going anywhere fast, you know how that story ends. Muttering, complaining or eye-rolling won’t help, so why not enjoy the ride anyway? There’s at least one artist out there who seems to hope that you will. Apply a heads-up mentality to life outside of gridlock – not just to avoid bumping into skateboarders on your way to English but to
f ully experience what’s going on around you. It looks like the same old, same old, but one day that might change, and you could miss it. Enjoy the ebbs and f lows between the more dramatic, snapable moments and you might see something that perks up your day and shifts the way you view things … If only for a bit. So look up. Savor your surroundings, no matter how mundane. But please, don’t drive too slowly. Grace Wehniainen is a junior majoring in motion pictures.
LOCAL
$400M Miami Forever Bond a smart investment in future Hurricane Irma took a turn west and just barely grazed our coast in September 2017, but the M ia m i a rea By Summer Singh still faced Contributing d a m a ge a nd Columnist delays, w it h Universit y of Miami students experiencing a weeks-long hiatus before returning to campus. Outgoing mayor of Miami Tomás Regalado knew Irma was
a bad hurricane, but it would not be the worst to come. He decided to do something about it, and his solution, the $400-million Miami Forever Bond, is a welcome step in the right direction. For an almost-sea-level city where even ever yday stor ms and king tides can cause street f looding, Regalado’s bond, voted into law November 2017, offers a necessary response to related problems. According to the Miami Forever breakdown at miamidade. gov, the bond allots $192 million for f lood prevention and sea level rise relief, $100 million for affordable housing, $23 million
for road improvements – including raising roads to prevent f looding – $78 million for parks and cultural activities and $7 million for public safety. While $192 million is a lot of money, its uses will become more clear as the city updates its Stor mwater Master Plan, which addresses issues such as f loodi ng and stor mwater management. Projects funded by the $192 million could include raising roads, building seawalls and installing stormwater pump systems to help keep the city safe and ease stormwater drainage. Yes, this means there might be
more construction crews on U.S. 1, detours around Brickell and a slew of traffic cones on the freeways. But we’re looking at the long-term goals here; I, along with more than half of Miami’s citizens who voted for the bond, would prefer to see Miami still standing in 20 years. Even though citizens are paying back the bond through taxes, the amount they pay will not actually increase; instead, it will come from the same 3 percent on locals’ tax bills that has been going toward repaying a past bond. Of course, this is a large sum for the city to undertake, which means allocating f unds both
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responsibly and efficiently is of the utmost importance. For many students, Miami is a temporary home until the culmination of an undergraduate ca reer. However, wh i le t he proposed projects are predicted to take approximately 15 years with no immediate payoff, it doesn’t hurt to embrace changes that will make it possible to visit South Florida in the future. Doing so will allow the city to f lourish without fear, far into the future. Summer Singh is a junior majoring in public health.
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OPINION
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
Illustration by Sarah Carraher
HERE’S THAT RAINY DAY
Bring back the value of the individual in politics I learned a new word recently: dehisce, meaning to split along a natural line or weakness. The term usually refers By Mackenzie to the way Karbon seedpods are Staff Columnist discharged from plants at the time of maturity, allowing their genes to be disseminated in the environment and eventually grow anew. Interesting, I thought, how this process of separation is innately regenerative. After all, “splitting” usually evokes feelings of reduction or defeat: the end of a relationship, the breakdown of a physical object.
We are wired to view splitting of all sorts as unfortunate, a departure from the desired state of unity. Politically speaking, this is a common sentiment; the partisan divide is widening, and we are worse off because of it. Polarization has rendered compromise a thing of the past. Divergence halts progress. But the great political split we are witnessing is not inherently problematic. The problem lies in the product of the split. Congress no longer consists of hundreds of individual actors but t wo ideological blocs, each composed of legislators who are largely unwilling to voice opinions contrary to those of their party. W hen t he Cong ressional Budget Off ice predicted that more than 20 million Americans
would lose their health insurance under an earlier form of the Graham- Cassidy Health Care Bill – a staggering statistic that should have nullified the piece of legislation – only four out of the 52 Republican senators said they would vote against it. What’s worse is that 20 Republican senators either refused to speak publicly about the bill or offered a noncommittal statement. W hen t he voice of t he i ndiv idua l is di m i n ished to ser ve the will of the many, opportunities for constr uctive debate and negotiation are stif led, and superior ideas never reach fr uition. It is not ideological disagreement but impenetrable unity exhibited by both Democrats and Republicans that truly divides us.
