Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition by NC State Student Media

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

To All My Nubian Brothers and Sisters “What’s Up?” which is

As many people

Tony Williamson Founding Editor-in-Chief

shared by everyone involved with it, is am-

this campus and with the Nubian

dents across the country have

bitious, but not unrealistic. The Nubian

Message, the door is open for us

been speaking out against what

Message should and will be the media

we feel to be unfair conditions

voice for African –Americans at N.C. State.

on our campuses. At N.C. State,

It will be a publication in which people can

one of our main concerns has

learn about different aspects of our culture,

been unfair and unjust media

as well as find useful information about

coverage of the African Ameri-

State’s campus. With the concentrated ef-

can community on this campus.

forts of our people, this vision can become

As hard as we have tried, our

a reality very soon. Finallly, it is important that every one realize that this

heard and our proposed

Originally published

solutions to our media problems have not

newspaper is not a racist

Nov. 30, 1992

been accepted thus far. Rather than sit

publication. We are

By: Tony Williamson

around and wait for some fair coverage by

not seeking supe-

that other paper on campus, the Nubian

riority, nor

am proud to present to you the

Message has been created to represent the

segre-

first issue of the Nubian Message,

African American com-

NCSU’s first African-American

munity at NCSU totally,

newspaper. It’s been a long time coming,

truthfully, and faithfully.

but we’re finally here and yes, we’re here

In doing so, we shall cover

to stay!

every aspect of AfricanAmerican life at NCSU.

have regarding the newspaper, there are

The vision I have

many people, all different racial groups,

for this news-

who either do not understand the purpose

paper,

of the newspaper, or are simply totally against it. Realizing that we can’t please everyone (nor will we ever attempt to), I hope that I can reach some of these people by explaining briefly the reasons for

gation; all we want is an equal voice on

know, African American stu-

cries for justice have not been

Despite the enthusiasm most of us

to have that voice.

n 1992, Tony Williamson set out to create a newspaper that would provide Afrikan-American

students at N.C. State with an outlet to have their voices heard. Twenty years later, I am proud to say that I

have had a stake in helping to keep both that outlet and Tony’s legacy alive. During the six months that I have spent as editor of this publica-

tion, the Nubian Message has managed to secure a special place in my

DEERRICKA GREEN MANAGING EDITOR

RYAN BARNES TORISHIA DOZIER CHELSEA GARDNER TRAVIS GATLING AUSTIN GREEN RACHEL JORDAN CHRISTOPHER LYNN SEHDIA MANSARAY ROBERT MARSHALL DESTINY MCNEIL SHAWN MURRAY DEJA WILLIAMS KALI SCURLOCK

The Nubian Message

heart. Though there are many sleepless nights, stressful days and countless hours spent preparing this paper each week, it remains for me, a labor of love. In 1992, the greatest challenge surrounding Tony, the Nubian Message staff and Afrikan-American students at N.C. State was proving to the rest of the campus that there was a need for the Nubian Message, I think the greatest challenge now, lies in proving not only to the greater campus but also the African-American students at this university that there is still, very much a need for the Nubian Message. When this newspaper was founded, it served as a uniting force for the AfrikanAmerican students on this campus in their fight against inequality. However,

because we are not presented with blatant discrimination and disrespect the way previous Afrikan-American students were, the current Afrikan-American student body of N.C. State has become apathetic toward the Nubian Message

Multicultural Student Affairs would like to wish Nubian Message a very happy 20th Anniversary!

1st Nubian Message issue August 22nd Best wishes on your continued success! Look for the Symposium Edition on stands

and perhaps even worse, the idea of black unity on our campus. Unlike Tony Williamson and black students on N.C. State’s campus during the early 90s, we passively allow things to happen and when incidents do occur, much like the hate speech found in the Free Expression Tunnel in October, we take a reactive stance, most of the time only expressing our discontent on Facebook and Twitter. Afrikan-American students have become so comfortable on this campus that the idea of the Nubian Message

purposes of the

being dissolved into only a weekly section of the Technician doesn’t even cause them to flinch.

sage.

KIERRA LEGGETT EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

STAFF WRITERS By: Kierra Leggett

creating and the Nubian Mes-

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.

To all of those students, I ask, had it not been for Tony Williamson and the founding Nubian Message staff would your

position on this campus be as comfortable?

Kierra Leggett Current Editor-in-Chief

Nubian Message www.thenubianmessage.com

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

“ to student protests alleging racial bias by the

Technician. Tony Williamson served as the new

Williamson stated his intention to "totally, truthfully, and faithfully…cover every aspect of African Nubian Message become "the media voice for African Americans at NC State…a publication

YOU ARE HERE

THE BRICKYARD

about State’s campus."

“

Design by: Rachel Jordan

Red,White & Black App

Red , & Black Tour Map

Obama Got His Second Term, Now Give Me My 40 Acres and a Mule Does President Obama Owe Black America?

African-American Cultural Center opens

1992

elected, I was the first one jokingly saying,

Firs t African -A merican De an Nubian Message starts publication

Stu d e n t Center Annex named for Dr. Augustus Witherspoon Students rally in support of Affi rmative Action

2005

Mallory Richardson | News Writer

Student cha pter of NAAC P re-f o rms

2006

ian newspaper shares similar sentiment

this election were the economy and jobs.

need to seize the moment" and tackle

saying, " Obama should do more for black

35 percent of these voters specified im-

the issue of immigration, he is taking his

people – not because he is black but be-

migration reform as their main concern.

second term with full force.

cause black people are the citizens suffer-

Eliseo Medina, secretary-treasurer of the

ing most. Black people have every right to

Service Employees International Union,

ate enrollment percentages rising to 14

make demands on Obama – not because

said Latino voters had a message for

percent and Latino undergraduate enroll-

CHASS suffers budget cuts "Now, give me my 40 acres and a mule

1995

1998

Back in 2008, when Obama first got

The national economic crisis has now begun to affect our students more di2008 Racis t grafi i directed at Obama rectly now, due to several budget cuts 2010 by Governor Mike Easley. Racia l epithets painted in Freedo mrequested Ex pre rssio n Tunnel Interim Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Jeffery 2012 N ubian Message 20th AnniversaryBraden said, “Bad economic times for the nation and state exempt no one.” In light of the current issues with federal and state debt to the government and Firs t African -American head basketball coach

