THE SENTINEL OF THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY AT N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY
NUBIAN MESSAGE RALEIGH, N.C. n VOL. X, ISSUE 19 n THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM n APRIL 25th, 2012 The New Editor of the Nubian Message n 2
Review of “Think Like A Man” n6
New Vision for Wolf TV n6
Ebony Harlem Awards Recap KIERRA LEGGETT | EDITOR ELECT
After a period of voting last week, the winners of the 2012 Annual Ebony Harlem Awards were revealed. The Awards ceremony which began in the Spring of 1993 honors outstanding male and female students in various categories ranging from excellence in service to excellence in sports. It began as a way of honoring exceptional African American students in the N.C. State community. Also, an award is given to the African American Student Advisory Council (AASAC) organization of the year, which was chosen by a panel of faculty and staff members. Each winner received a Sankofa Bird, which serves as a reminder the importance of remembering one’s roots in order to progress. The program was hosted by Mario Terry and Debra Buck. Two selections were provided by the Uninhibited Praise Gospel Choir. The NC State chapter of the NAACP was awarded as the AASAC organization of the year. Also at the Awards Ceremony the new members of AASAC were introduced to the African American community. Alexis Teasdell will serve as the Chair of AASAC for the 2012-2013 academic year. A winner at Tuesday’s awards ceremony for Instrumen-
EBONY HARLEM CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
Photo by Ms. Toni Thrope The winners and nominess for the 2012 Ebony Harlem Awards. The Ebony Harlem Awards recognizes African American students in various categories ranging from excellence in service to excellence in sports.
President Makes Another Stop in the Triangle CJ GUION | EDITOR IN CHIEF
Tuesday afternoon, President Barack Obama made a stop at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill to discuss student debt. Hundreds of students and residents of Chapel Hill lined the streets to hear the President’s speech at the Carmichael Arena on the university’s campus. This is the first time that Obama has visited the campus since becoming president. Obama revealed to the crowd that he and Michelle Obama just paid off their student loans eight years ago. The President told students that he has been in their position. “When we married, we got poor together” the President said. If Congress does not act by July 1st, the interest rates for the popular federally subsidized loans will double. The hike will affect new subsidized Stafford Loans, which are primarily issued to low and middle income undergraduates. The President has called on congress to take action against this, and encouraged students to tweet about it with the hashtag #don’tdoublemyrate. "Everybody will give lip service to this. You’ll hear a lot of folks saying ‘oh this is important, this is important’” Obama said. "But it requires not just words but deeds. Since you were born, tuition and fees to American colleges have more than doubled." The President also noted that in America the debt for student debt is now higher than credit debt. President Obama believes that student debt has had a damaging effect on the economy, and that students will not have the options to spend money on items such as new homes and new business, because they will be paying off loans that they received years ago in college. Photo by CJ Guion President Barack Obama stopped in Chapel Hill on Tuesday afternoon to discuss student debt. In July, interest rates on federally subsidized student loans will double unless congress takes action.
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What’s Happening on Campus WEDNESDAY