In Federalist Paper No. 10, James Madison famously deliberates the topic of faction, s t a t i n g t h a t a r e p u b l i c ’s representatives must be “raised to a certain number, in order to guard against the cabals of a few; and that, however large it may be, they must be limited to a certain number, in order to guard against the confusion of a multitude.” This statement is predicated on the assumption that every representative is a relational actor, capable of harboring unique perspectives as well as the ability to work with others. This has not been the case. We have reduced ourselves to two warring cabals, equally disinclined to split apart and explore new avenues of growth. The result is the current state
of American politics: a culture deadened by inf lexibility and constant conf lict. And its reach extends beyond Washing ton. One’s political leanings can i n sta nt ly destabi l i ze a preexisting relationship. The words “conser vat ive” and “liberal” are weighed down by so many connotations that they negate selfefficacy. Let us resist attachment to the comfortable and familiar. Let us find solace in reconstructing relationships. Let us dehisce and grow again, with stability and respect at the roots. Mackenzie Karbon is a junior majoring in jazz performance. Here’s That Rainy Day runs the fourth Tuesday of each month.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018 WELLNESS
Redefining self-care to see real, lasting results R ig ht a longside avocado toast, Kombucha and heavy-handed photo f iltering, selfcare is a quintessential hallmark of our generation. But what does it actuBy Dana Munro ally mean? Though Staff Columnist m i l len n ia ls have appropriated it to entail things such as meditation, journaling and early-morning lemon water consumption, I think we’ve begun deviating from the true meaning of the term. The importance of self-care lies in doing what you, as an individual, deem best for yourself. Not society, not your parents, not your friends – you. This variation of caring for oneself is harder to grasp – and implement – than the more fad-centric variation. And this is precisely why it’s important to reconcile it with our everyday decisionmaking. Dan Mager of “Psychology Today” outlined the three types of stressors as exter nal-impersonal (environmental or big-pic t u re st ressors), exter na li n t e r p e r s o n a l (r e l a t i o n s h i p - b a s e d stressors) and internal (self-inf licted stressors). Sorority recruitment is a perfect example of all three. Perhaps your dad wants you to focus more on your studies – your pre-med track requires diligence, and those MCATS aren’t going to ace themselves. But your mom was a Tri Delt back in her college days and is depending on you to uphold the family legacy. Meanwhile, your f loor-mates have been making daily Target runs, purchasing clothes suitably stylish and outrageous, praying for a bid from DG ... And you long to embark on the sorority adventure with them. Your practical father is the voice of your external-impersonal stressors. You aspire to be a world-renowned neurosurgeon, doing admirable work
saving lives. But you also want to make your mother proud, and now’s your chance to patch up this turbulent period in your relationship, an externalpersonal stressor. But you also want to feel a sense of identity and belonging with your group of friends going for DG, a classic internal, self-inf licted stressor. So what’s the answer? How can you possibly implement self-care while being pulled in a hundred different directions? The answer: lemon water. Just kidding. The answers actually lie in f ur ther questioning: what do you believe is best for you? What will pr ior it i ze you r wel l-bei ng? W hat is the decision most considerate of your happiness? This may take some introspection, a necessity for personal growth. The reach of self-care stretches beyond eating healthy and going to the gym. Yes, those are significant factors in our happiness, essential to quelling anxiety, sustaining energy and ensuring longevity. However, the pivotal choices that develop our identities – what organizations we join or what college we go to, things that limit our path and form our trajectory – are even more inherently st ressf ul. As such, those decisions require more thought, delicacy, and care. Eventually, you will get into the habit of making more careful decisions that lead you closer to your purpose, and those life-shaping choices will propel you forward on your journey. That’s true self-care. This is a critical part of a college education. Sure, it might not show in your GPA or get you into law school (though it might), but making autonomous choices of your own accord, for your own well-being, is paramount to maturing into the adult you are meant to become. Dana Munro is a sophomore majoring in musical theater.
