3-10-2022

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA CEDAR FALLS, IA THURSDAY, APRIL 5 VOLUME 114, ISSUE 42

CEDAR FALLS, IA

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2022

VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

SPECIAL INSERT

CAMPUS LIFE

SPORTS

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CAMPUS LIFE PAGE 4

SPORTS PAGE 6

Check out the special insert regarding black history and uplifting Black voices.

UNI wrestling competes at Big 12 championships.

Panthers participate in the annual “De-stress Days” as midterms come into full swing.

UNI welcomes two new bachelor’s degree programs EMMA KOEHLER Staff Writer

Two new degree programs, Bachelor of Science in Automation Engineering Technology and Bachelor of Arts in Business Analytics, will be coming to UNI in fall 2022. These degree programs were approved Wednesday by the Iowa Board of Regents.

The Bachelor of Arts in Business Analytics program stemmed from an emphasis offered in the management information systems major.

This new program is interdisciplinary and allows students to become versatile in their education.

“Business analytics or business analysts need to be able to do more about using data for business problems, so it requires the person to be more versatile in terms of having an understanding in business,” said Department Head and Professor of Management, Atul Mitra.

UNI alum Sarah Julius’ “Great Big Rainbow World” musical to debut in June SYDNEY COLOFF Staff Writer

Courtesy/UNI Business

A Bachelor’s of Science in Automation Engineering Technology and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Analytics will be coming to UNI in the fall of 2022.

Students in the new program will be able to take courses in other areas, such as economics or finance, to customize it to their interests. Mitra further expressed students will come out of the program with a skillset that is market relevant, especially

catered to the local economy of Iowa, particularly the Cedar Valley as contributing to the demand.

“We take pride in what we do as the College of Business and we have a very strong emphasis so we should be very successful in creating a

strong major,” said Mitra.

The new Bachelor of Science in Automation Engineering Technology, AET, is the first degree of its kind in the state.

See NEW PROGRAMS, page 2

NI Women’s History Month Coverage

Leila Masinovic: Making history at UNI It’s an honor to be able to tell women that look like me, ‘hey, you can do this too.’

KARLA DEBRUIN

Managing Editor

Waterloo native and newly elected Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG) President Leila Masinovac (pronounced Mach-ino-vitch) is making history at UNI as the first female-Muslim NISG president. Currently serving as the Director of Diversity for NISG, Masinovic and her running mate Micaiah Krutsinger will officially take office as president and vice president in April.

Growing up in Waterloo, Masinovic and her younger brother were raised by their mom. Her parents immigrated from Bosnia in the 1990s with nothing, and her mom worked two full-time jobs to ensure Leila and her brother had everything they needed.

As a first generation stu-

LGBTQ+ community showcased in alum’s musical

Courtesy/NISG

nize the extraordinary women who have made and are making UNI, the Northern Iowan sat down with Masinovic and discussed her time in NISG, the importance of women’s history month and women in leadership.

dent, Masinovic started out as a Nursing major at UNI, and eventually changed to a biology major with a minor in criminology and legal studies.

In honor of Women’s History Month, and to recog-

Question: What does it mean to you to be the first female-Muslin student body president at UNI? “That’s a big question.

Where do I start? It’s an honor. I get to tell women that look like me, hey, you

Leila Masinovic, pictured above, was elected as NISG’s first Muslim woman president in UNI’s history. Masinovic ran with Micaiah Krutsinger as Vice President.

can do this too. I get to show campus that somebody who looks a little different than the norm has the same ideas and wishes and hopes for this campus. To make it more of a norm to see different people in positions like these. And in positions that can greatly affect and help the campus and students and staff and everyone involved. It’s a huge honor.”

Question: What is the importance of women in leadership to you?

“I could talk all day. It’s everything. We need these voices. Not just in leadership positions, but in other positions as well. The more voices you have at the table the better equipped you’ll be to handle any situation that comes your way.”

See LEILA, page 2

Courtesy/Ring of Keys

Sarah Julius, pictured above, wrote the musical “Great Big Rainbow World,” about queer acceptance, growth and celebration.

Sarah Julius’ musical “Great Big Rainbow World,” a show about queer acceptance, growth and community, is celebrating its world premiere June 4-25 at the Gremlin Theatre in Saint Paul, Minnesota, after being postponed twice due to COVID-19.

The musical is about a young woman starting college and joining the rugby team.

She experiences love, heartbreak, growth and the power of belonging to the Great Big Rainbow World, the LGBTQ+ community.

In writing the show, Julius set out to tell a story they thought was missing in musical theatre that mirrors their own experience at college joining rugby and discovering their queer identity. “It’s a story that embodies selflove and queer joy, and really underscores the importance of representing that on stage, so that people can see that actually these historically marginalized identities.”

See LGBTQ+, page 2

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NEWS

NEW PROGRAMS

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The degree combines aspects of manufacturing and electrical engineering technology. Some courses within the degree are on electrical circuits, electrical power machinery, automated manufacturing, and hydraulics and pnuematics.

“It is predicted over the next five to 10 years, that automation robotics is going to take over about 25 to 30% of the total jobs that are available in the industry today,” said recruitment coordinator and academic advisor within the Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management, Chris Shaw.

Even though automated robots are predicted to replace human counterparts, someone

MARCH 7, 2022 | will still be needed to program these robots and fix them when they break down. Shaw also said students in the department do not have difficulty finding a job following graduation and employers often ask him for more interns or graduates than he has to offer. However, Shaw still finds people forget UNI is a contender in engineering.

“I would like our programs to become more widely known around the state,” said Shaw.

These two new degree programs are built off the momentum of UNI’s College of Business being top-ranked and the Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management will be undergoing a $43.9 million renovation.

“We need something to be able to showcase and give our

students a better learning experience and I think that’s exactly what we’re going to get with this renovation,” said Shaw.

