Nubian Message October 19th

THE SENTINEL OF THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY AT N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY

NUBIAN MESSAGE RALEIGH, N.C. n VOL. X, ISSUE 6 n THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM n OCT. 19th, 2011

2,954

National statistics estimate that N.C. State students are in a violent relationship.

“I love you, I promise I will not do it again”.

“He’s not going to change”.

“You deserve better, don’t settle for this.”

“You must stop doing whatever you are doing to make him mad”

20 %

of College Men and Women reported being in physically violent intimate relationship while attending college As many as 1 in 3 college couples will be involved in at least 1 incident of violence during the course of their relationship.

39%-54% of dating violence victims in college remain in physically abusive relationships

Inside this Edition: Domestic Violence Awareness Month Coverage GLBT Center Vandalism

This issue is dedicated to the victims and their families affected by domestic violence

NEWS

PAGE 2 | OCT. 19TH, 2011

What’s Happening on Campus

NUBIAN MESSAGE

WEDNESDAY

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African American Cultural Center Book Club: The Other Wes Moore 12 PM MANRRS General Body Meeting Schaub Hall Room 105 6PM There Are No Innocent Racial Slurs: Hosted by the Xi Zeta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma, Fraternity Inc. 7PM Washington Sankofa Rm (Witherspoon)

Thursday

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SAA-PAMS SPADES TOURNAMENT Washington Sankofa Rm (Witherspoon) 7PM - 10 PM

University Reacts to GLBT Center Vandalism CJ GUION | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

On Monday Night around 9:10 – 9:15 PM, vandalism was found on the GLBT Center entrance and display board. The culprits that committed the crime are unknown since there are no cameras currently located in the interior of Harrelson Hall, which is the temporary home of the GLBT Center until the completion of Talley Student Center.

University police are working tirelessly to figure out who committed this crime. When and if a suspect is detained, they will more than likely be charged with vandalism and destruction of property. If the suspect is a student, they will be disciplined accordingly by the university.

Students, staff, and members of the surrounding community gathered in Harrelson Hall on Tuesday night to begin brainstorming ideas to address the issue and take a united stand against such acts.

Justine Hollingshead, the Director of the GLBT Center stated in the meeting that this is not what NC State is about and stressed that these types of actions will not be tolerated on this campus. She also said that the university and the GLBT center have received numerous emails and calls of support from neighboring universities and the surrounding community.

In the coming days, the university will be releasing an official statement regarding the incident. Currently, Chancellor Woodson is in Beijing but has been keeping a clear line of contact with other university officials regarding the incident. The university will also be taking measures to enhance security in Harrelson Hall in the coming weeks.

On Thursday afternoon, there will be a rally on the brickyard celebrate the GLBT center and offer support to those who have been affected by this unfortunate incident. All students are encouraged to attend the event.

NUBIAN MESSAGE STAFF/INTEREST MEETING TODAY 5PM WITHERSPOON 356 TODAY - NSBE GENERAL BODY MEETING 7:30 PM PARK SHOPS 201

FRIDAY

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Photos by CJ Guion This picture details vandalism found on the entrance and display board of the GLBT Center around 9:20 PM on Monday night.

CHASS-MAS RAFFLE ENDS Tickets are $1 Prizes: $25 Gift Cards to various businesses

Nubian Message

TUESDAY

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The Association of African American Student Educators (AAASE) General Body Meeting 6PM Poe Hall 512

Wednesday

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Collegiate 100 Annual Freshman Roundtable 6:30 PM (Washington Sankofa Rm/Witherspoon Student Center) Dialogue on Diversity 3PM-5PM / (Washington Sankofa Rm Witherspoon Student Center) INTERESTED IN JOINING THE NUBIAN MESSAGE? SEND US A MESSAGE AT EDITOR@NUBIAN.NCSU.EDU

Sentinel of the African-American Community at North Carolina State University since 1992

CJ GUION | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF JASMINE HARRIS | MANAGIING EDITOR SHANIQUA TAYLOR | LAYOUT EDITOR

STAFF WRITERS: MADAVIA JOHNSON HIND MALIK ASHLEY GAIE

KIERRA LEGGET YOLANDA RAY ALEXIS TEASDELL

TEVIN BYRD

CHELSEA GARDNER

KELVIN CARTER

PHOTOGRAPHERS:

KAREEM WILLAMS

MELVIN MOORE

Only with the permission of our elders do we proudly produce each edition of the Nubian Message.