!" As a sixteen-year-old, non-registered

voter at the time, I did not have the right

With Afrikan-American undergradu-

to beasked peakingto onsubmit reparations. While I nobudget ny. However, Braden is very doubtful shows the large numbers of students was a reversion they’re black but because they gave him a Obama, "We expect leadership on comment rising to 13 percent in 2010, as well that attend N.C. State are humanities rather than cutting fundsgreater in- percentage that thisofrequest will be implemented longer feel thismerely way, it seems somethe Black their votes than any prehensive immigration reform in 2013. as Afrikan-American unemployment falldefinitely which gives them the oppor- by the department. “99.8 percent of the students. The urgency of re-budgeting Panther leaders do. According the New other group, and he owes his presidency To both sides we say, 'No more excuses.'" ing 1.4 percent and .7 percent for Latinos tunity to re-earn the allotted Black Panther Party Chairman, Malik amount state appropriated money is allocated to the college’s funds, students, alumni, to them. Like any president, he should Instead of looking for what Obama from August to September, I think we for further a later"delivered" date. As a result personnel on campus, mostly instruc- faculty and staff were not able to aid in Zulu Shabazz,use the at Panthers be constantly pressured to put the issue can do for us, we should also be asking may owe Obama something. of the newly suggested Obama into office and Obamabudget, "owes" theadmin- tional,” said Braden. “Most institutions an effort to raise money to help support of racial injustice front and center and can we, as Americans do for him? So, you can keep your 40 acres and a will be istration has frozen new hire positions, average between 80 and 90 what percent of the college; hopefully, CHASS Black Panthers "some favors." if black people aren’tfor goingpersonnel,” to apply that says Being first at anything is difficult. Though mule, I’ll take mynext second four years of the more prepared if this happens current recruitment for position openbudgets Braden, Along with those great radical leaders pressurewhich then nobody else will." we sarcastically Bill Clinton our paypresidential school year.was“We money, workhorse. to earn ings, the number of CHASS staff, and is further indication that North say all faculty travel expenses. “We really Carolina’s and NC State’s strategies to money back,” said Braden by focusing have nothing else to cut,” says Dean retain optimal faculty and staff mem- on the investment the university comBraden, when talking about potential bers within the university system. The mits to each student, and their com-

5 2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

black in the Free Expression Tunnel. The comments caused an outcry by students and staff on campus, blurring the lines of what is considered free speech, hate speech, and speech that is criminal. The mes1889 sages pushed the University to clarify the difference Former enslaved African-American begins 50 year career at university between the three without compromising the safety and respect of the student body. All over campus, students expressed their feelings about the incident, 19 53 meeting formally in organized sessions, spontaneFirst Africa n-Ame rican gra duate s tudents admi ed ously in brickyard debates or Atrium discussions 1F9ir5st6A fri can -Am erican undergra duate stu dents adm i ed over lunch. Students found out Thursday that the four students 1957 First A f rican-American graduate responsible for the are messages would first notblack be President, charged Barack Obama is our of the New Black Afrikan-Americans not the only 1958 and their names would not be released. Panther Party is minority group staking their claim in actual first Black President, who faces imFirs t African-American academic staff member “It’s a hate crime, it’s messed up. The First AmendRicky Donnell Ross, Obama's win. There are many Latinos mense pressure on a regular basis. Being 1960 Firs t A frcian -A m e rica n un d e rg radu a te de gree co nferre d ment isn’t exactly what it says; it has limits like everybetter known as who say their votes put Obama over the first, carries the weight of everyone before 1962 thing else” said Charles Woelfel a senior in computer Freeway Rick Ross, a top. More than 70 percent of the Hispanic it. Obama is shouldering the aspirations First-Americcan American faculty member science. former drug lord who population voted Democratic in this elecand dreams of all of our ancestors, who 1966 “It makes you really think said Elana Turner, a First fema l e Af rican -American u ndergrad ua te s d egree recip ie n t feels the same. With tion. With more than 93 and 71 percent fought and died for us. Not only that, he freshman in philosophy. What are the cameras in the 1967 his ears to the street, support of groups that occupy 13 and took on the remnants of the Bush Admintunnel there for, if not for things like this?“ The probFirs t Af rica n -A m erican f oo tb a ll play e r Ross says that Obama 16 percent of Amerikkka respectively, left the economy in the lem needs to be exposed. Whenever aistration, black which [person] 1969 "energized the I'm not so asure Barackits Obama owes viewed us worst the Great Depression of commits crime widely and state thissince is the Ma rch to support Africa n A me rican emp l oyees streets to take part anything. Sure a16hate million Afrikan-Amer1929. Moreand than the 800,000 jobs were lost second time crime has been reported 1970 President Obama at NC Central 2007 | Archive Photo A frican American Cu l tural Center in politics, leading icans anddon’t 12 million voted forsaidduring his presidency. culprits face Hispanics repercussions” Jasmine Brown NC State fails to compl y w ith Civil R ights A ct of 1964 Barack Obama spent half of his time at the Fair Grounds on Tuesday night answering questions from eager voters. gang members, drug a Obama, but 28 million does not equal the During Obama’s first year as President, freshman in political science. Firs t African A merica n M is s NC S U Christopher Lynn dealers, and hip-hop 60 million total votes the American Recovery “Something has he toreceived. be done” said Genesis Atkins, a and Reinvest1973 Kishea Phillips | Editor-in-Chief truly can be whatever you want to be ” he said. Staff Writer First feamle Af rican American Ph.D recipient in accounting what she feltActabout theand stabilized 2.1 stars to turn out at the polls." With such a junior President Obama madeadding a staggeringly ment generated Even though there is no statement in our country’s words on thethe tunnel walls million as welljobs, as boosting other the economy by 3.5 1974 turn out, Ross wants to see more ac- students’ accurate prediction during presidenthat saysgreat otherwise, societal pressures November 4th marked a monumental event in our ithconstitution Affi rmative A ction plan accepted a second presidency racially hateIspeech she’s heard. “They’re tion from Obama for that Afrikan-Americans tial racecharged saying, "Should win a second percent. Also, inanthe 2008-09 academic NC State hires Dr, Law rence M, Clark andhis invisible racial boundaries existed, kept anynation’s history when Barack Obama became the under belt, some gry because they can’t continue to hold people down. New African American Cultural center in hisfrom secondthe term. term...a big reason I will win a second year, Pell Grant consumption was about presidential seat. first African-American elected into the presidential one but Caucasian men Afrikan-Americans believe 1975 People only react out of hate because of fear” she Obama doubled Blacka America to be a to term is, because the Republican nominee $18 billion; in 2011-12, Obama’s win signified that system,deserves that seemed First African-American sorority office. Although this feat alone made national headBarack Obama owes his re-election to said. focus in this termfrom with targeted and the Republican Party have so alienit to $36 billion. Sponsored by the U.S. to keep minorities proslines, perhaps the greatest significance is the impact have been put in placeprimary 1988 Regardless of race, political views, classification, or them, rather than his own merit. With social and economic programsand in their ated the fastest-growing demographic Department of Education, the Pell Grant NC S ta te re cognizes Martin Lutherthe K ingwin , Jr. D ahad y to crumble, our on not just African-Americans, but mi- pering in the U.S., is beginning any other divisive factor among the student body, the registered AfrikanStud e nts march a gainst racism nority citizens of this country as a whole. about 16 millionnation is uniting. Or iscommunities, it? though this is not to say the group in the country, the Latino commuProgram provides need-based financial incident motivated students and staff alike to ask American voters, and roughly 93 percent 1990 “It was breathtaking, I’m still stunned” said Jerry Early Wednesday morning, wordssolely thatfocus threatened President should on Afrikannity." Many voters, in the Latino Deciaid to college students. Brain Nix on a ack ed of them voting Democratic, does he really Bettis a senior in chemistry. “It’s all attainable. You the president-elect’s life along with otherofracist and Americans. Gary Younge the Guardsions poll, said the critical concerns in With Obama saying recently that "we Continued on Pg.2 owe the Presidency to blacks? 1991