25
NEWS
NUBIAN MESSAGE
Welcome Letter from the New Editor
Last Issue of Nubian Message for the Year Thursday
26 Student Media End of the Year Celebration 5PM - 8PM Washington Sankofa Rm Witherspoon
Friday
27 Last Day of Classes!!!!
Saturday
28 Uninhibited Praise Gospel Concert 2:30 Talley Student Center L.D.O.C (Last Day of Class Basketball Tournament) 1 PM Sponsored by Collegiate 100
INTERESTED IN JOINING THE NUBIAN MESSAGE? SEND US A MESSAGE AT: EDITOR@ NUBIAN.NCSU. EDU GOOD LUCK ON YOUR EXAMS AND CONGRATULATIONS TO THE GRADUATING SENIORS.... GOOD LUCK ON FUTURE ENDEAVORS
KIERRA LEGGETT | 2012-2013 EDITOR OF THE NUBIAN MESSAGE
19 years ago, Nubian Message Founder and first Editorin-Chief, Tony Williamson published the first edition of the Nubian Message, with a promise to “represent the African American community at NCSU totally, truthfully, and faithfully.” With my own personal promise to uphold the same sentiments as our original founder, it is with a great sense of pride and excitement that I, Kierra Leggett, introduce myself to you as the new Editor-in-Chief of the Nubian Message for the 2012-2013 academic year. The Nubian Message has long been, and continues to be, a firsthand witness and source of groundbreaking news pertinent to the African American sector of our campus community. I hope to continue building upon the Nubian’s legacy as such and it is my sincerest hope that you will continue to support myself, and my staffs in doing so. While undoubtedly the Nubian Message staffs plays a major role in providing for the campus a news-worthy paper, perhaps even more vital to the paper’s production is you
all— the readers. It is my vision for the upcoming year to create a close knit, more connected network of Nubian Message readers via the channels of Facebook, Twitter, and our newly updated website, thenubianmessage.com. I urge you all to infiltrate the Nubian Message into all facets of your daily life and to think of it as yet another means to get your voice heard on campus. If you stumble across a little known fact that you think needs to be made more common knowledge around campus, shoot me an e-mail (editor@nubian.ncsu.edu)! If you happen to make the acquaintances of individuals, whether they be political figures, celebrities, or alumni, send us a twit pic (@ NUBIANMESSAGE) and you may just see your picture (and tweet!) featured inside the next edition of the paper. With November marking our 20th anniversary, I look forward to leading the Nubian Message in the direction of continued success during such a milestone year. Join me in this journey as we aim for one of the best years of publication yet! Sincerely, Kierra Leggett
Nubian Message Sentinel of the African-American Community at North Carolina State University since 1992
CJ GUION | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF KIERRA LEGGETT | 2012 - 2013 EDITOR ELECT JASMINE HARRIS | MANAGIING EDITOR STAFF WRITERS: CORDERO SLASH CHELSEA GARDNER ELIZA BROOKS KELVIN CARTER YOLANDA RAY ALEXIS TEASDELL TEVIN BYRD HIND MALIK SAMPSON BLOH PHOTOGRAPHERS: MELVIN MOORE KAREEM WILLIAMS 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 Biltmore Hall
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
NUBIAN MESSAGE
PERSPECTIVES
APR. 25TH, 2012 | PAGE 3
What I learned in My First Year of College CHELSEA GARDNER | STAFF WRITER
When I received my letter of admittance to North Carolina State University, I had no idea what to expect or what was in store for me…I just knew that I was excited. I am sure many other freshmen probably felt the same way. Looking back on the years approaching my first year of college, I was an eager teenager anticipating the days when I would walk across that stage and enter a new phase of life. Now many of us remember hearing a college graduate say, “College is the best four years of your life.” With those promising words resonating through my mind, I just knew that it was the perfect place for me. However, a couple months before my move-in date, I became a ball of nerves. I was scared and worried about embarking on a new journey. I kept thinking, “I’m not ready! It is too soon to leave; I just need another week.” I just knew things would never be the same. The day that my parents dropped me off at NC State, I could hardly speak, let alone breathe. I was finally here and it was all hitting me at once. Now, in this moment, some people may have wanted to cry. Some people may have wanted to shout. Some people may have wanted to start dancing. No matter how you felt or what you did, that brief moment in time would always be cherished, because it was the moment we began a four-year journey that would change our lives forever. For me, it was the moment that I realized; I am on my own now. I am
responsible. I am independent. Despite all of my worries, this year has turned out better than I could have ever imagined. Without a doubt, my freshman year of college has exceeded all of my expectations. I have finally realized why college graduates even in their late 40’s or 50’s say, “it is one of the most fulfilling experiences in your life.” North Carolina State University is overflowing with opportunities and is full of talented students seeking success. With this in mind, I have grown to realize that NC State is truly best fit for me. When I reflect on this year, I will remember listening to President Obama in Reynolds Coliseum, celebrating the Sweet Sixteen in basketball, winning the Belk Bowl in football, experiencing Pan Afrikan 2012, participating in service around campus, celebrating NCSU’s 125th birthday, and so much more. When you look back, maybe you’ll imagine all-nighters in DH Hill, eating insects in the dining halls, adjusting to dorm life, or being “college broke”. No matter what you reflect on, we can officially say that we have survived our first year of college. When we return home to all of the people who helped us get to this great University, we can proudly say that we are one step closer on the road to success. This year has been truly amazing and one I will never forget. I can only imagine how awesome the next three years at State will be.