Dr. Yosef ben-Yochannan: Dr. John Henrik Clark: Dr. Leonard Jeffries: The Black Panther Party: Mumia A. Jamal: Geronimo Pratt: Tony Williamson: Dr. Lawrence Clark: Dr. Augustus McIver Witherspoon: Dr. Wandra P. Hill: Mr. Kyran Anderson: Dr. Lathan Turner: Dr. M. Iyailu Moses: Dokta Toni Thorpe and all those who accompany us as we are STILL on the journey to true consciousness.

COPYRIGHT 2011 BY NORTH CAROLINA STATE STUDENT MEDIA, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Locations Avent Ferry Complex Brooks Hall Caldwell Hall Harrelson Hall DH HILL LIBRARY Witherspoon Student Center Wolf Village Apartments

325/326 Witherspoon Student Center Box 7138 NC State University Raleigh, NC 27695-371 PHONE NUMBER: 919.515.1468 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: ncsu.nubian@gmail.com TWITTER: @NUBIANMESSAGE Facebook.com/NubianMessage

NEWS

NUBIAN MESSAGE

OCT. 19TH, 2011 | PAGE 3

Domestic Violence Awareness Month ALEXIS TEASDELL | STAFF WRITER On October 12, 2011, students and faculty gathered in Talley Student Center at noon to discuss domestic violence. Students from The Movement “a trained group of male and female NCSU student activists and peer education leaders available to facilitate workshops on the prevention of sexual and relationship violence” came and spoke about how domestic violence has affected them and what resources are available to students and faculty. The movement stresses that all forms of interpersonal violence are unacceptable and by programs such as the “These Hands Don’t Hurt Pledge” and the new poster series to display signs of domestic abuse and resources, The Movement is doing an outstanding job of making that goal a success. Domestic abuse is a serious topic and affects us all.

In the words of Jenny Lomelino, a graduate student in Secondary English, “ Everyone is affected by this [Domestic Violence]. Everyone knows someone who is abused, whether you know it or not.”

One of the many programs hosted by The Movement is the “These Hands Don’t Hurt Campaign.” The campaign is set up by the free expression tunnel and people who pass by are asked to sign a pledge of non-violence and then paint a hand symbol on a canvas. The tunnel also utilized by peer educators who paint the tunnel with domestic violence statistics and campus resources. The Movement also holds workshops over the month related to campus dating violence and healthy relationships.

These workshops are interactive as well as informative and are presented to campus leaders such as Orien-

Photo by Melvin Moore As apart of Domestic Violence Awareness Month,, Multicultural Student Affairs, NCSU Athletics, Lambda Theta Alpha, and the Movement hosted an informational speech by Victor Rivas Rivers, a former member of the Miami Dophins who is a survivor of domestic abuse.

DOMESTIC CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Black and Blu’: Don’t Let It Happen To You ASHLEY GAIE | STAFF WRITER

Every 9 seconds, a woman in the U.S. is beaten or abused. One in four women and one in thirteen men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

As our economy continues to face hard times, these numbers are increasing.

On October 3, 2011 President Obama declared October 2011 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, on October 13, 2011 at 7:20 p.m. the Mu Xi chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. hosted a program entitled: Black and Blu, Don’t Let it Happen to You: A Self DefenZe PreZentation.

The program began with a video from the Avon Foundation which included statistics, facts and various statements from Domestic Violence survivors. One woman recalled having an argument with a significant other who broke into her home on a Saturday morning and she was tied, gagged and raped at knife point in her own bedroom.

Merriam-Webster defines Domestic Violence as “the inflicting of physical injury by one family or household member on another.” Domesticviolence.org states “Domestic violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Partners may be married or not married; heterosexual, gay, or lesbian; living together, separated or

dating.” Participants of the program also voiced their own definitions of domestic violence and domestic abuse.

Although there are many definitions, it is consistent that domestic abuse and violence, establishes the control and power of one individual over another.

Domestic violence does not discriminate; anyone is targeted and can become a victim.