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
OPINION
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EDGE
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
UM grad discusses his film ‘Zindagi’ By Isabella Cueto Editor-in-Chief editor@themiamihurricane.com @isabellacueto
Vasisth Sukul is a University of Miami graduate of Surinamese descent born and raised in Miami. He graduated from UM in May 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in motion pictures. For his senior project, Sukul made “Zindagi,” a short film about a widower who is considering ending his life when a strange woman–who is actually a goddess in human form– visits him and gives him new hope. The Miami Hurricane spoke with Sukul about “Zindagi” ahead of its premier and to reflect on his growth as a filmmaker.
TMH: What inspired the film? VS: A girl broke my heart. That
was all the inspiration I needed.
TMH: Did you pull from your own heritage and cultural background for this film? VS: Some of my Hinduism goes into the context of the film, as I view the character of Zindagi to be a reincarnation of Brahma (God). God, in our religion, is believed to be reincarnated in many different forms. TMH: Why was it important for
you to highlight underrepresented cultures and identities in this film? VS: I purposely tried to incorporate minorities into the cast and crew of this film because Hollywood typically puts minorities in minor roles. I wanted to create a film that did the opposite.
TMH: What was the creative process for this film like? VS: I had been thinking about and writing the script for this film throughout the first semester of my senior year. When my final semester rolled along, I made it my final project for CIM 451 with Professor Jeffrey Stern. The class helped me hone in on
Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor BEHIND THE SCENES: Vasisth Sukul is a University of Miami graduate with a bachelor’s degree in motion pictures. For his senior project, Sukul made “Zindagi,” a short film about a widower who is considering ending his life when a strange woman–who is actually a goddess in human form–visits him and gives him new hope. “Zindagi” premiers on WPBT on Tuesday.
the story of Zindagi. The project itself extended well beyond the scope of the class. We continued editing the film seven months after the class finished. “Zindagi” was really a culmination of my efforts, in partnership with my producer Jaydev Hemrajani, who also plays the lead role of Suka. The whole process, from conception to final edit, took 14 months.
TMH: In the film, the widower Suka welcomes Zindagi, an almost sprite-like character, into his home rather quickly. Why does he let her in so easily? VS: Suka has nothing to live for when he meets Zindagi. He subconsciously doesn’t want to end his life and so when he meets her, he honestly just wants to find something to live for in her. TMH: What is the significance of
the white lily in the film? VS: The white lily represents death. Zindagi means “life” in Hindi.
She picks up the white lily and looks at it when they meet in the garden. She leaves it in the noose so that Suka can choose for himself if he wants to choose life or choose death. Because Suka throws away the white lily, he chooses to live just a little bit longer.
TMH: Do you have a favorite moment in the film? VS: The final shot with Suka on the roof. My good friend Jaydev had to act depressed during the whole movie and it was heartwarming to see a smile back on his face. TMH: What do you want audiences to take from this film? VS: The silver lining of lost love is that you learn how much you can love. Although they may be gone, your heart will be forever changed and that is something that should never leave you. TMH: Tell me a little bit about Imaginary Club and its relation to your film work. VS: I visited a center for children
with mental disabilities in Suriname when I was 17 and volunteered there for a couple of weeks. They were playing with the same old puzzles every day with incredibly little resources. When I was 18, I decided to start Imaginary Club as a charity that helps to envision and act to make a better world. We act to make the world a better place by helping children with mental disabilities in Suriname. We envision a better world with our videos that have a positive message. These films are why I am in the business of film. It’s a mass communication tool that, if used effectively, can truly make a difference.
TMH: What has your growth as a filmmaker looked like over the course of your UM years? VS: Honestly, I came to UM barely knowing anything, film-wise. All I had done before UM was make a couple of short videos on YouTube. By the time I left, I had learned how to edit on emotion from Professor Ali Habashi and how to tell a story using the power of sound from Professor
Stern. Now, I started a production company called U&S Productions with Joel Glickman, a fellow UM graduate who was the First Assistant Director on “Zindagi.” We’re shooting mainly commercial videos. I hope to one day produce feature films.