As Shaw is the recruitment coordinator for the Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management, he finds difficulty in competing with other educational institutions in impressive resources such as the space to house these hands-on programs, support team collaboration, and engage in club activities.

“That’s my biggest hope for this new program and this new renovation is to grow our footprint and get one more person to look at us or one more person to understand what we are doing here at UNI,” said Shaw.

UNI’s top-ranked College of Business holds a record of suc-

Masinovic continued, “Rather than if there’s always a white man in power. How are you going to be equipped to handle somebody that has a different perspective or a different background that has no idea what you believe or how you see the world? Women, as well as men, bring a lot of different perspectives as well.”

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VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

cess and achievement brought by the dedication of faculty. This fuels the reveal of the new business analytics program.

“We take pride in teaching,” said Mitra, “As a college, teaching is what we are and I think students understand that. We offer rigorous, quality courses taught by faculty.”

Students interested in either degree programs are encouraged to talk to those affiliated with each. Shaw emphasizes how much engineering at UNI has to offer as an education with a different style compared to other engineering programs.

Mitra said, “Talk to our faculty or take courses. I think if you would take basic courses, you would find that this is an exciting new area with opportunities to learn here and beyond.” at the Capitol is a big thing.

Considering one, we get our funding from them and two, we want to keep those ties really good. Even after I’m gone, I want to make sure that UNI has a good standing with them.

There are a bunch of things on our platform.”

continued from page 1

Question: Discuss your time in NISG. How long have you been involved in NISG? “Actually believe it or not, not that long. Before I got the position I am currently in, the Director of Diversity, I was a senator at large for like 2 months.

That was after I gave a speech to the faculty senate. The presi-

News Editor

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

LEILA

Question: What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

“Should be everyday, shouldn’t be just a month.

Everyone in the world should be celebrated and appreciated for everything that they do and everything they bring to the table. As much as I love having a month for women, it should be a norm, it should be something that’s celebrated even when the month is gone. Having that respect and love for one another and understanding. Is something that helps us grow and helps us become better.”

CAROLINE CHRISTENSEN

Courtesy/LEILA MASINOVIC

Masinovic grew up in Waterloo, and was raised by her mother who worked two full time jobs to support Leila and her younger brother.

dent at the time recommended that I join NISG, and become a senator. It was March of 2020, so I was senator for maybe like 3 or 4 meetings. But it was good to kind of understand how the senate works and work as a senator for a little bit… The previous director of diversity recommended I apply for this position. And I did and I’m here.

I didn’t think I would get it, but now I’m here.”

called the Meditation Room… they changed it to Mindfulness Space to be more inclusive.

I worked with the Center for Multicultural Education to get religious items and texts from various different religions and cultures and try to make sure that while we have this space where you can use it. To do whatever you want, you can relax, but you also have access to these important things.”

Question: What initiatives have you worked on?

“I’ve been working with Mike Bobeldyk (director of student involvement and event services), to try and figure out what to do with what used to be

Question: What are you planning on doing for UNI students as NISG President?

EDITORIAL STAFF

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CAROLINE CHRISTENSEN News Editor chriscbi@uni.edu

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CATHERINE CROW Campus Life Editor catherine.crow@uni.edu COLIN HORNING Sports Editor chorning@uni.edu SOPHIE HOFFMEIER Copy Editor hoffmeis@uni.edu

Representation: “There are different areas and capacities. For sure representation

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CIRCULATION DORI CLAUSEN

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Environmental consciousness: “One of the things we wanted to do was have a clean campus initiative. So one day instead of having a class the whole campus just gets up and starts cleaning. I think it would be really nice to have our students and faculty. So our students can work together with their professors.”

Accessibility to students: “Open office hours. The office is always open to anyone. I want to make it so that students know that every month, on a certain day, at a certain time. They should know that they can come with anything they want with questions, concerns, and they need a friend. That’s what we want to do.”

Question: Is there anything you want UNI students to know?

“Empower each other.

Entrust each other and respect one another. Keep things to make sure you have a good place to be. A good working environment, a good campus.Make sure that you’re involved and come talk to me.”

The Northern Iowan is published semi-weekly on Monday and Thursday during the academic year, except for holidays and examination periods, by the University of Northern Iowa, L011 Maucker Union, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0166 under the auspices of the Board of Student Publications.

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All material is © 2021 by the Northern Iowan and may not be used without permission.

LGBTQ+

continued from page 1

Julius continued, “There’s so much joy to be had in those identities.”

Julius studied marketing and communication at UNI, and now works in diversity and inclusion. Without any musical theatre experience, most people probably wouldn’t predict her writing a musical, but that’s exactly what makes her story so unique. Having dreamt of writing a musical their whole life, they decided to make that dream a reality in 2018.

“In about a month I taught myself how to play guitar, and then about two months later I had my first draft of the musical. and it just kind of, it was just really weird, it just sort of flowed out of me at that point” said Julius about their initial writing process.

Of course, taking a first draft to the stage is a long process that requires help from musicians, songwriters, and lots of edits. “A lot of the first songs I wrote I just used chords I knew how to play, so it was basically… really simple chords with an occasional E minor.”

Julius acknowledges that she couldn’t have done it without community support.

“I found this amazing group called Ring of Keys, which is this LGBTQ+ group. It’s actually queer women and trans and nonbinary people in musical theatre… once I found my people it took off pretty quick.”

Julius stresses that they aren’t searching for fame in writing this story. “I didn’t start this journey hoping that I could become the next Lin Manuel Miranda, or make some kind of massive legacy out of writing musicals, I wanted to write a story that put queer women specifically in a really positive light and showed queer joy on stage.”

Tickets are currently on sale at https://gbrwmusical. bpt.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters must be less than 300 words in length and are subject to editing. Not all submissions will be printed. Send submissions to maase@uni.edu.