Jennifer Price, a member of the Mu Xi chapter feels this program was important because it’s Domestic violence awareness month and also feels it is common with this age group. She hopes that after the program participants understand that “anyone can be a victim of domestic violence and it’s a cycle that needs to be stopped.”

The chapter invited Christopher Ousley, a Physical Education teacher here at North Carolina State University to give their participants a few self defense tips. Ousley has been practicing Karate and Tai Kwan Do since the age of 10. He is currently the instructor of P.E. 239: Self Defense. Ousley gave participants tips on how to distract an attacker and allowed them to practice with a partner. Although the participants had fun play-fighting with their friends, Ousley made it clear that these moves are not guaranteed to save your life and stressed to be smart and get help if you can.

Photo by Kareem Williams Attendees learn self defense techniques from Christopher Ousley, a professor in Physical Education.

The program provided participants with information on how to recognize someone in an abusive relationship as well as how to address them. Women’shealth. gov list these signs of abuse:

◊ Decides things for you that you should be allowed to decide (like what to wear or eat) ◊ Humiliates you in front of others ◊ Unfairly accuses you of being unfaithful all the time ◊ Prevents or discourages you from seeing friends or family ◊ Blames you for his or her violent outbursts ◊ Some signs of an unhealthy relationship include: ◊ Focusing all your energy on your partner ◊ Dropping friends and family or activities you enjoy ◊ Feeling pressured or controlled a lot ◊ Having more bad times in the relationship than good ◊ Feeling sad or scared when with your partner

PAGE 4 | OCT. 19TH, 2011

LIFESTYLES

NUBIAN MESSAGE

How to Be an Effective Leader “A leader must have someone to lead, and followers must have someone to follow, which one are you?” ~WOK

KELVIN CARTER | STAFF WRITER

There are things each leader should know to be a great leader. Having been in a few meetings around campus lately, I’ve noticed that many new leaders have become more slack and do not have their meetings under control. Just as our current generation has lost the old ways of living, we also are losing the right ways of having an effective meeting. In my communication’s class we have discussed how to be an effective leader. Here is a bit of insight on things that one can do to keep members interested along with what not to do to keep things organized and running smoothly.

Below you will find a list of the top 10 things to do as an effective leader and things to probably reconsider.

1. Have an agenda, and follow it. Best ways to have your members stay on task and follow along.

2. Not only should you be prepared to run the meeting, but the second in command need to also know what to talk about just in case the president needs to step out.

3. Stay focused; don’t have the conversation carry to personal conversation among the group.

4. If you can, follow the Robert’s Rules of Order, but not applicable for every organization.

5. Know who has the floor. If your members are talking let them have the floor at the time.

6. Keep things flowing; don’t have people talking out of turn.

7. Be respectful of your member’s time, and try not to waste it by doing things that are not important at the time.

8. Don’t expect so much from your members. Remember that their personal lives will come before anything.

9. You must be the most bias person in the meeting, and opened to all suggestions and ideas.

10. Most important, you are the leader! You set the example for your organization. So if you talk during the meeting then they will talk. If you move around and leave in and out of the meeting, then your members will do the same.

Set the example for your meeting and it should be followed. Remember that people take pride in great leaders, and they select them for a reason. So if you have been chosen to hold a leadership position, then know that there is a reason why you are in the position and you have expectations to follow. People are not against appointing a new leader if you are not doing your task, so be cautious that you are always being watched. One last thing to mention, not only are you a leader but you are also a member and you must consider that everyone around you is a valuable member to your organization, and if you are able to fulfill your organizations’ needs then you also will make your organization more successful.

Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime. Most often, the abuser is a member of her own family.

The AACC Book Club Reads : The Other Wes Moore The African American Cultural Center Book Club will discuss “The Other Wes Moore” at 12 noon on October 19th in Room 126 of the Center. This book details the lives and upbringing of two African American males living in the same city who ended up going down two different paths. One ended up a Rhodes scholar and the other is currently serving a life sentence in prison for a felony murder.

Wes Moore discovered the other West Moore when an article was published about his Rhodes Scholar achievement in the Baltimore Sun. In an ironic twist, around the same time his story was published another story ran about a murder that involved four men. One of the men who was two years older just happened to be named Wes Moore.