Zoe Saldana, Black Enough to Play Nina Simone? DeErricka Green Managing Editor

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

Simone fans upset with decision to cast Saldana in role

inger, songwriter, musical visionary, regal,

She was later told by someone working at Curtis that

controversy is not all

radical, civil rights activist and Afrikan

she was rejected because she was black.

that surprising. With

American pioneer- all wrapped up into the

Simone later cited this as one of the incidents that

a few exceptions-

woman known fondly as the High Priestess of Soul,

contributed to her eventual involvement in the Civil

Angela Bassett as

Nina Simone.

Rights Movement, especially in her music.

Tina Turner and

Since 2005, talks of a film depicting Simone’s life

She famously addressed the racial inequality in

Halle Berry as

have been floating around Hollywood with a script

America in the song “Mississippi Goddam” (1964),

Dorothy Dandridge-

written by Cynthia Mort, the writer and producer of

her response to the murder of Medgar Evers and

Hollywood has a long

such hit shows as Will & Grace and Roseanne.

the bombing of a church in Birmingham that killed

standing history of

In 2010, word spread that singer Mary J. Blige was

four black children. She also performed and spoke at

shafting the black community by casting white women

slated to portray Simone. While the public’s interest was

many Civil Rights meetings, such as at the Selma to

in the lead of films based on the lives of black women.

piqued with this choice, many critics were skeptical as

Montgomery marches. In contrast to Dr. Martin Luther

to whether Blige had the expertise and overall character

Kings non-violent approach, Simone advocated violent

to play the dynamo. Alas, the public did not have to

insurgency during the civil rights period, and she

wonder about that for long, as the production ran into

hoped that African-Americans could form a separate

Nina was made, a petition on Change.org has been

financial problems, forcing a delay in the project for

state. Simone left the United States in the 1970’s,

created, which demands that Saldana be replaced.

more than a year. Blige subsequently dropped out of the

making roots in Barbados, Liberia, Switzerland and

Supporters of the petition would rather that role go

film.

the Netherlands, before finally settling in France. She

to Adepero Oduye, India.Arie or Viola Davis. The

suffered from breast cancer for a number of years (in

petition, however, has been met with criticism.

This left people to wonder who could play Simone; bloggers and Simone fans campaigned for actresses

addition to being diagnosed with bipolar disorder),

and entertainers that they felt would be more of an

before passing away in her sleep in 2003.

Zoe Saldana

Yet, the Lifetime remake of Steel Magnolias caused uproar. Alright Hollywood. Since the announcement of Saldana as the lead in

There are those who support Saldana, like artist Jill Scott, who says that her “blackness” should not be

appropriate fit for the role. Names such as Viola Davis,

Despite her passing, Simone’s audacious character

India Arie, and especially Adepero Oduye, star of the

and beauty have left a legacy that continues to resonate

her hair. Scott said to Ebony that she felt “there should

widely acclaimed film Pariah, were all thrown out as

with her fans, lifelong and new.

be some work done [on Saldana’s appearance], like a

logical choices.

defined by the color of her skin or the straightness of

Besides her outspokenness and blatant “bump

prosthetic nose…and definitely some darker makeup.”

society” attitude, Nina Simone’s name is synonymous

Is that what a legend like Nina Simone deserves?

to the surface when The Hollywood Reporter made the

with her deep chocolate skin, full lips, wide nose and

Someone of Simone’s influence and presence in the

announcement in August that Zoe Saldana had been

tight fro. Throughout her career, Simone overcame

black community should not have to settle for an

made Mary J. Blige’s replacement.

racist remarks and accusations that she did not have

actress with a prosthetic nose and dark makeup. She

the “right look” to be a star.

deserves an honorable tribute, not a game of dress up.