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MARCH 10, 2022 |

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OPINION

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

Gas prices surges in the U.S. DREW HILL

Opinion Columnist

In the current conf lict between U k raine and Russia, the United States has tried to aid Ukraine with supplies and by punishing Russia economically. The U.S. sanctioned several Russian banks, helped organize the withdrawal of certain Russian banks from the SWIFT international banking network and blocked some Russian travel. The most recent area the U.S. has attacked is Russian oil imports, starting on Tuesday.

According to Patricia Cohen and Stanley Reed for the New York Times, Russia receives more than a third of its national budget from oil and gas exports.

The previous sanctions on Russia’s economy had a negative effect on these exports, as did the negative stigma of being associated with Russian companies for many shippers and importers.

Many legislators put pressure on the White House to stop importing oil from Russia in the United States altogether. This comprised both Democrats and Republicans, including Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. The United States had been importing around 700,000 barrels of oil from Russia per day, according to Catie Edmondson and Clifford Krauss of the New York Times. That accounted for about 4%of American consumption. The White House declined to cut off Russian oil at first, claiming the loss of supply would

PEXELS

The pump has got more expensive for many car owners across the United States. There is no timeline currently in when the rise in prices will stop.

spike gas prices here in the U.S., but has now switched course.

However, gas prices were already rising here in the U.S. long before Russia invaded Ukraine. According to the U.S. Energy Information Ad m i n ist rat ion, in December of 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit here in America, average gas prices were about $2.53 per gallon. In 2020, this number was as low as $1.78.

However, from January to December of 2021, prices rose from about $2.25 to $3.34. From 2017 to 2020, average prices never rose

above $3.00. By the end of the first week of March of 2022, when Russia had invaded Ukraine, average prices had climbed to $4.10.

The rise in gas prices is partly due to the demand increase as people began traveling more following the end of many mandates in 2020. The supply was reduced because producers responded to the decreased demand. Now, some oil companies are reluctant to raise production to avoid a price drop caused by too much supply.

However, there are certain policies the Biden adminis-

tration has taken that have not helped reduce inf lation.

Shortly after taking office, Joe Biden revoked the permit for the Keystone XL pipeline, which had been a 10 year project before being dismantled. He has not moved to shut down other large controversial pipelines in the U.S., however. Regulations to decrease emissions have also been increased. Another controversy the Biden administration has faced is decisions about oil drilling on federal lands. While they have not blocked all current drilling on public lands or stopped

granting permits, new leases to drill on public lands were paused in 2021 and once again in January of 2022. While a Louisiana judge has ordered the auction of leases to be resumed, the legal battle still has the issue tied up.

Despite failing to live up to his promises to do much more to limit fossil fuels, Biden has still taken many steps to hurt U.S. oil production. The reason behind this is to reduce our dependance on fossil fuels and move towards more renewable sources of energy. This has hurt our economy now, as it is still reliant on fossil fuels.

While working toward more renewable energy sources is potentially a good goal, trying to rush that process has contributed to rising gas prices.

That leads us back to whether the move to stop Russian oil imports was wise for the United States.

While it seems to be a small percentage of total U.S. consumption, we did still get a significant supply of oil from Russia. So, while it was good for the U.S. to cancel our oil imports from Russia to deal another blow to the Russian war effort in Ukraine, it will be important to find an alternative to help balance that loss.

The Biden administration should work to increase drilling here in the U.S. and reduce some of the new regulations to help lower the current gas prices and replace that loss.

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CAMPUS LIFE

CATHERINE CROW Campus Life Editor

Panther portrait : Midterm de-stress fest MARCH 10, 2022 |

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VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

CATHERINE CROW / NORTHERN IOWAN

On Monday, March 7, the Student Wellness Center hosted a de-stress fest up in the Center for Multicultural Education. Students could take part in a few different activities, ranging from coloring, writing a thank-you note to someone, playing games or meditating. In addition to these activities, students also had an opportunity to learn about the dimensions of wellness.

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the University of Northern Iowa’s independent, student-produced newspaper since 1892 CEDAR FALLS, IA

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2022 Special Feature for Black History Month

VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

Blackleadersinthestateof Iowa

Courtesy of each leader

From left to right: Representative RasTafari I. Smith, Vice President of Black Student Union Christiana Laneisha Downley, UNI Alum and Director of Multicultural at Wartburg Krystal Madlock, Councilwoman for Waterloo Ward 3 Nia Wilder and Mayor of Waterloo Quentin Hart lead in a variety of leadership roles in the state of Iowa.

JERRELL BATES

Guest Columnist

Editor’s Note: This article is from Feb. 24 2022 Black History Month: A time dedicated to the celebration of Black history, culture and excellence. According to National Geographic, the first official celebration of Black history started with Negro History Week in 1926. At this point, Black history was not recognized nationwide, but with the creation of Negro History Week, Black history began its journey towards recognization. In 1976, President Gerald

Ford extended Negro History in order to give proper recognition of the accomplishments of African-Americans, and it officially became the nationally recognized month that we know today, Black History Month.

Today, we see many AfricanAmericans following in the footsteps of the leaders of the past.

“I got involved with Black Student Union (BSU) because it was the first place here on campus that I could meet people who looked like me and were going through the same things I was,” Black Student Union Vice President Christiana Downey said. “Though I have been

Editor’s note: This special issue celebrates Black History month (BHM) and encourages students and faculty to continue the conversation beyond the month of February. The Northern Iowan invited guest columnist to take the lead and write about what they felt passionate about during BHM. This is a all Black insert and everything you see in this issue is lead by our Black students, faculty and writers. The Northern Iowan will continue to strive for diversity, equity and inclusion and as well as continue to promote conversations in all spaces.

involved in leadership positions before college, this one seemed to be so much more important because I was representing a larger, underrepresented population.”