Moore received a call from his mother who told him that there was a Wes Moore in the same area who was wanted for murder.

Wes Moore wrote a letter to the “Other Wes Moore”, and received a response letter a month later.

Wes Moore has visited the other Wes Moore many times in prison and has kept in close contact.

The book details the paths that the two men took to get in the positions that they are in today. The story is all about taking responsibility for one’s actions and how one’s environment and family structure can influence the decisions that they make.

The book is available at the NCSU bookstore.

PERSPECTIVES Responses to GLBT Center Vandalism

NUBIAN MESSAGE

Dear NCSU community, Don't embrace the hate.

Last Monday night, October 17, 2011, the exterior of the GLBT center on our campus was vandalized. "Fags burn, and DIE" symbolized hate, as they were the spray painted words used to vandalized a center, hurt members of a community, and embarrass our university.

Action must be taken. It is not fair to members of our GLBT community. We are all neighbors with commonalities and differences. We must embrace the differences, but not the hate.

People are entitled to their views and opinions, therefore, any action taken must not seek to change the views and opinions of others; but to influence the behaviors of those that act out of hate and intolerance.

Martin Luther King, Jr.said it best, "the greatest tragedy of this age will not be the vitriolic words and deeds of the children of darkness, but the appalling silence of the children of light." Let us be the children of light. Let us have the courage that the vandals lack. Let us not be silent.

It is not acceptable to deface the campus community with hate, nor is it acceptable to tolerate that hate.

Don't tolerate the hate.

Wake up! It's serious.

Mario Terry African American Student Advisory Council

It is very saddening that every year that I have been at NC State a hate crime has occurred. Whether the message has been directed towards a group such as the GLBT community or a particular race, we can all agree that it makes the institution as a whole look bad. I believe in life we have to pick and choose our fights but these occurrences are happening too frequently for there not to be a solution or response to combat this issue. After each of these occurrences, there have been several discussions and meetings to develop the response of the University. My hope is that this time, we will make it known that even though NC State is known for being conservative, we will not allow acts that put down other individuals because of their race, ethnicity, beliefs, sexuality, or personal convictions. In the past, our Free Expression Tunnel has allowed people to express their opinions whether they are hurtful, offensive, or degrading. However, this time, a hate crime was plastered on an annoucement board outside of the GLBT Center , vandalizing NC State’s property.

Even though I am sure we are all saddened, frustrated, and angry about yet another hate crime, I think it is still important for us to remain true to ourselves and our morals. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” We should stand up for what we believe in but do so with dignity and respect.

- Shaniqua Taylor Layout Editor

Letter From The Editor

CJ GUION

As many of you are aware, on Monday night around 9:10 pm, unknown suspects wrote hateful messages targeted at the community vandalized the GLBT Center.

It is really sad that this is something that has happened every year that I have been a student enrolled at this university stemming back to 2008 when hateful messages were written in the Free Expression Tunnel targeted towards President Obama and the African American community. While I hate that something like this happened, I am glad that it finally happened outside of the Free Expression Tunnel, which finally forces the university to take action against this when they find out who committed this heinous crime.

Personally, neither incident should be tolerated. If we were out in the “real world” both would be considered vandalism. One thing that we can agree on is that this is not an act of free expression.

While this crime does not show a true reflection of the majority of the students on this campus, I firmly believe that intolerance and prejudice on this campus is a bigger issue than we choose to believe. We need to finally be honest with ourselves and admit that there are a good number of people on this campus who are intolerant of people who belong to certain groups.

Even if you don’t support the GLBT community, you must realize that at the end of the day they are still people. They hurt the same as anyone else, and they deserve respect just like anyone else.

We all pay tuition to this university, and we all should be guaranteed a good education in a safe and welcoming environment. This is a serious matter, which we cannot and will not continue to brush under the rug. This has to be a conversation that does not simply end with a big event that states how diverse this campus is. We’ve done that many times, and the same thing happens over and over.

The university needs to make an example out of the person whenever they find out who committed this crime. It is a poor reflection on this university and a poor example of the progress that we have made in this country towards equality for all people.

I believe that the African American community should stand with the GLBT community, being that we’ve been down this road many times in the past few years.

We cannot solely just support actions that are targeted towards our group. The GLBT center has supported the African American community in the past, and it’s our turn to support them. We have to be a united force to tackle this issue, and make sure that the university does not support actions such as this.