However, feelings of confusion and outrage bubbled

As cringe-worthy as it is to say that the public’s backlash stems from the idea that Zoe Saldana is not

While we do live in a world where Ne-Yo claims to

But the fact that Cynthia Mort initially wanted Mary

“black enough,” despite her Dominican background,

have turned down the chance to play Dr. Martin Luther

J. Blige to undertake the role, and it having been seen

it is true that Simone’s looks were as relevant and

King on the big screen because he refused to gain any

that since Saldana’s replacement, the production’s

powerful to her influence as her music.

extra pounds before the release of a new album, is

financial woes have been resolved, shows that one

it wrong for members of the black community to be

thing is pretty clear about this production- the name is

a concert pianist. As a young woman, her musical

outraged that Hollywood wants to push a Nina Simone

more important than the accurate representation of the

dreams were briefly put on hold when she was denied

that is fair-skinned, thin-lipped and narrow-nosed?

legend.

Born in North Carolina, Simone aspired to be

a scholarship to the prominent Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, despite an exceptional audition.

I guess if you look at Hollywood’s history of casting black female roles, especially in biopics, this

IT’S CRAZY LIKE A PAC K O F S E A GULLS GOING AF TER A H A L F E AT E N FRENCH FRY November 30,2012 11AM-9pm

NC STATE BOOKSTORE HARRELSON HALL

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

The Best Hugger in the World

Greek Life: Service, Scholarship and Strolling

ment because it describes what Thorpe means to people.” “She’s a campus nurturer… and she’s earned that [title] for who she is,” she said. Thorpe has impacted the lives of many people at N.C. State through her mentoring. “I couldn’t be a Mama Thorpe without [the students],” she said. Thorpe feels that many people underestimate the power of positive energy. “Sometimes you just need a hug” she said, “and more than that, I have a responsibility to the best of my ability to help students see their leadership potential, the beauty in understanding culture and love for life, and an appreciation for what others have done.” Sophomore Alexandria Pitts, like many other students, understands how vital and imperative Thorpe’s role is on campus. “Mama Thorpe is the type of person that you want to know as soon as you see her smile, or get a warm hug from her. It’s something about her spirit that is so nurturing and motherly. She has a connection with each person she meets, and it’s a connection you want to always have.” Mrs. Toni Thorpe, Program Coordinator for the African American Cultural Center, gives out hugs at the MLK Service Challenge, which was held on the 24th of January 2009 in the Ballroom in Talley Student Center. | Demi Olubanwo

Chelsea Gardner Staff Writer

t has been more than a decade since Toni Harris Thorpe joined the N.C. State family as program coordinator for the African American Cultural Center.

While her job description does not include it, on a daily basis Thorpe, or “Mama Thorpe,” a nickname given to her by students, gleefully greets familiar and unfamiliar faces. She engulfs every student who walks through the door of the African American Cultural Center in a genuine and warm embrace. Her mission is to ensure that every person feels at home and welcome in her presence. Because of her sincerity and compassion,Thorpe is one of the most respected figures within the N.C State’s African-American community. Thorpe wasn’t the first “mama” at N.C. State. Dr. Iyailu Moses, her predecessor, was known as “Mama Ilu.” Before

Thorpe knew it, students began calling her Mama Thorpe. “I am so honored to have that title,” Thorpe said. Though the nickname originated in the African-American Cultural Center, Thorpe’s nickname has grown to extend beyond the walls of the Cultural Center. Not only do current students call her Mama Thorpe and occasionally Mother Thorpe, but also alumni, faculty, and staff. Former Director of Multicultural Student Affairs Felicia Broussard said, “I think it is pretty obvious that mama is not a typical title for any faculty member. As a grad student and employee, I never would’ve referred to anyone that way. But it is very natural for people to call Toni Thorpe that, because of her nurturing way. She plays a motherly role for students and coworkers. There are very few people that she passes each day and doesn’t hug. It’s symbolic of who she is. It doesn’t matter if you are a freshman, tenured faculty member, or grad student – everyone refers to her in that manner.” According to Broussard, the title is a compli-

Senior Tsekai English agrees. As an out-of-state student she instantly recognized the supportive and encouraging nature of Thorpe. She said, “Being around Mama Thorpe makes home seem not so far away…she reminds me of my own family.” Though Thorpe admits that everyone isn’t fond of the title and that her relationship with everyone is not on a Mama Thorpe basis, she still embraces the reputation in order to empower people to be the best version of themselves. “When I think about N.C. State, I see this role as a mature, nurturing support system. I, by no means, have the expertise of a counselor. In the role of Mother Thorpe, I want students to know that they are not successful by themselves nor do they fail by themselves. That’s an important component of understanding how you belong to a community.” Thorpe is progressively working to grow in her role as the community mother. She understands that the role requires selflessness with a balance. She said, “People may forget what you’re teaching but they’ll never forget how you treated them.”

Deja Williams Staff Writer

The Mu Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. strolling at the National Pan-Hellenic Stroll Off on Friday Nov. 2, 2012.| Jasmine Jack

s a part of this year’s Homecoming festivities,

The Eta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Frater-

beyond myself.”