Final Letter from Editor
CJ GUION | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF
Well after 20 issues this academic year, I am writing my final letter from the Editor. I have enjoyed being in this position this year, but now I must pass on my role to Kierra Leggett who will be leading the Nubian Message into its 20th year of publication. While the road for the Nubian Message has not been a smooth path, I feel that this has been a very successful year for the publication, and also feel that it is headed in the right direction. While the Nubian Message only comes out once a week, as opposed to everyday there is a lot of work that goes into the publication behind the scenes. Each editor/general manager under Student Media is expected to spend at least 20 hours being involved in some aspect of the publication. For me, most of those hours were spent Sunday through Tuesday night making sure that all the articles were in, and adding the final touches to the layout. Then the next day I would make the drive to Durham to pick up the paper and
place it around campus, as it is not delivered here. At times, it was tough juggling this in addition to serving as Vice President of Collegiate 100, being a Community Assistant at Avent Ferry, and my academic duties. In the end, I was able to handle it quite well I believe. As editor there have been many great things that I have been able to do this year. I’ve had the chance to cover amazing stories such as when President Obama came to campus. I also got the opportunity to meet the rapper Common when he came to Raleigh a couple of months ago. I’ve covered bank robberies, earthquakes, big issues on campus, and so much more. I also must admit that I’ve enjoyed having the privilege of being able to park almost anywhere on campus, but that’s not important. When I started writing for the Nubian Message, I never thought that I would have the opportunity to lead in this position. However, as I end my career at the Nubian Message, as well as my undergraduate career at NC State, I believe that it has been well worth it. I started out as a writer, and now I leave with editing, photography, and basic graphic design experience. I am going to miss it, but I believe that the staff of the Nubian Message, as well as the students in the upcoming years will lead the Nubian Message to greater heights in the years to come.
NUBIANMESSAGE.COM “ BEST OF SHOW FOR AN ONLINE NEWS SITE AT THE 2012 NORTH CAROLINA COLLEGE MEDIA ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE”
“LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD”
NUBIAN MESSAGE
PAGE 4 |APR. 25TH, 2012 Drama Awards:
Female Nominations: Kimberly Green Carizma Thomas Male Nominations: Kelvin Carter Julian Tucker Jason Cooper Jeremiah Kilimanjaro
Leadership Award
Photo by CJ Guion The New E-Board for the African American Student Advisory Council for the 2012-2013 academic year: Alexis Teasdell(President), Jamael Harrison (Vice President), Marshall Anthony (Parliamentarian), Tyler Ellis (Secretary)
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tal Music, Jeremy Currence, a junior majoring in Computer Engineering had this to say. “It’s an honor to win and be recognized by my peers and classmates. I hope to be a good influence and continue making good music.” Also taking home a Sankofa bird for Service, Tova Williams said, “I’m very happy to win the award. It shows my hard work paid off and I’m committed to service.” The Ebony Harlem Awards is a collaboration between African American Student Affairs, the African American Cultural Center, the Society of Afrikan American Culture, and the African American Heritage Society. Tuesday’s Ebony Harlem Awards concluded with a reception ceremony in the Sankofa room of Witherspoon Hall during which award recipients and nominees had the opportunity to mingle and congratulate one another.
Nominations: Art Award
Kandice Ross JoelleMeaghan Purifoy Male Nominations: Tevin Byrd Travis Gatling Reginald Howell
Nominations: Instrumental Music Awards Female Nominations: Lauren Houston Catherine Brewer Male Nominations: Jeremy Currence Anthony Wrisbon Roshane Wiliams
Vocal Music Award
Female Nominations: Shiona Caldwell Kelsey Waller Jazmine Davis (Winner) Yuri Powe Ivana Mbullah Tierra Pressley Leesa Moore Male Nominations: Trevon Nelson Jamael Harrison (Winner) Marshall Anthony Julian Tucker
Female Nominations: Ashley Quick Debra Buck Jazzmine Small Lauryn Collier Tomi Oye Alexis Teasdell Victoria Adesanmi Brooke Wages Nina Scott - Emuakpor Amber Johnson Male Nominations: Braxton Jackson Jamael Harrison Chase Johnson CJ Guion Aaron Wise Mario Terry Emmanual Watson
Athlete Award
Female: Latanya Cain Male: Kwame Boatwright
Design Award
Female: Lori Guess Male: Dwayne Martin
Nominations: Distinguished Person Award: Female Nominations: Debra Buck Lauryn Collier Tomi Oyelowo Alexis Teasdell Elaine Chavis Faeben Fulford Jazzmine Small Male Nominations: Jamael Harrison Marshall Anthony Mario Terry Raymond “Chase” Johnson Braxton Jackson Justin Watkins
Nominations: Dance Awards