Published by the Student Media Authority of NC State University

The Nubian Message is written by and for the students of North Carolina State University, primarily for the African-American community. All unsigned editorials are the expressed opinion of the editorial staff and do not represent the university in any way.

The Nubian is published every Wednesday of each month during the fall and spring semester, except during holidays and exam periods.

The Nubian Message encourages letters to the editor. The Nubian Message will consider fairly all letters to editor, but cannot guarantee the publication of any.

OCT. 19TH, 2011 | PAGE 5 Question of the Week How do you feel about the vandalism of the GLBT Center that occured on Monday Night?

Jimael Dixson Junior, Business and Marketing Education “I was flabbergasted...I had no idea, someone was capable of doing such thing at NC State”

Julian Joyner Sophomore, Electrical Engineering “It shows the amount of ignorance on our campus such as the incidence in the free expression tunnel”

Travis Wray Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering “Grant it I don’t necessarily approve of that lifestyle but its unfair to single someone out such as the Obama incident in the tunnel last year.”

Cameron Isler Sophomore, Communication ““I dont feel like it’s right, I don’t have any homosexual friends but I don’t stand for discrimination for any gender, race, sex, or sexual orientation.”

NUBIAN MESSAGE

PAGE 6 | OCT. 19TH, 2011

DOMESTIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 tation Counselors as well as various programs across campus.

Another effective approach that The Movement is undertaking is the new poster series. The poster series will include posters with information about healthy relationships and signs of abuse. Some have said that these posters that exhibit signs of abuse can be little reminders to what is and isn’t acceptable in a relationship.

This year there will be three programs addressing Domestic Violence in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender, Latina and the African American communities. Just this past week, The Movement partnered with Multicultural Student Affairs, Athletics, Inter-fraternal council, and Lamda Theta Alpha Latina sorority to bring speaker Victor Rivas Rivers, who is a childhood survivor and witness of domestic violence to speak to campus. The Movement will also be launching a new awareness event called the Silent Witness Project honoring victims and survivors of Domestic Violence.

From the many R.S.V.P hotline posters across campus, to the many events targeted to benefit diverse demographics, The Movement is definitely working hard to give adequate support to those survivors of domestic violence as well as those who know those survivors. They are also doing a great job of informing students on how to stay safe on this campus.

Top 10 Ways to End this Violence: • Stop abusing and stalking people!

• Place the responsibility on the perpetrator.

• Stop using violent language that glorifies this abuse such as “wife beater.”

• Create a supportive environment where survivors are supported and NOT blamed.

• Intervene when you see or hear behaviors that are abusive.

• If you know an individual has a history of being abusive, warn other people!

• If you witness relationship abuse at a party, tell the host to remove the offender.

• Challenge images of violence in the media.

• Educate yourself and be a resource.

• Become active! Volunteer, write letters, attend rallies, do something to personally made a difference.

Fall Color of Explosion JASMINE HARRIS | STAFF WRITER

This time of year, many are likely to see pink in countless places, especially around campus. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is a really big deal at this university. According to breastcancer.org, 12% of women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, which is 1 in 8 women.

This Friday evening at 6:00PM on Harris Field, the Student Government Diversity and Community Service Commissions are hosting a diversity benefit show for Breast Cancer Awareness. The Fall Color Explosion: Pack 4 Pink will include several performances for students and faculty to enjoy including dance performances by Sube Ritmo and Fusion, musical performances by the band Juice Box Stereo and Kelsey Walker, a spoken word performance by Dayna Principe and much more!

The event will be hosted by Kornelius Bascombe, a senior majoring in Criminology. The featured speaker for the Fall Color of Explosion will be Ms. Melinda (Mindy) Sopher, lecturer, advisor and prominent member of the NCSU faculty. Ms. Sopher has fought breast cancer throughout her lifetime and is a four time survivor.

Additionally, any donations will be accepted and will go entirely towards the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation. Those that attend will be able to purchase a $5 pink tye-dye t-shirt as well as sign a banner or flag in honor of someone affected by breast cancer for 50 cents.

The following morning, volunteers will be needed to fulfill the tradition of planting flowers throughout campus, in memory of those who have lost their lives due to breast cancer and in honor of those who survived it.