N.C. State’s National Pan-Hellenic Council

nity, Inc. was the first NPHC organization to charter on

While Greek life on campus is extremely important

hosted a stroll off event that featured stepping

N.C. State’s campus on April 7th, 1971. Daniel Stradford a

she still feels that there is room for growth. “Overall I

from members of Divine Nine Chapters at N.C. State and

senior majoring in computer engineering is a member of

think Greek life has a positive image on campus, however,

the surrounding community. Though it is typically the

the Eta Omicron chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha. Stradford is

there is always room for improvements. People who are

first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of a Di-

a strong believer in the importance of Greek organizations

involved in Greek life are leaders both on campus and in

vine Nine Chapter, black Greek organizations do far more

on campus. “I think Greek Life is the heart beat of the Af-

the classroom,” said Baldwin.

than stroll and step.

rican American community on campus. A lot of what is

“Work still needs to be done a s far as cohesion and

On Monday, the Mu Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma

expected of minority students is directly related to the

organization is concerned,” added Stradford, “but overall,

Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted its annual Gift Wrapping Party,

Greek community, and therefore we are held to a higher

Greeks have shown flashes and more importantly, have

with the gifts collected during the event going to the Gar-

standard,” said Stradford.

shown improvement towards reaching that full potential

ner Road Community Center. As one of the Greek orga-

At N.C. State, 55 percent of Greek organization mem-

I definitely feel more of a sense of unity between organi-

nizations that makes up NPHC, this program was just one

bers have a grade point average higher than the average

zations than in the past. It has become a goal for NPHC

of the many that Afrikan American Greek organizations

student body GPA. Ebony Baldwin, a senior majoring in

organizations to move away from stereotypical norms and

host as a part of their commitment to brotherhood and

biochemistry, is a member of the Kappa Omicron Chapter

work towards creating a unified bond.”

sisterhood, scholarship, leadership, and service.

of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She feels her decision

With N.C. State serving as home to seven active chap-

to pledge AKA was one of the best she could have made.

ters of the nine sororities and fraternities that make up

“Personally since being involved in AKA I have grown

NPHC, Greek life has deep roots in its Afrikan American

as individual,” said Baldwin. I learned how to be a bet-

community.

ter sister, worker, and leader. I’ve learned that things go

9 2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

Nubian Message

Leesa Moore & Savannah Jordan

Qion Toney & Nadia Howard

Most Likely to Be in D.H. Hill

Funniest Tweeters

Biggest Procrastinators Chase Johnson & Jewel Wright e

Ra c M h

rdy a H ge

sep o J &

Chase Johnson &

Pai

Lauryn Collier & Ryan Wilson

Most Likely to Dress Up for an eight o’clock Class

Most Likely to be President

Most Likely to Turn - Up

Sean Langston, Altarique Murphy, & Radiance Gibson

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

The History of the Nubian Message By: Derek Medlin

he Nubian Message—the Afri-

claiming that administration in Raleigh

kan-American student newspa-

had promised the building of a cultural

per, formed out of extreme frus-

center in 1987, a fact which campus of-

tration and desire for change—has now served as the voice of Afrikan-American

ficials never disputed. With these calls for cultural awareness

student life and culture at the University

as the backdrop, the actual event that set

for more than 20 years.

in motion the formation of the Nubian

Much has changed since black

Message came on Sept. 23, 1992 when the

students rallied in the Brickyard in late

Technician ran a controversial column by

September of 1992 to call for the forma-

Steve Crisp. In his column, Crisp called

tion of a black newspaper.

the activists at UNC racist and bashed

The University has seen four differ-

the rally which had taken place in Chapel

ent chancellors, Centennial Campus has

Hill. The response to this statement by

exploded into one of the best research

black students in Raleigh was nothing

campuses in the country and NCSU has

less remarkable.

become the largest university in North

The next day, Sept. 24, some 200 stu-

Carolina by more than 3,000 students.

dents rallied in the Brickyard to protest

When the first issue ran Nov. 30, 1992,

Crisp’s column, even burning copies of

few on campus or off could have pre-

the Technician. Greg Washington, a leader

dicted the successes and failures that the

of the Brickyard protest in 1992, summed

publication would have in the decade to

up his feelings about what should happen

come.

within Student Media with a fairly simple phrase.

Formation The events surrounding the formation of the Nubian Message are something that students on campus at the time, whether

“We need a black paper on this campus that will give coverage to a black perspective,” he said. tive” was formed and the dreams of black

the school year at both NCSU and UNC-

students were realized with the paper’s

Chapel Hill, Afrikan-American students

first issue. In that first edition, editor-in-

protested and lobbied for Administration

chief, Tony Williamson, said the forma-

at both institutions to build ‘free-stand-

tion of the paper had been something

ing’ cultural centers that could expand

way over do at the University and also

knowledge and understanding of Afrikan

spoke about the goals of the newspaper.

The Black Awareness Council, a

Most vernacular or traditional languages on the continent spell Afrika with a K; therefore the use of K is germane to us.

rom phrases like “We in there

Over the years the Afrikan American

'doe” to “I'm finna go to work,”

slang has drastically changed, and in

vernacular is a staple in Afrikan

honor of our 20th anniversary, we put

American culture. It defines who we are

together a list to show the evolution

whether we want it to or not. Our slang

of slang from 1992 to 2012. Each term

gives us a certain swagger that can't be

says something about our culture and

copied, and those who have tried have

gives insight into the Afrikan American

failed. We as a community should accept

perspective.

all aspects of our background, including the way we speak.

Reprinted from the Jan. 27, 1994 issue of the Nubian Message

90’s Term Audi 500

Definition

Cheese Da Bomb

The best, simply outstanding; no comparison or greater value can be placed to another of similar type of manner

Dawg Flava

“The Nubian Message should and

Example

A phrase used to signify when “I’m audi 5000, I’ll catch you on the flip side” one was leaving a location

Money

On Nov. 30, 1992, that “black perspec-

black or white, remember vividly. Early in

American culture.

a? k i r f A n i ” K “ Why the

The Evolution of

Shawn Murray Staff Writer

“No, I can’t go out tonight I’m trying to stack my cheese.” “The dinner they serve at Case is da bomb.”

2012 Translation Outtie/Out Racks Dope

Close friend or homie

“Oh you know Mr. Wuf? Thats my dawg too!”

Bruh

What makes a person stand out, their uniqueness

Yo! Sista over there by the atrium got mad flava dawg!”

Swag

Calling, following, and/or obsessing over someone

“She keep paging me yo, why is she sweating me?”