An example of the importance of Black leadership, Downey is one of many people dedicated to service and leadership. UNI alum and Director of Multicultural Student Services at Wartburg College Krystal Madlock was heavily involved during her undergraduate career. “At UNI I was involved in the typical student organizations created for students of color, Black Student Union, Ethnic Student Senate, and I

made a lifetime commitment and became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I was on the Maucker Union student board.”

Many years later, she continues to find ways to be involved and serve her campus and Waterloo community. “My current involvement continues to be in my church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., March Against the Darkness Board of Directors, Youth Art Team Board of Directors, Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa Scholarship committee, a member of Club Les Dames and hopefully soon the UNI Alumni Association Board of

Managers.” Madlock said.

Another UNI Alum and Black leader, Yakira Sanders, has dedicated a lot of her time to leadership and was inspired by another Black leader. “My first interaction with someone at UNI was my Jumpstart pathfinder, Juana Hollingsworth.

It was really cool to have a Black woman who I could look up to.” Sanders has served in many roles on UNI’s campus, including serving as the current Program Assistant for the Center of Multicultural Education.

BELINDA CREIGHTON-SMITH

until our throats were raw and held our communal breath as the Capitol of our government was invaded by domestic terrorists. Our “essential” family members worked in the face of infection, removing the entrails of hogs, keeping a “friendly smile in every aisle,” and nursing those needing care in health facilities. Struggle is not a stranger to me or my community.

Our lived experiences and

the lives of our ancestors, bear witness of the struggle.

As I ref lect the civil rights gain made in education, I remember my primary school experience in which my adored white teacher reminded me that black little ones such as I dared not dream of being a lawyer, rather a secretary with keen typing skills.

See LEADERS, page 6

Black History Month Guest Columnist

My musings this Black History Month: Truly these past two years have been an arduous struggle navigating life on the rough terrain of COVID-19. We have lost loved ones, memorialized, and buried a multitude in novice and estranged ways.

We have fallen on our faces crying “Black Lives Matter,”

See HISTORY, page 6

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BLACK NEWS MARCH 10, 2022 |

LEADERS

continued from page 5

When speaking further on her journey, and providing advice to students growing in their own leadership journeys, Sanders said, “Trust the process. Things will constantly change from a year, two years, three years, four years down the line. So just trust the process and make sure that you are holding yourself accountable to make sure that you are accomplishing those goals that you set for yourself.”

Apart from the Black excellence that has graced UNI’s campus in the past and present, there are a number of influential Black leaders in the surrounding Waterloo community. “Growing up, I thought leadership was just about being one with the ‘big idea.’ It wasn’t until I was a senior in high school that I understood I was a leader by engaging in what was happening in my school and community through volunteering and showing my support. The more I served, as a student senate representative and on the judicial committee, the more my self-confidence grew as I saw the impact of my participation.” Mayor of Waterloo Quentin Hart said.

When asked if he ever envisioned himself as mayor,

HISTORY

continued from page 5

Standing in the corridors of uncharted waters, we pioneered our way as the first to desegregate Waterloo’s allwhite schools. We withstood the assembly where students sneered and threw spitballs at us. We could only imagine what Ruby Bridges felt as she was led by officers into her new classroom in William Frantz Elementary in New Orleans.

Motivated by the peaceful protests of the resistance, we launched our collective protests walking the two and a half miles to our neighborhood where we felt loved and safe.

We were the pioneers, and I wonder the cost as I reflect on the ways in which teachers chose not to teach us even though we (I) were seated right in front of him. Or the quiet anticipation of storytime, as we sat quietly and invisibly in class while our sweet English teacher read the infamous refrain “…

Little Brown Koko and his big fat good ole black mammy!”

Amidst the roaring laughter and pointing fingers of the white students, we vowed to never return to such pain. Much like the Little Rock Nine, our parents, pastors, leaders and other activists joined us as we took our protest to the Waterloo School Administration Building

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Hart said, “I did not grow up dreaming about being the Mayor of Waterloo.

With each act of service, my circle of influence grew and my network of resources grew as well, leading me to greater and greater opportunities.”

Sharing similar sentiments with Mayor Hart is Nia Wilder, businesswoman and Councilwoman for Waterloo’s Ward 3. “We don’t always realize when leadership starts. We don’t always realize when we are being a leader. Leadership doesn’t have certain characteristics” Wilder said.

To her, leadership is important and a journey that we continue to grow in. “Don’t ever stop growing. Don’t ever feel like you know what the answer is. Keep seeking answers.

Know that your purpose is something serious.”

Recently, the UNI campus community has had the honor of welcoming Rastafari Smith back to campus. Smith is not just a UNI alum; he also serves as the Student Services Coordinator at UNI and as a legislator in the Iowa House of Representatives.

For him, civic engagement was a part of his upbringing but he never expected to land in the position he is in now. “If you would’ve asked me seven years ago

if I would be here today, I would’ve laughed at you,” Smith said. “I was never someone who would consider me to be politically engaged. I was all about social advocacy. I would protest, be at marches and speak out against things but I never saw myself running for office.” Smith was presented with the opportunity to run for the House of Representatives and hasn’t looked back. To the young adults growing in life, Smith says, “Be authentically who you are, because that’s when your success comes.

As people of color, we bring our creativity, our uniqueness and our lived experiences to help the overarching system improve so don’t feel like you have to change.”

With the conclusion of February 2022, we have had another successful month of celebrating the accomplishments and the excellence of Black history. Our Black colleagues have continued to do great things and serve as inspirational leaders like our ancestors before us. Even though Black History Month has concluded, may we still continue to shine bright and highlight the achievements of our African-American colleagues, friends and leaders.

and demanded the removal of the “beloved teacher, the only discipline commensurate with the racial trauma she only caused her little brown students.