Female Nominations: Angelica Davis Jasmine Stockton Amira Alexander Javada Hunter Alexandria Pitts Eva Huntley Paris Smith Male Nominations: John Miller IV
Literary Award
Nash Achievement Award(GPA)
Female: Jasmine Brown Male: Linwood Joyner II
Female Nominations: Chelsea Gardner Alexis Teasdell Male Nonminations: Mario Terry Jeremiah Kilimanjaro Cordera “CJ” Guion
Service Award:
Female Nominations: Alexis Teasdell (Winner) Debra Buck Elaine Chavis Jazmine Davis Debra Buck Tomi Oye Tiffany Williams Tova Williams (Winner) Jasmine Brown Essence Howell Victoria Adesanmi Ashley Gaie Brooke Wages Tsekai English Nina Scott-Emuakpor Male Nominations: Braxton Jackson Jerry Vaughn Julian Tucker Linwood Joyner Shufarrel Bonaparte Jamael Harrison Chase Johnson (Winner) CJ Guion Justin Hill
Life After Graduation JASMINE HARRIS | MANAGING EDITOR
In December, nearly 3,400 students graduated and received degrees from the university. In a couple of weeks, another 5,000 students will be awarded their degrees and sent out into the real world. Reality comes quite quickly, especially for undergraduate students who spend between four to six years at the university, enjoying the security of being a student. Any senior right now can agree that it is a scary, yet exciting feeling for college to come to an end. This fear often comes from the uncertainty of what life may be like after NC State. The university places emphasis on how NC State degrees get jobs or NC State degrees get you into great graduate and professional degree programs, but a lot of people can agree that this may be easier said than done. While having NC State listed on your resume may help you stand out in the massive group of recent college graduates who are desperate for employment, it is still very challenging to find a job and/or get into graduate’s school. Many students have absolutely no idea what to do after graduation and are worried about being able to find a job. Many college students are also either unemployed or underemployed for months or even years after graduation. Others have received that feeling of relief after finally getting accepted into a graduate/ professional school. They are comfortable knowing that they have another 2-8 years of education to complete, knowing they have their academics to put first and the responsibilities of the real world aren’t coming just yet. According to Graduating Senior Surveys the university has conducted in the past, nearly half of graduating students are currently seeking or plan to seek paid employment. Many people who are attending graduate school are also interested in a job to support themselves through their studies. For students that may be worried about the struggle to find a job, there are options that the university provides that makes this transaction a little easier. Many professors and former students suggest planning as early as possible for life after NC State. Attending career fairs and networking events will give you ideas of what kind of job you would like to have and prepare you for interacting with employers when the
time for job hunting comes along. Attending fairs and networking could also increase your chances of having a job lined up for you after graduation. The University Career Center has tons to offer students and grads, including guidance in interviewing skills, cover letter and resume building, job searching and entering graduate’s school. You can visit the Career Development Center’s website at http://www.ncsu.edu/career/. Here you can stay updated on events and career fairs that may be happening in the area, and find internships and entry level jobs. The CDC also provides the university’s own version of Monster. com or CareerBuilder.com, called ePack. ePack is a database of career-related internship and entry level job listings by employers who specifically want NC State students. Checking this website each day could help you find the job you were looking for, or a temporary job until you can find the right one. You can visit the ePack website at www.ncsu.edu/epack. If you are planning on going to graduate, law or medical school, the best thing to do is to try to prepare for that as early as possible. Start early in talking to your academic adviser, getting recommendation letters from teachers, researching potential programs, and studying for the standardized exams. This can be challenging as well, especially for students who are not completely sure what exactly what they want to do after graduating or are bouncing from major to major. Even with being accepted into graduate school, there are new responsibilities that come with that as well. You may be required to relocate or find a job to help pay for your education. Courtney Jones, a senior and soon to be graduate in Psychology is currently facing those challenges, but says “ She received a lot of support from her advisers and professors in her graduate school hopes, and as a result she was recently accepted into the Clinical and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. It’s very important that students take advantage of the resources and support the university provides. It makes the transition out of college and into the real world much easier.