Thirsty

will be the voice for Afrikan-Americans

student group at UNC, led the charge

at N.C. State,” he wrote. “It will be a

in Chapel Hill, calling for a permanent

publication in which people can learn

stand alone building that could be used

about different aspects of our culture, as

for the study of Afrikan-American

well as find out useful information about

culture. Students at NCSU did the same,

campus.”

Sweating

13 2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

The NCSU African American Cultural Center congratulates the Nubian Message on 20 years of outstanding service to the university and to the community.

Bamboozled: Culture’s Not a Costume DeErricka Green Managing Editor

of the Special Collections n celebration of Halloween, junior members of

Research Center, these

the Duke Women’s Lacrosse team hosted a party

minstrel shows were “a

and costume contest at head coach Kerstin Kimel’s

playful opportunity to

house. The women decided to dress as characters from

represent oneself as ‘others’”

The Little Rascals. This meant someone had to portray

and earned these women

Buckwheat, which of course meant, that someone had

“the good wife diploma.”

to be in blackface. Junior, Taylor Virden donned the costume for the night.

Upcoming Events The African American Cultural Center at North Carolina State University will present, An Evening with Iyanla Vanzant, Celebrating the Legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 14, 2013 from 6PM to 8PM at the McKimmon Center on the campus of North Carolina State University. The event is part of the campus-wide commemoration of the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A ticket is required. Free to NCSU students, faculty and staff (with ID). $10 for public. All STUDENT TICKETS must be picked up at the McKimmon Center beginning at 4:30 on the day of the event. Must be picked up no later than 15 minutes prior to the start of the event. Tickets are available at NCSU Ticket Central. http://oied.ncsu.edu/aacc/?page_id=741

Almost 60 years later, society has, arguably, not

Photographs of the rascals were uploaded to the

come too far from this

Duke athletic website, but were taken down earlier this

point. Whether it’s the

month. The team and coaches have since apologized

entertainment industry

for the photo, Kimel saying that some of the costume

trying to be sensational or

choices were “insensitive and inappropriate.” She also

white fraternity/sorority

commented that, despite the party being hosted in her

girls and boys playing dress

home, the team members should have realized how the

up for Halloween, blackface

pictures would be viewed.

has not disappeared. It

Reproduction of a 1900 William H. West Minstrel Show Poster | Originally published by the Strobridge Litho Company

is still about presenting stereotypical, exaggerated “black

“A group of wives of N.C. State students organized minstrel shows as members of “State’s Mates.”

behavior.” The blackface itself by whites, no matter if the intent is joking or not, is a mockery of Afrikan-Americans because it reduces them to one critical feature: their skin.

Donate necessities and play items for local Raleigh area children during this cold winter season.

November 1 - December 7, 2012 http://oied.ncsu.edu/aacc/?page_id=696

Remember, the AACC Library is a great place to study and prepare for finals! For more information about AACC programs, please visit our website http://oied.ncsu.edu/aacc/

“Culture costumes” refer to one-dimensional Blackface is traced back to the white working-

caricatures that are not authentic. They represent a time

class during the 1820s. The performers who blacked

when minorities were considered the “exotic” and the

their faces and mimicked Afrikan-American dance

“other.” They take distinct traditions of people such as

and music, laughingly perpetuated grotesque and

Native Americans, Hispanics and Asians, without taking

dehumanizing stereotypes of the people. The beliefs

into account the origins of those traditions, then turn

passed on through minstrel shows spread throughout

them into sources of entertainment. What does that

the world, and even had a place on N.C. State’s campus

tell us about our society that amongst scary costumes

until as late as the 1960s. A group of wives of N.C.

such as witches and vampires, racialized costumes have

State students organized minstrel shows as members

become a staple? These choices normalize “whiteness,”

of “State’s Mates.” They portrayed Afrikan -Americans

because who dresses up as a businessman or a soccer

by dressing in blackface and depicting stereotypical

mom? These costumes do nothing but reinforce

caricatures such as the “Mammy.” They also portrayed

inaccurate ideas about cultural communities and

Native Americans as the “Wolfpack Squaws.” According

dehumanize the individuals they attempt to represent.

to the State of History website, which serves as a digital history of student life based on the materials

“I’m a concerned Native woman who simply wants to educate,” Brittany Hammonds, a member of Alpha

Pi Omega Sorority, Inc., a historically Native American organization, said in response to this issue. “I want people to be aware that my history is not a joke and that my culture is not a costume. I do understand that there will always be ignorance in the world, but as a Native American, I plan on doing all that I can to ensure that some of that ignorance becomes eliminated and, more importantly, [people become] educated.” There are those who believe that blackface is so offensive it should be erased from the cultural record. It is said to be an example of history that is “best forgotten.” But the truth is that no history is best forgotten. It’s foolish, dangerous, and insulting to censor historical events society is not comfortable remembering. You’ve made your bed, Amerikkka. Now you have to lie in it. Take these historical truths and use them to educate. Lack of education is one of the reasons people have no idea why critics are being so “sensitive.”

15 2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

Destiny McNeil Staff Writer

The Evolution of the R&B Diva

Christopher Lynn Staff Writer

n Nov. 19, Rihanna released her 7th album, Unapologetic. This project delves into the pop star’s life, especially her highly publicized

relationship with Chris Brown. The album exemplifies her unapologetic attitude, as shown in “Phresh Out The Runway”, “Pour It Up”, and “Nobody’s Business”. Receiving

The Haute Seat: 90s Faux-Pas

ll 90s and late-80s babies have reminisced on how great the 90s were, from the music, television, movies and most importantly,

for female artist with the most consecutive number one albums. Billboard dubbed Unapologetic as Rihanna’s “most highlighting “Stay” and “Nobody’s Business” as must hear songs. CNN however, saw the album in a different light, giving the CD a B+ grading overall. “The album is less defiant than its title suggests, with many lovely moments by the piano.” Billboard projects Unapologetic to sell 260,000 records by the end of Black Friday weekend. That amount of record

of the 90s also held down their respective fashions. Along with The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Living Single

the fashion. All of these items blended together per-

considered classic and iconic, but even they couldn’t

was a great staple show in the 90s. Another rap-

fectly to create a cohesive look. The trends shown on

rectify the Zubaz Pants trend that he so willingly

per turned actor, Queen Latifah, was noted for her

television and movies were all the same. Maybe this

embraced.