In 2010, there were more than 2.5 million woman that survived breast cancer in the United States. With contributions to breast cancer research and spreading awareness, the cure for this epidemic comes nearer. You can make a difference by attending, making a contribution, or volunteering your time for this campus event.

If you can not attend, you can help by spreading the word and helping locally in your community.

For more information on breast cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, side effects and how you can lower your risks visit breastcancer.org.

AASAC Organization Spotlight: Black Students Board (BSB) The Black Students Board of North Carolina State University serves the African American student body as an umbrella organization within the Union Activities Board. The Board exists to foster a sense of unity among all students of the African Diaspora at North Carolina State University.

“Our mission is to stimulate the intellectual, political, spiritual, cultural, and social growth of ALL NC State students through the development of innovative and enriching programs such as the Annual Pan-Afrikan Festival, Black Expressions, community service, and the Back to School Jam. We seek to educate ourselves and the greater NC State community in hopes that awareness will spark action and ignite change in our communities. This is OUR task and our overwhelming responsibility.”

BSB Chair: Lauryn Collier

NUBIAN MESSAGE

LIFESTYLES

OCT. 19TH, 2011 | PAGE 7

A Different Perspective on Education HIND MALIK | STAFF WRITER

Have you ever wondered why nowadays it takes more time for a person to “find themselves” or their niche in the world. Sometimes, I hear fellow students speaking, shortly around graduation, that it is now the time to venture, experiment, experience, and find themselves and purpose in life. Approaching my own graduation, I am beginning to wonder, is it time for me to find myself? Then, what have I been doing in college all these years? Was I simply observer absorbing information for later use or was college itself a medium through which I am supposed to find myself through long years of exploration, engaging with different subjects, activities, and forming relationships.

When I was first admitted into college, let’s just say a long time ago, I began with an almost feverish excitement. I had an eagerness for information and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge; or was I hungry for wisdom? I was young, spirited, and ready to take on the world. I bought into the mainstream idea that college was key to that world, and so I fastened to my dreams. Armed with my will-power, books, and brand-new computer, I entered the battle for the key to my world.

I was naïve and innocent, fiercely ambitious, and mysteriously wild, like the “uncivilized” jungles of Africa accounted by European colonialists; I attacked every book, conquering every test. I was honored in the dean list every semester. Now I am civilized. I am tamed.

I cannot undermine the role of education because, it’s necessity is unquestionable. However, we live in a reality of global mass production including mass “production of education.” Therefore, questioning and thoroughly analyzing educational information and its source is crucial for thinking individuals who wish to stray the guided herd and remain unique and at least partially unpolluted by others ideologies, society’s expectations, and cookie-cutter education.

Let us explore the following example. One that illustrates the risk of passively learning and the falsity of books, science, religions, and the people behind it along with the educational institutions that promoted it. In recent history, scientists, scholars, governments, and different societies applauded the “scientific” research and supposedly “religious” facts proposing inferiority of the black race. Books were written and lectures were presented and societies nodded and applauded in approval. Would you, as an individual at that time, owning nothing but your original thoughts, have objected or would you have stood there, helplessly in front of their “scientific findings,” agreeing with such propaganda aimed only to justify subjugation of Blacks around the world and exploitation of their sources? Think about it for a moment. This is not a decaying historical truth but a reality that we continue to live while the tools of propaganda have only advanced reaching to the classroom. Unfortunately, we are so occupied with our Grades that we do not pause to question it.

Before questioning education material, I think we should begin by questioning ourselves. For example: How do we construct our reality? And by reality I mean everything that exists and is real to us including our personalities, relationships, dreams, perceived ideas and views on the world, etc. including spiritual matters since religious institutions play a huge part in homogenizing society. Secondly, how much of this reality is borrowed? Be it borrowed from parents, religion, school, family, books, TV, internet, society, leaders, role models, governments, lives of others and off course, educational institutions. And last but not least, how much of it is a product of our own invention? And in that last question an invitation and the recipe for a different approach of education.

I’ll leave you with that thought and remember-- a “Rebel” is not necessarily a militant but a member of society who rejects the codes and conventions of society. He or she is “a person who exhibit great independence in thoughts and actions.” They are, in my opinion, the unique few who most often make up our history books.