TMH: How did the PBS deal happen? Have any of your other works aired on TV before? VS: Jaydev was on the set of another film, and he filled out the application for WPBT’s Filmmaker Project on the last day. We got selected, they interviewed me, and now we will be airing on TV. This is my first film on TV and hopefully not my last. TMH: Will there be a watch party? VS: I will be watching with my
close friends and family. “Zindagi” will air Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. on WPBT2 and on Monday, Jan. 29 at 5:30 p.m. on WXEL. For more on Imaginary Club, visit imaginaryclub.com.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
SPORTS
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FOOTBALL
Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor MOVING ON: Sophomore cornerback Malek Young wears the Turnover Chain for the second time in 2017 after an interception in a 41-8 Miami victory over Notre Dame on Nov. 11 at Hard Rock Stadium. Young finished with 43 tackles and two interceptions this past season.
Canes cornerback to have career-ending surgery By Isaiah Kim-Martinez Sports Editor sports@themiamihurricane.com @isaiah_km
University of Miami athletics released some devastating news Jan. 21: sophomore cornerback Malek Young will undergo career-ending neck surgery
because of an injury sustained during the Orange Bowl game against Wisconsin Dec. 30. It was reported on CanesInSight.com Jan. 20 that Young’s career looked to be over because of an injury to the vertebrae in his neck. UM confirmed the report the following day. “After discussions with my family and the UM medical
staff, we have determined that my football career should come to an end,” Young said. “I look forward to getting healthy, working towards my degree and continuing to support my teammates, as I know they will continue to support me.” Young, who played in all 13 games for the Hurricanes this past season and recorded 43 tackles and two interceptions,
has received an abundance of support from teammates, coaches and Miami alumni. The Fort Lauderdale native was one of Miami’s best defensive backs in 2017 and received national attention as the first Hurricane to wear the Turnover Chain back in the season-opening 41-13 victory over Bethune-Cookman Sept. 2. The University of Miami
medical team will perform Young’s surgery. “While we’re disappointed that Malek’s football career is over, his health is our top priority,” head coach Mark Richt said. “Malek is a terrific young man, one who I’m confident will go on to accomplish great things. He will remain on full scholarship, and we will support him every step of the way.”
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THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
PROFILE
Miami freshman dedicates every game to late grandmother By Isaiah Kim-Martinez Sports Editor sports@themiamihurricane.com @isaiah_km
Kelsey Marshall isn’t fazed by high pressure situations. As a standout high school basketball player, she helped lead Miami Country Day School to two national championships, four state titles and a No. 1 national ranking during the 2016-2017 season. But on Nov. 10, when it was time for her first official game at the University of Miami, the freshman guard was absent, and it wasn’t because she was nervous. Her grandmother’s funeral was that day. For the Davie, Florida, native, family has always been the top priority. Her parents and two brothers attend nearly every home game to cheer for her. “I love it because I may not know the other people in the stands, but I know that I have four people who will always be there for me whenever I need them,” Marshall said. “And it’s really nice to have them sitting outside waiting for me and, after every game, going out to eat as a family.” UM’s location played a crucial part in Marshall’s decision to become a Hurricane. “When you graduate high school, you are kind of on your own, but her parents still had that motherly and fatherly influence like, ‘This is still our baby,’” UM senior captain Erykah Davenport said. “She’s still really attached to her mom and dad. And since they’re so close, she’s available to go home often.” But the family got some devastating news on Oct. 30, just a day before Miami’s first exhibition game. Marshall was looking through Snapchat when she saw that her cousin had posted the news of her grandmother’s death. “I called my mom, and she was just bawling and crying on the phone,” Marshall said. “And in that