fashion. While Afrocentric clothing was a major hit

For those unfamiliar with Zubaz, they are tapered

with the Queen, chunky heels unfortunately were

but nonetheless, the fashion was consistently great.

pants, similar to “ Hammer Pants,” with the outer part

not. Chunky heels of the 90s were like the platforms

Well, for the most part.

of the leg longer than the inner part. With an elastic

of the 70, need I say more as to why they were a style

waistband which allowed for greater flexibility and

faux-pas? Chunky heels were on everything: strapped

when thinking about great 90s fashion, Will Smith is

movement, Zubaz were almost always bright, flashy

shoes, pumps, boots, sneakers. There was no escaping

usually the first person who comes to mind. I must

and just downright gaudy. The pants were originally

them. With anything you wanted to wear, there was a

admit, that at first glance Smith appears to be a good

created in a zebra print, but later began to be sold in

chunky heel for that occasion. Not to say these shoes

candidate, but when you really look at his 90s style, it

almost any print imaginable. With the already eclectic

were limited to Living Single, but if I were to see a

is painfully obvious that he had some real hit or miss

style of his neon shirts and hats, Will Smith wearing

“prospect” wear these shoes, I’d be sure to leave them

moments. His collection of Jordans and snapbacks

Zubaz pants often made him look like a Kaleidoscope

living single.

make him a poster-child for good 90s fashions, but

Pauper instead of a Fresh Prince.

Because of his role as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,

confident, emotionally resonant work since ‘Rated R’”,

We all know the Fire Red and Metallic Jordan Vs

Not to be outshadowed by the men, the women

that Smith had were at the time fire, and still today

was because most actors were rappers, or vice versa,

good reviews, Unapologetic met Madonna’s chart record

those colorful prints on the other hand, don’t.

sells is pretty impressive given that former-Queen of Pop Christina Aguilera’s newest album, Lotus, sold barely 79,000 copies. I find it interesting that such an iconic voice who once ruled the nation with her high belted notes and scandalous tracks, is now running behind a rookie in the game. This generation of musicians is considerably different

listeners to the floor. Mariah Carey likewise, produced

yourself the best person you can be as a brand. Twenty years

than that of twenty years ago. I will be the first to vouch

meaningful hits like “Hero”, and backed up her messages

ago, vocal ability and relation to the everyday person was

for Rihanna, but I can see the difference between her and

with impressive vocals.

important to ensure a rise to fame. Today is a different day

Whitney Houston. Twenty years ago, records like “I Will

The topics in the songs now and twenty years have not

Always Love You” made the world want to fall in love,

drastically changed, but the way the message is conveyed

and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” immediately drew

has. Now it is all about being bold, different and making

Whitney’s Top 5 Songs 1. I Will Always Love You 2. I Wanna Dance With Somebody 3. Greatest Love of All 4. All the Man That I Need 5. I’m Your Baby Tonight

and different world than twenty years ago.

Rihanna’s Top 5 Songs 1. We Found Love 2. Umbrella 3. Disturbia 4. Take A Bow 5. Rude Boy

Congratulations to the staff of the Nubian Message Past & Present h Anniversary Happy 20th Best Wishes f for continued success!! “The most important thing to remember is this: To To be ready at any moment to give up what you be ready at any moment to give up what you are for what you might become.” ― W.E.B. Du Bois

17 2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

e t a t S . C . N The

19 Kierra Leggett Editor-in-Chief

R E H P CY

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

attended Monday’s cypher, has produced

ike “Mic Live” Greene spends his days work-

records for some of hip-hop’s finest including

ing at the Trader Joe’s on Wake Forest Road

Jay-Z, Nas, Drake, J.Cole and Ludacris.

in Raleigh, but every Monday at 11:30 p.m.

he can be found underneath the railroad tracks at the Free Expression Tunnel.

“...the cypher is almost a lost

The 27-year-old emcee, is one of many people who

art, but N.C. State is bringing it

congregates at the entrance of the tunnel on Monday

back.”

nights to showcase free style (improvised) raps at what

-9th Wonder

has come to be known as, the N.C. State Cypher. The N.C. State Cypher was founded in 2010 by Mic

“Before record deals, World Starr, BET or

Live and his friends who call themselves Uno Cero.

anything that’s where it all started, is rapping

Initially consisting of about 10 local rappers standing in a

in the park,” said Douthit. “The cypher—em-

circle and “spitting bars,” the N.C. State Cypher has grown

ceeing is one of the four elements of hip hop,

in proportion, with an average of 30-40 spectators and

so it’s always important to keep that going

rappers showing up, weekly.

and make sure students know that’s where it

“I like that everyone continually raises the bar, but at

all came from,” said Douthit. “For students

the same time ain’t no real crazy sh*t popped off,” Mic

to do that… it’s kind of refreshing to see. It

Live said.

seems like the cypher is almost a lost art, but

Cyphering, a fundamental aspect of hip-hop and rap

N.C. State is bringing it back.”

culture, began as a way for rappers to lyrically battle one

Freddie “Skyy Walker” Staton, a junior

another and discover whose poetic prowess was best. A

majoring in anthropology is one of the origi-

breeding ground for creativity, the cypher has often been

nal N.C. State students helping to revitalize

viewed and depicted by mainstream media as an incuba-

the art form.

tor for rap beef and confrontation.