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APR. 25TH, 2012 | PAGE 5
Black on Black Murder: CORDERO SLASH | STAFF WRITER
Jennifer Hudson has recently found herself back in the spotlight for a widely different reason than her music, award winning film performance, or those heartfelt Weight Watchers commercials many are used to seeing her appear in; this time she is standing trial against William Balfour the man, and her brother in law, who murdered three of her family members in 2008 including her mother-57, brother-29, and nephew-7. Hudson testified for nearly an hour in court on the first day of the trial as the primary witness in the case against Balfour, portraying him as a supremely jealous man who made threats against members in the Hudson family on numerous occasions. Hudson even noted that Balfour would show anger when Julia Balfour, his wife and the subject of his jealousy, would allow her own son to kiss her saying things like “don’t kiss my wife” to him. During the recount of the events that happened the day of the triple homicide, when testifying, as well as when the prosecutors played the 911 tape made by Hudson’s sister, Jennifer was overcome with emotion and wept quietly in the courtroom. She later stated that “None of us wanted her to marry him” in regards to her sister’s engagement to Balfour and that the family “didn’t like the way he treated her”. When Hudson was asked on the stand whether she liked Balfour personally she made it plain that she never had “not even in grammar school”. During this part of her testimony was the only time that Balfour dared a glance at Hudson, he otherwise showed little emotion and simply stared at the jury during the whole process. Though these statements from the star witness
may be condemning in themselves, a quote that Julia Hudson, Jennifer’s sister, which was recounted the next day of the trial is much more so. She told the prosecution that Balfour stated to her “if you leave me, you will be the last to die; I’m going to kill your family first”. This statement paints the picture of an inherently violent man whose sole purpose was to selfishly keep Hudson’s sister as his wife through any means necessary. It also paints the picture of a man who is not at all stable or fit to be the husband of any self respecting woman. To add to this Balfour was a drug dealer at the time of the murder that was seen as a narcissist by many around him, and the defense did not dispute these claims. Balfour’s defense did do everything in their power to show that he was not a murderer and attempted to place blame on Hudson’s brother Jason for being the real reason the family was murdered in the first place. This was because of his own role as a drug dealer during the time of his death. Balfour’s public defender, Amy Thompson, continuously described Jason in a negative light during the first and second day of the trial noting that he was not only a drug dealer but that the family was killed with a gun that was connected to him. Thompson also points out that Balfour’s DNA could not be linked to Jason Hudson’s stolen SUV which held the body of Julian King, Hudson’s nephew. Though these may seem like weak arguments to those who knew that Balfour had the potential to be a killer, only time will tell whether Balfour will be convicted of the murders of three members of the Hudson family and whether justice will finally be upheld in the courtroom.
Remembering Malcolm X LAMONT LILLY | GUEST WRITER
“It is incorrect to classify the revolt of the Negro as simply a racial conflict of black against white, or as a purely American problem. Rather, we are today seeing a global rebellion of the oppressed against the oppressor, the exploited against the exploiter.” El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, 1964 Brief yet exhaustive, this passage represents the Malcolm X America doesn’t want you and I to know—the more complete post-Mecca Malcolm who could once again ignite an entire nation if only he were properly revisited. It seems like just yesterday, the life and times of Malcolm Little were resurrected through Spike Lee’s 1992 cinematic production, Malcolm X. Bold, vivid and vulgar, Spike’s production wasn’t only a history book for the hood; it was the artistic catalyst of a new cool: the infamous black “X” hat. It was also an introduction to Malcolm as a martyr of resistance. How unfortunate, though, that such a revival was short lived for a generation of budding hip hoppers who were never lucky enough to meet George Wallace or Lincoln Rockwell, were never exposed to the White Citizens’ Council and never learned about Malcolm in school. Once I discovered Malcolm, I clearly understood why. Could you imagine all the Black men and political prisoners America has incarcerated converting into disciples of Malcolm X? Why, the oppressed would have their own nation by now! Malcolm’s teachings were simple: Black is beautiful; love your roots, family and community; feed the mind and atone within; know thyself and the rest will follow. Quite the gentle giant, Malcolm was “The Hate That Hate Produced.” He did possess an unwavering commitment to Black liberation. And what’s wrong with that? Was it true that Malcolm openly declared war against imperialism, colonialism and white supremacy? Damn right! But understand that Brother Malcolm wasn’t just a Negro leader, he was a global figure for the entire African Diaspora – for the working, for the poor and oppressed worldwide, an NOI apostle turned international Pan-Africanist and Human Rights advocate. Malcolm