We shall not, we shall not be moved! We stayed well into the night when ultimately our fathers, faith leaders, and others were led handcuffed into the night As the women and children were permitted to leave the building, we were met by an angry mob shaking clenched fists and unleashing hateful jeers while threatening to release their ferocious dogs upon us.

We were huddled under our moms’ and caretakers’ arms and rushed to our vehicles, where officers provided a safe path for our departure. I wept fearing for my dad and questioning the value of all the “good trouble” we had caused.

We struggled yesterday on the picket lines of “Logan Plaza, and the lunch counters of S.S. Kresge’s. Our struggle is reminiscent of the four black students who refused to give up their seats at the lunch counter in Woolworth in Greensboro, NC. We fought against the dragon on the streets of East Fourth and lamented the suspicious death of our fallen comrade said to have hung himself in the “county jail.” We stood in solidarity with the UNI Seven+ who refused to be moved until they had a place of refuge on campus where they could

find solace amidst the egregious assaults to their psyches daily.

And the struggle continues.

We cannot give up until every life is valued in our country.

We cannot cease because we have been lifted upon the backs of mothers who gave birth and nursed life under the lash of bondage that could not break her back or spirit! We stand on the shoulders of those who refused to fear the shadow cast by death and suffered it to give our voices a vote, and the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness owed us.

Our collective struggle today is real! It is just as valid as it was 402 years ago! Today, we forge ahead and proclaim, “Black Lives Matter!” The pointed fact voiced by Civil Rights mother Fannie Lou Hamer remains, “nobody’s free until everybody’s free.” We demand equitable footing for all of humanity at a time when wrong is said to be right, and the truth is called lies! We undertake the rights due us though denied for a time by a race contract. We raise our hands and forge ahead in every sphere of influence we occupy - with our hearts tied together. Collectively, we stand in the pushing against the press. For when black lives matter, all lives will matter (#BlackLivesMatter)!

VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

Black perspective in education ALEXANDRIA POWELL

Guest Columnist

One thing that is always going to be relevant in our society is education. The more we advance, the more we need to make sure that education is inclusive for all students. While there is progress being made, there are things being done that are making education take a step back.

The goal of an educator is to connect with your students, as well as prepare them for what they are going to encounter in the real world.

“Unfortunately, students can experience lowered academic and behavior expectations, and they can feel disconnected from their teachers which will increase anxiety in the classroom. When our brains are anxious, we are not able to learn at our best,” UNI Human Relations professor Caroline Elser stated.

In April 2021, Iowa Senate Republicans approved putting limits on diversity training for teachers. The goal of this is to stay away from teaching students about more controversial topics. For example, the 1619 Project which was founded in Waterloo, Iowa, is a collection of stories, songs and pictures from the viewpoint of slaves.

These resources provide a more rich, full–learning perspective for students, as a lot of events in history are viewed from the white perspective. The result of the limitations that were passed are aimed towards attacking resources such as the 1619 Project. When there are acts like this being done, important information is being taken away from students.

By having resources in the classroom that promote one’s culture, or what they identify with, students are more likely to be engaged and connected with the content. In this day and age, it’s time that every child is able to see themselves in the classroom, and teachers need to be prepared to help them see that.

Diversity training is also needed so educators aren’t inflicting racial biases or implicit biases in the classroom, whether it be intentional or unintentional.

Implicit bias is the pre-reflective attribution of particular qualities by an individual to a member of a social group.

This connects to education – when educators don’t recognize their biases, it can lead to use of microaggressions and stereotypes in the classroom. When asked about how this can affect students, the goal of an educator is to connect with the students, as well as prepare them for what they are going to encounter in the real world.

TONI FORTMANN/Northern Iowan

March 9, 2022 was the 52nd anniversary of the UNI Seven event.

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BLACK VOICES MARCH 10, 2022 |

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White passing: A blessing and a curse CALEB BROTHERS

Guest Columnist

Being white passing isn’t a gift. It isn’t some kind of “special achievement” where I can just choose sides. I get caught in the divide between being white and Black. Being white passing is a blessing and a curse. Since I can remember, I have been asked the question, “Are you sure you’re Black?”

Growing up, my father beat me black and blue.

Growing up, my father abused my mom. Being Black wasn’t something I praised because my dad stripped that pride from me. I always thought being mixed was something special, but the way my father treated me gave me a dark outlook on the other half of myself.

I was raised by my proud and brave mother who never let my dad lay another finger on me. She did her best to show me some sort of “Black culture.” But when growing up being one of the only Black or mixed people in your family, it can be hard. Without the guidance of my father, I was forced to look to my friends for some sense of who I was. But I found none. I was outcasted for looking “too white” or not acting “Black enough.” I was told I was lying about my race. I was told if I ever so murmured the n-word, I would be killed. This was my life, and I felt nothing would change.

In reality, things did change. But it was gradual.

I had to learn to stick up for myself. I had to learn that I was not defined by my skin tone. I had to block out people who didn’t choose to believe I wasn’t any more than just “5% Black”.

I especially felt more welcomed my senior year.

More importantly, my football coaches helped guide me. They were all close with my mom and wanted to raise me right because my father hid in the shadows, a coward. I can still remember cooking my first hot links on the grill, hosting my first cookout and blaring Tupac, Biggie Smalls, Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole in my room.

My coaches introduced me to the movie Friday, Black barber shops and delicious BBQ. My friends senior year started accepting me for who I was too. I finally felt I found my place in this world.

I then applied to the University of Northern Iowa. This has been one of the best decisions of my life. I was asked to be a part of Jumpstart.

According to the Universities website, “Jump Start is an extended orientation program designed to facilitate the successful transition of students. This ranges from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds as well as students who have participated in Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) and the Panther

Caleb Brothers is a first year student at UNI studying Interactive Digtal Studies.

Access, Connection, and Engagment (PACE) programs (such as Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search).”