moment, I knew for sure that she had passed away. That’s how I found out.” Her grandmother, Lunie Joseph, had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease since before Marshall was born. But she also suffered from an undetected kidney failure, from which she died. Just a few days prior to her death, Joseph was at home doing “perfectly fine,” being herself and speaking in her native Creole. But a few days later, when Marshall’s mother, Myrline, tried to feed her, she began to vomit, and blood gushed from her nose. After the incident, Marshall spent the last four days Joseph was alive with her in the hospital. She missed basketball practice to be there with her grandma until the day she died. “The days leading up to the passing of her grandma were just as hard as the actual day,” Miami head coach Katie Meier said. “Kelsey would see people that she really cared about and someone she really loved just hurting.” But Marshall played in the Hurricanes’ exhibition game the very next day. She went through her typical routine and she was the first one on the court to warm up – an hour and 45 minutes before tip-off. “She came and she gave to Miami when she didn’t have to,” Davenport said. “She could have really used that as a crutch by saying, ‘I’m not feeling my best so I don’t have to give Miami my best.’ She still wanted to give to Miami regardless of how she was feeling in her personal life, so I really respect that.” Carlyle “Slim” Lewis, one of Marshall’s high school coaches, was right by her side during the difficult process. Unlike many coach-player relationships that fade after high school, Lewis is still Marshall’s basketball trainer. He pushes her to be better, and he regularly offers her advice. “I told her, ‘Use that time on the court to dedicate your games to her,’” Lewis said. “‘That’s the most you can do. Don’t sit there and find
Josh White// Staff Photographer MORE THAN A GAME: Freshman guard Kelsey Marshall goes up for a layup in a matchup against Nova Southeastern. Miami would go on to win 102-47 on Oct. 31, 2017, at the Watsco Center. Marshall would miss the season opener against FIU.
yourself stressing about something you can’t control.’” Marshall, who is averaging 7.5 points and two rebounds per game in her first year at Miami, has done just that. “I always try to be the best person I can be because there is
always someone close to me who is doing their best, so I try not to limit myself,” she said. And for Marshall, the memory that will always stick out in her mind will be Joseph’s moments of pure joy. “She didn’t really speak
English, so the one thing I can always remember is when somebody else was laughing, even though she didn’t understand what you just said, she was going to laugh with you, just to laugh,” Marshall said. “That’s what I remember the most about her.”
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
By Isaiah Kim-Martinez Sports Editor sports@themiamihurricane.com @isaiah_km
MEN’S BASKETBALL The Miami Hurricanes snapped a two-game skid with an 86-81 win over North Carolina State Jan. 21. Sophomore Bruce Brown led the Canes with 19 points and nine assists. Next, UM faces Louisville, a team adjusting after the loss of former head coach Rick Pitino. He
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Miami is on a three-game winning streak, and senior captain Erykah Davenport has recorded a double-double in each matchup. She is averaging 13.7 points and 11.3 rebounds per game during that span. UM looks to continue the trend against Louisville 11 a.m. Jan. 25 at the Watsco Center. Tip-off is early to accommodate Elementary School Day, an event in which kids take a field trip to watch the Canes.
SPORTS
MEN’S TENNIS The Hurricanes suffered a 5-2 loss to No. 14-ranked Mississippi State Jan. 21. Miami captured the doubles point with 6-1, 7-6 victories but then dropped five of six singles matches. UM will begin a five-game homestand 3 p.m. Feb. 2 at Georgia Southern University.
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THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
BASKETBALL
Former Hurricanes see bright future for UM By Josh White Senior Sports Writer @_JoshRWhite
Miami Hurricanes men’s basketball has arguably its most talented roster in program history, featuring multiple McDonald’s AllAmericans, six ESPN Top 100 recruits and two 2018 NBA Draft prospects. However, the young Hurricanes have experienced growing pains in conference play and have fallen out of the AP Top 25. Miami has felt the triumph of beating ranked opponents Minnesota and Florida State but also suffered losses to underdog opponents New Mexico State and Georgia Tech. While this inexperienced roster has dealt with its fair share of bumps and bruises, former Canes think the adjustment period is normal. “Around this time of the year, A-teams have a reality check, whether you have a good record or not,” Long Island Nets forward Kamari Murphy said. “I think this Miami team realizes its potential but has to put it to full use.” At one point, Miami (14-4, 3-3 ACC) was riding a 10-0 undefeated start to the season but has faltered the past few weeks. UM dropped three of its first four games to start 2018 but bounced back with a win over North Carolina State. “In the ACC, there are going to be a lot of ups and downs,” Phoenix Suns guard Davon Reed said. “I think the biggest thing is bouncing back and being consistent with playing your team’s game.” While the Hurricanes have dropped out of the rankings, the struggles might be a blessing in disguise.