wasn’t racist, not even a “reverse racist,” as often depicted. He loved The People—his people and all people. As for any institution, organization or government that wasn’t for The People, yes, Malcolm called them out! To Malcolm, one was either for the oppressed or against the oppressed, regardless of race or social class. He would tell you in a minute, “We got some Black devils running around here, too!” He was a man so complex, that at times, he would even check himself. To Malcolm, NO ONE was exempt from being accountable to the masses. No one was exempt from being accountable to the truth. That was Malcolm, a mercenary for justice unadulterated. In James Baldwin’s dagger of a memoir, No Name in the Street (1972), Baldwin meticulously dedicates five pages to Minister Malcolm—intimately reflecting upon their few interactions and the qualities of a man he fiercely admired. Even in disagreeing with certain points, one couldn’t help but marvel at Malcolm’s tenacious and articulate “plain talk,” particularly from the lips of an ex-convict with no high school diploma. But Malcolm was sharp—so sharp that long time veteran and Civil Rights organizer, Bayard Rustin, eventually refused to publicly debate with him. Not only was Malcolm an avid reader, he was equally the
profound listener. Brother Malcolm would take the words of an opponent, and if they weren’t careful, hang them with their own rhetoric – especially when engaging enthusiastic integrationists as James Farmer (founder of CORE). Unlike many of today’s Uncle Tom Black spokesman, Malcolm never spoke or wrote to impress folk. This self-proclaimed “field negro” would instead communicate in a language all could understand, from the highest to the lowest, from the youngest to the oldest. What most formal academicians fail to realize, or acknowledge, is that Malcolm was The People’s Champ—a street prophet who could relate to Oxford University’s most esteemed professors just as sincerely and effective as with Kenya’s Revolutionary Wing, the Mau Mau. Malcolm would extend the common street hustler just as much dignity as he would Jomo Kenyatta, Patrice Lumumba or Kwame Nkrumah. In many regards, Malcolm was long before his time. While the majority of Black political figures of this era sought freedom and liberation through social inclusion (through public toilets and white hamburgers) it was Malcolm who charged Human Rights over Civil Rights and Workers’ Rights over capitalism. It was also Malcolm who championed Women’s Rights. In organizing his Organization of Afro American Unity, Malcolm systematically sought strong sisters who could play equal roles in planning and teaching, in helping to build a revolutionary movement. He poignantly articulated upon his return from Ghana, Guinea and Algeria that “Africa will not be free until it frees its women.” I state the above to say this, brothers and sisters: more so now than ever, it will be critical amidst our mounting struggles that people of all nations thoroughly re-explore the full range of Malcolm’s thoughts and analyses – his actions and his deeds, his personal evolution and stages of development. Many of his ideological building blocks are just as relevant today as they were in February 1965. While today we may have a ‘dark man’ in office, there’s far too many in prison. Job loss and ‘Urban Renewal’ continue to wreak havoc, while pig brutality seems to have gone UP in the Black community, at least from Trayvon Martin’s perspective. Not to mention, the NAACP is back fighting resegregation, right here in Raleigh, our state capital. This is what Brother Malcolm was trying to get us to understand 50 years ago. The beauty of Malcolm was that only he could represent the truth of the Black experience with such fury and eloquence—only he could dissect the brutality of American hypocrisy with such fearless clarity, with such an impenitent passion. With heart and mind, body and soul, he awoke the dead and led the army…from the front…in the street…in the rain…in the middle of the ghetto…right in front of Edgar Hoover and his COINTELPRO. In the end, Malcolm was me and Malcolm was you. Malcolm was ‘The People’ and the beat of our hearts, the one who came and gave life as he went—our Black Freedom Christ who dared to stand tall. We didn’t lose Brother Malcolm, he gave himself – a shepherd of the sheep who gave himself. Thanks Brother Malcolm, Black lives on. I too am Malcolm X, the oppressed live on. ■ Lamont Lilly is a columnist for the African American Voice and contributing editor with the Triangle Free Press. Recently, he served as an organizer with Cynthia McKinney’s “Report from Libya Tour.” He is also a Master’s Candidate at North Carolina Central University. Follow him on twitter @LamontLilly.
PAGE 6 |APR. 25TH, 2012 The Nubian Message’s Guide to What’s Goin’ On in Arts & Entertainment
BLAZIN 8 OF THE WEEK 1. Birthday Cake - Rihanna ft. Chris Brown 2. Usher - Climax 3. Up - LoveRance 4. Ayy Ladies - Travis Porter 5. Another Round - Fat Joe ft. Chris Brown 6. The Motto - Drake ft. Lil Wayne 7.Cashin’ Out - Cash Out 8. ... Ain’t Better Than Love Trey Songz
WKNC’s UNDERGROUND Top 5 of the Week 1 MAYDAY Death March 2 DJ NU-MARK “Dumpin Em All” [Single] SelfReleased 3 QUAKERS Sidewinder 4 FLEETA PARTEE “The City” [Single] Animal Houze 5 ECID I Heart Gravity Listen to Underground Radio on WKNC 88.1 FM... Sunday 12 - 2AM Sunday 10PM-12AM Monday 8PM - 12AM Tuesday 12-2AM Saturday 10PM-12AM
Inspirational Songs of the Week James Fortune & Fiya - Still Able Earnest Pugh - I Need Your Glory William McDowell - I Won’t Go Back Donald Lawrence - Spiritual