I was able to move in early on campus and built strong bonds with my peers. This was eye-opening because, at college, no one is the same. Everyone has different experiences, backgrounds and opinions, and it was amazing to be able to connect with people I feel have, and always will accept me for being me.

Growing up, I hated everyone. I hated myself.

I wish I would have positively used that hatred. I didn’t. I see the damage

hatred can do to a person.

I forgive my father for the things he’s done. I forgive anyone who has ever called me names or made fun of me because I wasn’t their form of “Black.” . I forgive anyone who has discriminated against me. I do this because we need to learn to forgive. If we all continue to hide and never face our problems, we will never see adversity.

I will start since no one else will. Being Black is more than just a skin tone or the amount of melanin in your skin. Being Black is powerful and being Black is beautiful. I wish I would have realized it

ANNA STEVENS/Northern Iowan

sooner because being who I am is so special. Being a minority is something not everyone gets to say.

Embrace it. Be who you are and never let anyone take that away from you.

Being Black is something I will never take for granted again. It can be hard facing injustice and discrimnation but I see how these two terrible things have brought us closer together. I have been faced with climbing a “white wall” and today I have made it over. Today, I have found myself as a Black man.

Being a Black resident assistant DIAMOND ROUNDTREE Staff Writer

Courtesy

Diamond Roundtree is a second year student studying Digital Media Production.

Excited, thrilled and nervous is an understatement to how I felt when I opened my acceptance letter to be a resident assistant (RA) for the University of Northern Iowa. Though I will not be returning to the RA role next semester, I still had an experience and process worth sharing.

On Feb. 5, 2021, at 11:15 a.m., I received my acceptance letter to be a resident assistant for the University of Northern Iowa. When I first saw the words “Congratulations,” I was seated at a table in the middle of Maucker Union.

I was so excited to start this new journey in my college life. But even in the

moment of my excitement, I couldn’t help but realize that I might be the only one who looked like me in my job, and that would be a challenge. Nevertheless, there was a need for Black RAs on campus, and I was determined to fill it.

In this job, we as RA have to check on our residents and are required to schedule meetings to talk about how their semester is going. When it was my turn to speak with my RA, I told her exactly what I felt. I felt alone, and I was the only one who looked like me in my hall. I felt alone and genuinely scared. The summer before I started classes, I was in a Jumpstart program.

I was around many amazing people who looked like me, and then on the first day

of classes, our worlds did not collide. I felt like an imposter.

Although my RA couldn’t relate to me or empathize with me, she listened to me and showed me that she cared. She went out of her way to invite me to hall dinners hall events. She walked down to my room to have conversations with me.

We created a relationship that is still inseparable to this day. When we became more comfortable with each other, she encouraged me to be the voice I didn’t have.

Representation has always been vital for me, and I knew it would be difficult, but in my head, I thought, if not me, then who?

See RA, page 10

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BLACK HAIRSTYLES

Don’t touch my crown MARCH 10, 2022 |

NKASA BOLUMBU Staff Writer

In 2019, California became the first state to pass the CROWN Act bill. This bill prohibits race-based discrimination against natural hair and was passed on July 3, 2019. The CROWN Act— Creating a Respectful and Open Workspace for Natural Hair—was created in 2019 by the company Dove and the CROWN coalition with Californian Senator Holly J. Mitchell. The CROWN act “ensures protection against discrimination.” As of 2022, there are 14 states that have adopted the same or similar bills on anti-discrimination concerning Black people’s hair. However, there are 26 states that have denied the bill, including Iowa.

Why is such a bill needed in US legislation anyway?

The Declaration of Independence states that “all men are created equal.” The CROWN act states, “people should not be forced to diminish their racial-cultural identity by changing their natural hair to adapt to predominantly white spaces, workplace or otherwise.” The bill holds companies accountable for their policies and protects Black women, especially so they can work without the stress or worry of changing their hair in fear of their company policies.

The CROWN Act believes that America has a problem with Black hair: kinky coils, frizz, afro, braids and locs.

People around the world have a plethora of different hairstyles. Hair is a big part of the cultural identity, and that includes a lot of time, money and effort that goes into maintaining our natural hair. For many years, Black hair has been labeled as “nappy,” “bad,” “too radical,” and unwanted in eurocentric countries.

Past media has portrayed an image of “good” Black hair as being anything but the hair we were born with.

Today, more Black women are wearing their natural hair to their workplaces and are more likely to be policed by their jobs about it. Dove conducted a research study about the impact of hair discrimination on Black women vs. non-Black women (mostly white women) in 2019 and 2021. About 83% of Black women are more harshly

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judged based on their looks and are perceived as less job-ready depending on the type of hair they have and 80% of Black women are also more likely to change their hair in order to fit in.

Job readiness is defined as the skills and characteristics that employers seek; the more job-ready you are, the better.

For context, a Black mannequin modeled common hairstyles worn by Black women. The most job-ready hairstyle was a short pixie cut, at 13% less job-ready, like Kris Jenner’s hair. Locs were the least job-ready, at 31% less jobready, like Zendaya’s 2015 Oscars hairstyle. The fashion police reporter, Guiliana Rancic, said Zendaya’s hair smelled like patchouli oil or weed. When she was called out by Zendaya, she said it had nothing to do with race.

Even celebrities are not safe from hair discrimination.

The study also found that about 53% of Black mothers reported that their daughters had experienced hair discrimination as young as five years of age. Black students are more likely to receive disciplinary action for policy-related issues than other races of students. Many students have been sent home because their hair wasn’t “neat.” Iryonna Reed and Ola Johnson, UNI students, also had some things to say about how American society treats Black hair. “People give you different amounts of attention depending on how your hair looks,” Reed said. Johnson remembered an earlier incident with a classmate who had made her uncomfortable by touching her hair without her consent. “I felt very uncomfortable and it made me aware of how I’m different from my peers,” Johnson said.