“Sometimes time is the best cure for a team not playing up to their potential,” Fort Wayne Mad Ants guard Trey McKinney Jones said. “Basketball is such a mental game, and coach Larrañaga is the best in the business when it comes to supplying his players with quotes, books and mental exercises.” With big matchups still left on the table against Virginia and North Carolina, Miami still has a chance to put together a run similar to the Hurricanes team that won the ACC Championship in 2013 or the 2016 team that finished tied for No. 2 in the conference. Both teams ultimately made it to the Sweet 16. “In order to make a run, you need complete selflessness and a commitment to winning at all costs,” now Telekom Baskets Bonn center Julian Gamble said. “We had a very heavy veteran presence and senior leadership on our championship team. We had a mentality of not caring who shot the ball or got the credit. We only cared about winning.” The Hurricanes are starting to gel as a team and are showing clear flashes of their potential. Sophomore Dewan Huell is averaging career-highs in points and rebounds. Freshmen standouts Lonnie Walker IV and Chris Lykes are getting better with each game. Veteran leaders Bruce Brown Jr. and Anthony Lawrence II have made big plays down the stretch to contribute to victories. “They have what it takes: athleticism, speed and a great staff,” said Gamble, who played at UM 2008-2013. “A difficult period will not define their season, and they will grow through the trials they are facing, which will only make them stronger. I know the staff and team will not settle for anything less than their best and I know that is what they will give.”
Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor GAUGING GREATNESS: Former Canes forward Kamari Murphy (21) goes up for the dunk in a 55-50 victory over Duke Feb. 25,2017, at the Watsco Center.
Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor PAVING THE PATH: Former Miami guard Davon Reed (5) switches pace on two Blue Devil defenders. He finished with nine points and 10 rebounds.
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018
THE MIAMI HURRICANE
V’S TAKE
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New Year’s resolution: Get wifed up Welcome back, y’all. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: a new semester means plenty of new bodies – and hearts, for our sentimental readers – on campus. I’m looking at you, spring admits. Hey, transfers. ‘Sup, girl who left halfway through last semester because of a botched plastic surgery. Usually, I would look at these people as an opportunity for plenty of action, but I’ve Have a question changed. New year, new V. for V? Email The end of 2017 made dearv@themiamihurricane.com. me realize I’m tired of the games that come with being single and seeing
tons of hotties at once. Sleeping around can get a bit lonely after a while. So I’ve made it my New Year’s resolution to settle down and get wifed up. You heard me – your favorite former floozy wants you to know that you can do it, too. We’re nearing the end of cuffing season (which lasts through Valentine’s Day, as I’ve written about before), so take advantage of the opportunity. Find yourself a bae instead of swiping on Tinder all day. Sure, you’re probably super horny after spending all break sitting on your parents’ couch watching “Grey’s Anatomy.” I know season five Mark Sloan is the peak of male perfection and
sexiness and makes you want to do unholy things (if interested in women, substitute Addison or Izzy). Being back in Miami with copious amounts of freedom, hard liquor and free residential college front desk condoms means you are surrounded by temptation, but resisting the urges could and probably will lead to a lot of future happiness. A little sacrifice now could lead to a lot of good things in the future – good things like relationships, cuddling, commitment, cute dates and maybe (emphasis on maybe) even love. So if you have a bae you left over break, pick things up where
you left off. Show him or her you are just as committed in 2018 by planning a fun date, cooking a meal together or sending naughty texts detailing what you were thinking about doing to them over the break. In 2018, we’re being happy, committed and, most of all, we’re communicating. And also drinking lots of water – hydration is key. See? You barely recognize me, right? But we all know resolutions are easy to forget, so let’s see how long V can keep an open heart (and closed legs). Have a question for V? Email dearv@themiamihurricane.com.
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THE MIAMI HURRICANE
January 23, 2018 - January 29, 2018