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
NUBIAN MESSAGE
Think Like a Man “Movie Review”
CHELSEA GARDNER | STAFF WRITER
This past weekend one of the most highly anticipated films of 2012 hit the theaters. It instantly became a trending topic on Twitter and so far, most people have had nothing but positive things to say. “Think Like a Man” is an adaptation of Steve Harvey’s bestseller, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man. This comedic film with a hint of romance outshined most debuts last weekend and even soared past the very popular, “Hunger Games.” Needless to say, it earned its spot as number one, grossing over $30 million. The film focuses on four couples and how Steve Harvey’s self-help book plays a role in their relationships. At the beginning, we see the book in perspective of the females, but later on the males get the book and begin to use the advice to change the relationship game. Photo courtesy of Screen Gem Productions /Sony Pictures Director, Tim Story, designed the movie to appeal to men and women of all races. Complex- Mya (Meagan Good) picks up a copy of Steve Harvey’s book “Think Like a Man.” The New ity in relationships is a universal topic and he movie was released this past weekend and made more than $30 million for the first weekend. successfully showcased this in the film. Sophonew; it just brought things to the light. My favorite quote in more Derric Fozard said, “I liked it, but it was very predictable. Also, it used a lot of basic principles of what the movie was ‘All this waiting for better, is making you bitpeople are going through [in relationships] so I can see peo- ter’.” Based on the novel, the film heavily discusses the “do’s and don’ts” in relationships by categorizing what roles people ple identifying with that.” Steve Harvey, the relationship guru, made a few appear- play such as, “the non-committer versus the girl who wants ances, but the source of most of the laughter came from Kevin the ring, the dreamer versus the woman who is her own man, Hart. Hart provided just the right amount of comedic relief or the player versus the 90-day rule girl.” Moreover, the film to keep the audience attentive and engaged. All in all, the leaves the audience reflecting on what role they may potencast had several fan favorites such as Meagan Good, Gabri- tially play. Overall, this film is definitely a must-see. It has a elle Union, Micheal Ealy, Morris Chestnut, Taraji P. Henson, great soundtrack and an interesting plot line. Whenever you and many more. Freshman Courtney Priester said, “I like this get a chance to take a break from studying for exams, make movie because it pointed out all the things we do, as women, sure to see “Think Like a Man” for much needed entertainthat could be a downfall in a relationships and/or starting a ment and laughter. new relationship. It wasn’t necessarily telling us something
WolfTV: Looking into The Future CJ GUION | EDITOR - IN - CHIEF
Wolf TV was started in 1999 as a campus movie channel under Communications Technologies Student Services. In 2005, a decision was made to change the channel, which featured student-produced content. Two years later, a student Wolf TV organization was formed and discussions began with Student Media to fully take over control of the channel. Today, Wolf TV is primarily an online-based outlet, which provides high-quality programming primarily by and for students around campus. One of the biggest issues that the channel faces today is making sure that the campus knows that it available for them, as well as strategically deciding its clear cut mission. Maurizio Lewis, next year’s general manager of Wolf TV has deemed the upcoming school year a “really important year,” in determining the future of Wolf TV.
Aside from expressing his excitement about taking on his new position, Lewis had this to say about what the campus community can expect of Wolf TV. “We definitely will be covering a lot of events next year and also partnering with a lot of organizations on campus next year to get our name out there.” In the rebuilding stages of Wolf TV, Lewis’ main focus is ultimately on making the campus, “ more aware and more involved in the organization,” something that Lewis is confident he can do, largely because of his “core staff that are also excited about the job.” This year, Wolf TV has aired special coverage of NC State making into the NCAA, The Taste of Italy hosted by Fountain Dining Hall earlier in the semester, as well as the Lie-Nielson Hand Tool Event. Check out ncsu.edu/wolftv where you can explore the Wolf TV archives, and see all of the latest Wolf TV specials.
NUBIAN MESSAGE
APR. 25TH, 2012 | PAGE 7
Nubian Message: A Look Back 1. President Obama visits campus - On September 14, 2011, President Obama visited campus to discuss the American Jobs Act which he hoped to pass through congress to increase jobs around the nation after a rough recession. Although the full Act was unsuccessful in congress, it has been passed in bits and pieces. 2. Trayvon Martin - On February 26th, 2012, a 17 year old by the name of Trayvon Martin was gunned down in Sanford, Florida on the way back to his father’s home which he was visiting at the time. At the time of his murder, his killer was not arrested, but after multiple rallies around the nation, the man who killed him George Zimmerman was arrested and charged with second degree murder. However, on late Sunday night George Zimmerman received bail and was released from jail until his hearing.