“ Prevalence of dating violence ranges from about, 90% for emotional violence, 30% for physical violence, and 20% for sexual violence, and 8% for stalking” Advice Column Dear Nubian, I've been in a relationship with this guy for three months now. I've started to notice that he has a couple of issues with his temper that I'm starting to think might be suspect. When he gets angry, he starts throwing stuff at the wall, hitting anything he's close to, and even sometimes verbally insults me. After a couple of hours, he apologizes, but I'm worried that he may eventually hit me. I like the guy, but I am wondering what I should do. Am I overanalyzing the situation or is this a serious problem? *This question is just a scenario that some people might be going through, and it goes a long with NC State's Domestic Violence Awareness Month" The Domestic Violence Resource Center states that, “One in four women (25%) has experienced domestic violence in her lifetime.” and that, “Women ages 20-24 are at the greatest risk of nonfatal intimate partner violence.” Ultimately, Domestic Violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, gender, or social class. We must all recognize the signs of abuse and abusive relationships.

Domestic violence can occur in different shapes and forms such as dating violence, emotional abuse, and stalking. If you are afraid of your partner, get help now.

This is a severe social problem in our society today that many individuals deny and overlook but is the harsh reality that so many children, women, and men face on a day to day basis. Never leaving their abuser because of fear, hopes, shame, dependence, and especially love.

1 Corinthian chapter 14 verses 4-8 states that, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

If your partner has a bad and unpredictable temper, get help now. If your partner continuously humiliates and puts you down, get help now. If your partner acts extremely jealous and possessive, get help now. If your partner blames you for their abusive behavior, please get help now.

If you or a loved one is experiencing domestic violence please take advantage of your resources on our campus. The university’s Health Center counselors, women’s health and The Movement can lend a helping hand so that the healing process can begin and the cycle of abuse can end.

Sincerely, Nubian Queen

PAGE 8 | OCT. 19TH, 2011 The Nubian Message’s Guide to What’s Goin’ On in Arts & Entertainment

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

NUBIAN MESSAGE

The Black Best Friend CHELSEA GARDNER | STAFF WRITER

BLAZIN 8 OF THE WEEK 1. Chris Brown - Wet The Bed 2. Jay Cole - Workout 3. Lil Wayne ft. Drake - She Will 4. In Paris - Jay Z/Kanye West 5. Beyonce - Party 6. Marvin & Chardonnay- Big Sean feat. Kanye West and Roscoe Dash 7. Mindless Behavior - Mrs. Right 8. Ace Hood ft. Chris Brown Body 2 Body

WKNC’s UNDERGROUND Top 5 of the Week 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

EVIDENCE - Cats And Dogs Rhymesayers KING MEZ For The Awake J-LIVE From Scratch SIMS- Here I Stand T.I.M.E. “Skywalker” [Single]

Listen to Underground Radio on WKNC 88.1 FM...

Sunday 12 - 2AM Sunday 10PM-12AM Monday 8PM - 12AM Tuesday 12-2AM Saturday 10PM-12AM

In Town This Week

The North Carolina State Fair

The NC State fair is the largest event in the state. It lasts 11 days and attracts many people from around the state, as well as out of towners as well. The State Fair features many food, vendors, amusement rides, games, and exhibits. This week is the annual can day hosted by Food Lion in which attendees receive free admission with four canned goods.

On October 11, 2011 NPR interviewed TV critic Eric Deggans on his perspective of casting roles in terms of race on television today. The radio story was reported on the morning edition and it was titled, “How TV Shows Use BBFs To Appear Racially Diverse.” The program discussed the current role of minority characters on 27 new television network shows (CBS, FOX, CW, NBC, and ABC). The program suggested that many minority characters are playing the role of the “Black Best Friend” while Caucasian actors are playing the lead roles.

As we look over several films and TV shows that we have watched over the years, we see that his critique holds a lot of truth. In TV Series such as “Private Practice,” “Clueless,” “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” “My Boys,” “Grimm,” and the “Ghost Whisperer” we see the idea of the “Black Best Friend” being employed. In films we have seen this character used in “The Nanny Diaries,” “The Devil Wears Prada,” “Bring It On Again,” “The Unborn,” “Eat Pray Love,” “Save the Last Dance,” “Monster-in-Law,” “Premonition,” and “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” The idea of many talented African American actors/actresses being cast in that role is not foreign to any of us. We see it quite often in several more films and shows than the ones listed above. Eric Deggan described their role as only having the importance of giving support to the Caucasian lead through “wise advice, delivered with a dash of sass and the occasional finger snap.”