There are some schools that have banned afro puffs, a popular style for Black girls. In 2018, Andrew Johnson, then a high school wrestler, had to cut off his dreadlocks because the referee said they were not safe.

It was either cut or forfeit.

The interesting thing about this situation is that he had wrestled just fine before. It wasn’t until he was given an ultimatum by a white referee that has been alleged to have used racial slurs two years prior that his hair was a problem.

See CROWN, page 10

ANNA STEVENS/Northern Iowan

Dove’s mission statement is to “encourage all women and girls to have positive relationships with beauty and helping to raising thier self esteem.”

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Black History Month: Recap of events ANNA STEVENS Staff Writer

Black Student Union (BSU) packed a punch with their events this Black History Month. Many events were learning moments, and all were filled with fun. Bonding moments were held, and experiences were shared during this month of remembrance and empowerment.

On Wednesday, Feb. 9, BSU held their Poetry Slam.

Students had the opportunity to share their experiences through spoken word. “Black people have been very creative in the way they express their emotions,” BSU’s president, Laito Zarkpah, shared to preface the start of the show.

Students performed as many pieces as they wanted, though only their first piece was graded by the judges.

First, second and third place were given respectively to Asascia Manderson, Nkasa Bolumbu, and Vincent Ali. Other performers included Dimaucia Phanfil, Natasha Jean and Laito Zarkpah. These artists spoke about their personal experiences as a person of the Black community.

Some touching on the hardships, others embracing the beautiful highlights.

On Sunday, Feb. 13, BSU members attended service at Gift of Life Church, followed by a buffet-style Soul Food Dinner, consisting of mac ‘n cheese, greens, cornbread, fried chicken, corn and ham.

Members of the church prepared and served the meal to all, with the focal point being on the BSU UNI students.

Loved by all, the savory foods were followed up by a variety of cakes. Not only were they fed, the BSU members learned about Black history, heard a moving poem, and a powerful message delivered by one of the church pastors. Many members mentioned how moving the sermon was, and how the entire service was exciting.

Valentine’s Day was celebrated on Monday, Feb. 14, as BSU members gave out pre-ordered candy grams in Maucker Union. Those who ordered received a goody bag of candy, a small bear and a note from the sender to be given to a friend or loved one.

BSU kept the events rolling with their annual Skate Party on Saturday, Feb. 19, where students and faculty had the opportunity to show off their skating skills. The theme was the 1970s, and the event and skates were free for all who participated. Gift card prizes were given to the best dressed and the fastest skater, making for a successful celebration.

Black Student Union hosted one more event that was open to the public Monday, Feb. 28. The Tunnel of Oppression was held in Lang Hall from 6-8 p.m. People of all backgrounds and races were welcome to walk through five classrooms each representing an oppression that the Black community has faced, and continues to face, while educating attendees on the history of those aspects of Black culture. The rooms consisted of the Amani Community Services, soul food, hairstyles, fashion trends and privilege. A debriefing room was available at the end for conversation and clarification.

The closing ceremony was hosted by BSU in the ballrooms on Saturday, March 6. Toast for Change was a banquet to thank those who participated and contributed to the Black History Month events, and to award members for their outstanding performances. Jerrell Bates, a senior, received the Young, Gifted and Black Award for his help with Black History Month. “ I t was an honor to receive it as I have always loved being a member of BSU,” said Bates.

“I love seeing them continue to do great things for the African-American community on campus.”

ANNA STEVENS/Northern Iowan

As Black History Month came to an end, Black Student Union (BSU) made their presence known with the variety of events in February. BSU ended it with a “Toast for Change,” celebrating their involvement and continuing to celebrate Black excellence all year round.

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BLACK KNOWLEDGE MARCH 10, 2022 |

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Cultural competency should be required MELISSA HOFFMAN

Opinion Columnist

As our world today gets more and more diverse, there is a major need for more culturally specific programs.

According to the Iowa Attorney General’s reports, in the state of Iowa, we have eight culturally specific programs. Although the US Census Bureau reports that white people make up about 90.02% of Iowa’s population, there is still a growing number of minority groups that are not effectively being helped by mainstream organizations across Iowa. Many mainstream organizations make promises to serve communities of color, but many are not held accountable for not keeping these promises.

Eight programs are not enough for the growing minority groups in Iowa. Many culturally specific organizations have developed due to the failure of various mainstream organizations to properly serve communities of color. The National Center for Cultural Competence created the Guide to Planning and Implementing Cultural Competence: Organizational Self-Assessment. where they discuss that culturally specific programs work to value diversity, address the issues that emerge when different cultures interact, acquire cultural knowledge and adapt to the cultures of multiple individuals and the communities they

RA

continued from page 7

I haven’t been alone in this RA journey. One of my colleagues is a person of color, so naturally, I gravitated towards him more than anyone. On the first day of RA training, I sunk into a hole of doubt. I started to wonder if I could be the person I came here to be. I didn’t know If I could use my voice the way I wanted to. I felt constricted by the physical appearance of others and my mind overthinking. It was frustrating being one of the only ones who looked like me. I felt like the topics of race and how to deal with people who don’t look like you were not covered enough, and quite frankly, I don’t think they ever will, mainly because of recent laws passed in Iowa.

I had the realization that no matter what, I will always be a part of the minority population here at the University of Northern Iowa. Being the only Black woman in certain rooms, I used my voice to talk about specific issues and topics. I spoke with people about why we say Black Lives Matter and why there is a constant theme of police brutality in the U.S. It was very tiring

PEXELS

Cultural competency training can bring more awareness of serious issues happening to historically marganlized communities.

serve.