5. Pan Afrikan Festival - Each year, since 1971, the Black Students Board has hosted the Pan Afrikan Festival which is a celebration of African American culture. In collaboration with other African American organizations, many educational and social programs are held.
3. 30 Years of the Peer Mentor Progam - This year the Peer Mentor Program celebrated 30 years of service to the NC State community. The program which began in gives incoming freshmen a mentor which they can look up to during their first year of matriculation into the university. 93% of students who are mentors in the program graduate.
4. Troy Davis - On September 21st, Troy Davis was executed. He had served over 20 years on death row after being convicted of killing a police officer. For many years, Davis insisted that he was innocent and that the wrong man had been convicted, but he never was successful in winning an appeal. Many around the nation rallied around Davis, but in the end he was executed.
6. Fight Against Hate On October 17th, 2011, the GLBT Center of NC State was vandalized with vulgar language directed towards the GLBT community. Students quickly united together to fight the hate and encouraged students to strive for a welcoming, diverse campus. 7. Earthquake Felt in North Carolina - On August 23rd, 2011 students were sitting attentively in their classrooms when buildings around campus were shaken. Within seconds, the attentive students began searching the news feeds on their phones to discover that an earthquake which hit Virginia had been felt from Connecticut all the way down to Florida. This was definitely not something that North Carolina is accustomed to.
9. A look at Domestic Violence During October, the NC State community began acknowledging October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Several organizations held programs with the intent to inform the campus of a growing problem which has been increasing over the years.
8. Financial Aid increases as a result of Budget Cuts - After multiple budget cuts around campus and a hard hitting recession to the economy, there has been an influx of students seeking alternative methods for funding creating a growing problem for the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
*In No Specific Order
10. State loses prominent figure in Dr. Clark On January 24th, 2012 Dr. Lawrence Clark passed away at the age of 73. He was prominent figure at NC State and was responsible for upstarting several important programs and initiatives on campus such as the Peer Mentor Program, the African American Symposium, and the African American Student Advisory Council, as well as the African American Cultural Center.
PAGE 8 |APR. 25TH, 2012
NUBIAN MESSAGE
Advice Column: Farewell Dear NCSU, During the past year, the Nubian Message has been through many trials and tribulations. We have covered many news stories, topics, opinions, and controversies. As the Nubian Queen I have been intrigued by the diverse group of students on our campus and the monumental impact each and every one of us are making on this campus. It has been a pleasure and true honor to serve as this year’s Nubian Queen. It is my hope that the legacy of the Nubian Message will continue for many more years and that we remember to honor those that have paved the way before us. Now, I want to hand over my reign as this year’s Nubian Queen. I am positive that next year’s Nubian Queen’s dedication to the African American Community and the Nubian Message will be appreciated. I want to thank you all for your continued support of the Nubian Message, it is truly appreciated. With that being said, I wish you all nothing but the best. Thank you! Sincerely, Yolanda Ray Nubian Queen
Need Advice? If so, send your questions to the Nubian... Editor@nubian.ncsu.edu
NUBIAN MESSAGE Do you have a passion for writing? Are you an outspoken person looking to voice your opinion about issues that you care about? Are you a photographer, poet in the making, or good with design? If so, consider joining the Nubian Message which has been the “Sentinel of the African American Community at North Carolina State since 1992.” We are in our 19th year of production and are a part of NC State Student Media. We are always looking for new talent. If you are interested shoot us an email at editor@nubian.ncsu.edu Open positions: Staff Writers Photographers Copy Editors No experience needed as Student Media is compiled of students from all colleges around campus. There are also opportunities to make a little extra change on the side. LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
Co Sponsors: -NAACP at NC State -Women Empowering Society Together -Nubian Message -African American Media Club -Reach Out and Touch PRESIDENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 After his speech, the President taped a segment for “The Late Night with Jimmy Fallon Show,” at Memorial Hall which aired last night. Obama will also visit colleges in Colorado and Iowa, where he will make similar speeches such as the one delivered in Chapel Hill. While Obama successfully won all three states in 2008, it is believed that these will be hotly contested in November, when President Obama faces likely Republican nominee Mitt Romney. This speech was much different from the President’s speech that he made in September at NC State, in which he focused on jobs and the economy. Several NC State students received tickets to attend the event that was held on Saturday in Riddick Hall, which was sponsored by student group Wolfpack for Obama. Actor Mehcad Brooks (True Blood, The Game, Desperate Housewives) was scheduled to speak at the event on Saturday as well as at North Carolina Central University, but had to cancel due to filming conflicts.
See You Next Fall! In the Meantime Keep up with us 24/7 at TheNubianMessage.com “Let Your Voice Be Heard”