“I heard about the cypher through word

Despite the deviant stigma often associated with the

of mouth, and I just started going maybe the

cypher and underground rap movement, the N.C. State

third or fourth time they had it. Back then

Cypher completely undermines this stereotype.

there were only like five people who would be

“it’s a judgment free zone. If you want to recite poetry, if

out there,” said Skyy Walker.

you want to rhyme, if you even just want to say some-

A rap artist with a strong local fan base, Skyy Walker

thing—we’re open to expression,” said Farouk Bseiso who

has had to put his musical aspirations to the side in order

goes by the stage name Say So.

to focus on his academics. During this time however,

Since its humble beginnings in 2010, the N.C. State

the N.C. State Cypher has remained his musical outlet.

Cypher has become a movement with the social net-

“I took a rest from [rapping] because of school, but the

working site Twitter providing for it a lot of momentum.

cypher helps me keep my love of music and also it helps

Twitter is also where music industry executive and N.C.

keep me focused on what I’m really in school for.”

State alumnus, Patrick Douthit learned about the N.C. State Cypher.

Above: Local emcee Mike “Mic Live” Green at the N.C. State Cypher on Nov. 26, 2012. | Kierra Leggett

sity. Those students and local emcees who pioneered the movement hope that it continues to spread. “The Cypher is a type of culture that we have here at N.C. State and it’s becoming a big thing,” said Skyy Walker. “It’s living up to what culture does. Culture lives outside of you and me, and [as it spreads] it’s living outside of our campus now.”

The N.C. State Cypher has inspired the creation of organized cyphers on the campuses of North Carolina

Douthit, who goes by the stage name 9 Wonder and th

A&T State University and North Carolina Central Univer-

#NCSTA T

ECYPHE R

Photo Courtesty of Andrew Weaver

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

2012 • Nubian Message 20th Anniversary Edition

Top Five Moments in Nubian History

NUBIAN MESSAGE RALEIGH, N.C. n VOL. X, ISSUE 17 n THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM n MARCH 28th, 2012 BSB/UAB Prepare for Pan Afrikan n 2

The Demonization of Trayvon Martin n 4

Interview with LifeKiT n6

Trayvon Martin Shooting

“You don’t need to be an Afrikan American for your heart to go out to the family affected by this heinous murder.” – Cordero Slash, March 21, 2012 issue

Rodney King and the LA Riots “I realize I will always be the poster child for police brutality, but I can try to use that as a postive force for healing and restraint.” – Rodney King; May 1, 1992 On the night of March 2, 1991, Afrikan American male Rodney King, and two pas-

The fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin by

sengers were pulled over by four Los Angeles Police Department officers for speeding.

George Zimmerman took place on the

The officers used excessive force to arrest King, using a taser and giving him almost

night of February 26, 2012, in Florida.

56 blows to the head, ankles, knees, and wrists with batons. The confrontation was

Martin was an unarmed 17-year-old Af-

recorded by a resident and went viral overnight. In April of 1992, the officers were

rikan American. Zimmerman was

acquitted of the charges they faced for assaulting King. Following the acquittal, thou-

the neighborhood watch coordinator for

sands of people then rioted for six days throughout the city.

the area in which Martin was temporarily staying. When police arrived on the scene,

AIDS Epidemic

“Aids is the leading killer of young adults in 79 cities, including Raleigh, NC.” – Tawana Myles, Summer 1995 issue

Zimmerman told them that Martin had attacked him and that he had shot the teen in self-defense. The circumstances surrounding Martin’s death, the initial deci-

In the summer of 1995, the AIDS epidemic was on a steady climb

sion not to charge Zimmerman, and ques-

upward. This was especially true on college campuses and within

tions about Florida’s “Stand Your Ground”

the Afrikan American community. Young adults were becoming in-

law received controversial attention. Al-

fected because they were misinformed and uneducated about AIDS

legations of racist motivation for both the

and HIV. Eric Lynn Wright, a.k.a. rapper Eazy-E, died on March 26 from AIDS-related illness one month after being diagnosed and by the end of the year, 500,000 cases of AIDS have been reported in the U.S.

Nubian Message Editor Tony Wiliamson Dies at 23, March 1994 “To us, he was more than the Editor- he was family. Always remember him, his deeds, and especially his legacy, for it shall never perish. And through his legacy, he shall live in our hearts from now on.” – Jay Cornish; March 24, 1994 issue Founder of the Nubian Message, Tony Williamson, passed at age 23 due to blood clots. Williamson was a true leader in the Afrikan American community at N.C. State. For an entire year, Williamson funded the Nubian Message out of his own pocket to make sure that students received the messages he felt were important. He would have graduated that same year. His passing was a true tragedy for the Afrikan American community at N.C. State.

“We are Trayvon Martin”

On Monday, many students wore hoodies around campus in support of 17 year old Trayvon Martin who was murdered last month in Sanford, Florida. The death of the teenager has sparked marches and rallies all around the nation, and has reopened a big discussion about race in America. We have more coverage inside...

“We Are TATE”

shooting and police conduct contributed to the public’s demand for Zimmerman’s arrest. President Obama, speaking on the case said, “When I think about this boy, I think about my own kids, and I think every parent in America should be able to understand why it is absolutely imperative that we investigate every aspect of this... If I had a son, he would look like Trayvon.” In October, Zimmerman’s trial was set for June 10, 2013.

Kanye West Infamously Declares that “George Bush Doesn’t Care About Black People.” “I hate the way they portray us in the media. You see a black family, it says, ‘They’re looting.’ You see a white family, it says, ‘They’re looking for food.’ And, you know, it’s been five days [waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black.[…] With the way America is set up to help the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible. […] George Bush doesn’t care about black people.”-Kanye West, September 2, 2005 A Concert for Hurricane Relief was a celebrity benefit concert focusing on raising money, and providing relief and awareness for those devastated by the events of Hurricane Katrina. The concert’s most notable moment occurred when Kanye West was presenting on camera with Mike Myers. West swerved off script and harshly criticized the government’s response to the crisis, stating, famously that “George Bush doesn’t care about black people.” Bush later called the remarks “the worst moment in his presidency,” feeling he was unjustly accused of racism. Reactions of the incident varied, most criticizers of the government’s response to the hurricane feeling that West had no need to apologize.