It appears that network television is limiting African American characters to the BBF role but some say any role is an opportunity. But we have to ask ourselves: In the eagerness to be cast and get a job, are African American actors/actresses simply settling and undermining their talents to get a job? Often we see many actors and actresses starting off in this traditional and stereotypical role such as Nia Long, Regina King and Gabrielle Union. It is evident though that few actors and actresses actually find ways to branch out and expand their talents into starring roles.

Several media theories have shown that TV viewers associate media with real-life. As an African-American viewer, are we being told that we only fit into the best friend role? Are we supposed to lend the funny lines and give words of wisdom? Are we playing this role in our everyday lives? Additionally, what message about this character is it sending to other viewers? Does it create a stereotype of African American actresses and actors?

In the 2007 Los Angeles Times article “Buddy System,” Greg Braxton interviewed Aisha Tyler on her role as “Black Best Friend” in “The Ghost Whisperer.” Tyler was quoted as saying, “But I don’t know what the alternative is. I think the more roles there are for African Americans, the better. This trend feels like a consolation prize but at least these roles are available.

A lot of ensembles are not diverse at all, so if it’s a shot, it’s a good thing.”

Deggan feels that the African American actors are only cast so that the TV show can look more racially diverse. He eventually leads to exceptions in the BBF case (“Up All Night”) who have found themselves starring roles and he feels that with a change in casting others will be able to find similar success. He said, “And once these characters are people rather than plot devices, imagine how much better these shows might become.”

“Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women— more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.”

Album Review : The Wonder Years (9th Wonder) WKNC UNDERGROUND 88.1 FM Pat Douthit aka 9th Wonder is arguably one of the best producers in the game. He’s established himself time and time again and has used his clout to even start his own collective, It’s A Wonderful World Music Group. The album, “The Wonder Years” serves as a reminder of his beatmaking prowess and as a showcase for the artists he’s taken under his wing. It is important to note that 9th Wonder is a North Carolina native and on the tracks are many other North Carolinians bringing the heat. Phonte of Little Brother fame is featured on a couple tracks. Duo, Actual Proof, is featured individually on tracks Streets of Music and Pirrhanas. Rapsody, a former NCSU student and Kooley High emcee spits alongside Erykah Badu on the track 20 Feet Tall. Fresh heir, King Mez, flexes his lyrical muscle on the track Hearing The Melody. Producer, Khrysis , known from being one of the beat-makers for North Carolina hip hop collective Justus League is on the introductory track with 9th’s rapping alter ego, 9thmatic. And distinctively voiced rapper Thee Tom Hardy is on track 13, Your Smile.

This album is without a doubt a celebration of North Carolina hip hop, but is also undoubtedly more. It would be dishon-

est to not give credit to the artists who unfortunately do not share the same geo-spatial locality as us; Skyzoo, Fashawn, Kendrick Lamar, Median, Jean Grae, and many others are deserving credit. In the opening track 9th Wonder muses about his legacy. “I Don’t think we decide our own legacy to be honest with you[….]when you leave the game or leave this earth people will decide your legacy for you.” His humility is genuine as he was the same person at the free showing of the accompanying documentary following a Year in 9th’s life.

While there he mentioned a conversation he had with Jay-Z. Aware that he has made it in the industry, Jay told Pat the next step was to promote upcoming artists and it is obvious he took it to heart. Every beat on the album, is dope, every single one. The lyricism however isn’t the strongest and the intermixing of all the artists at times can seem sporadic and lacks a central message.

Also, for anyone who isn’t a huge fan of R&B there are tracks which are seemingly extended using soulful warbling as filler. The hook, “It ain’t cool to make a love song, they lookin’ at me like there’s something wrong,” from track 15 made me cringe and the rest of the song is pretty cheesy for reasons unrelated to it being a love song. My favorite tracks are 2,3,5, and 9. I rate the album 4 out of 5 stars.