Culturally specific programs are designed to meet the needs of multiple minority communities that are underheard and underserved. There is a need for these programs because many minority groups have grown up or are growing up with clear understandings and experiences of injustice inequality and discrimination that results in feelings of mistrust in the systems that were supposed to be created to protect them. Culturally specific services uplift the voices and experiences of those who because of oppression have been unheard for far too long.

In the United States, there are many factors that act as barriers for minority groups wanting to disclose abuse and access services. Some of these include heavy loyalty to cul-

ture, race, ethnicity, lack of trust for the criminal justice systems, law enforcement and social services. Some others are lack of service providers that share common experiences and look like them, shortage of culturally competent services, mistrust based on racism and classism, fears of their experiences reflecting stereotypes, legal status in the United States and so much more.

Research has shown that people of color benefit better from culturally specific staff and services that are caring and sensitive, especially regarding racial and cultural differences. In a study developed by Tameka Gillum on improving services to African American survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, she found that overall, women described their experiences with mainstream services as

talking about such topics, but I knew that If I didn’t bring it up, the voices of our residents would never be heard.

Being the only Black person on my staff has had its good times. I like to say that my other co-worker of color and I brings flavor to the group. I give an entirely different perspective, and I am willing to share my culture and experiences with my staff.

Whether it’s sharing how diverse Black women can be with their hair, or breaking down other concepts and answering questions, like if Black people can get sunburn.

I have tried to relate and build relationships not by race but by experience. At the same time, I make sure to express my Blackness all the way. I am not ashamed of who I am. I believe that my Black is beautiful and I want to show them that. Most of my co-workers come from small towns or places that aren’t diverse. I have tried to break down stereotypes and share my culture and a part of who I am with them.

Connecting with my residents has been the most important thing to me in this job. I wanted to give residents of color something I

never had: someone who looks like them. My floor is one of the most diverse floors in Dancer Hall. I have built relationships with other residents from different floors and different buildings around campus.

It has warmed my heart to see those residents comfortable in a space because they have someone they can go and trust.

I have found that my influence goes beyond students of color and my hall. I’ve connected with everyone. I am Black woman who faces the unknowns of life.

I know what it means to struggle, and I know what it means to overcome.

Being an RA of color at the university of northern Iowa has had its ups and downs. There are times when I feel alone in this job, and there are times when I feel appreciated. I’ve loved my experience with my residents and with my co-workers. I intend to use my leadership skills and experiences as an RA and enhance them in other campus programs, such as Panther Promise Academy. I have enjoyed this experience. It is my hope that people read this and realize just how important our voices are on campus. We need more RAs of color.

problematic. She also found that these women reported having more positive experiences with culturally specific services that were provided.

There are two key focuses that these programs must pay close attention to. These are the way these direct services are being provided and the different development training that is being offered to staff that are providing services. These programs must be culturally-focused and it is critical that values, behaviors, expectations, norms and worldview of the cultural community is present at every level of the service delivery. Programs and services can be more effective when they • Are culturally specific, especially in the language of the target community

CROWN

continued from page 8

Microaggressions are a type of passive-aggressive racism that makes one do a double-take since it’s not direct. Though a sly comment may seem racist to one person, the intended target knows the intentions behind the hair-touching and back-handed compliments.

Echo Bearden, a member of the community, has had her fair share of hair hate. She was raised in a mostly white town.

In Bearden’s freshman year of high school, she wore box braids for the first time. “I can remember loving my braids, but there were kids that would say racial slurs to me,” Bearden said. “I was sitting with a friend from Africa. I was wearing my natural hair. There was a group of kids who came up to us and called us rats and made rodent noises as they passed by.”

I have also had my own experiences with unwanted hair touching. I was in middle school when a white high schooler approached me from behind and grabbed my hair.

I felt so uncomfortable and embarrassed. When I turned

• Collaborate and incorporate the community in the planning and implementation of services • Put a strong focus on the personal resources of participants and their specific needs • Recognize the various social and cultural factors that can influence behaviors • Provide specific support to change norms • Aim to provide skill-building opportunities for staff and the community and • Utilize different pathways to connect and empower the community Amani Community Services Culturally specific domestic violence and sexual assault agency for African Americans in Iowa. They began with three African American women who saw a major need for culturally specific services in the Cedar Valley area. After opening in Waterloo, they began creating offices to serve clients across the state. Offices are located in Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Des Moines, and Dubuque. They offer personal, legal, housing advocacy, individual and group counseling, prevention services, children and teen programming and information and referrals. All services are free and confidential.

See CULTURAL, page 12

around, he just walked away with a little laugh, complimenting my hair but without an apology for groping my head.

I’ve had more than one incident with a coworker who kept asking to touch my hair. No matter how well-meaning, I was uncomfortable with having my hair touched.

I had told her no many times but gave up since she would not stop asking. It’s quite unfortunate that our society holds no regard for personal space when it concerns a black person’s hair. You can appreciate our unique hairstyles and still be respectful. Just don’t touch the hair.

ANNA STEVENS/Northern Iowan

Dacia Carter is a faculty member.

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The continuation of sports protest

PEXELS

Sports protest has been evolving and continues to call out the systemic racism and discrimination against the Black community. Today, community members and people from all different types of occupations continue to push forward for change systemically.

EBONI SPRINGFIELD Staff Writer

The Black athlete has been overlooked and underappreciated since the integration of Black players into professional sports in the mid-1900s. Black talent has brought competition, performance, and the complexity of sports to a higher level.

Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball, winning rookie of the year in 1947 and a six-time All-Star.

After setting many track and field records, Jesse Owens went on to win four Gold Medals for the United States in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Jerry Rice has the NFL’s “most unbeatable record in league history,” with 22,895 career receiving yards. Michael Jordan dominated the basketball court and the sneaker industry, later becoming the only African-American majority owner in major professional sports. After winning Gold in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Muhammed Ali defined the power of protest from Black athletes in the fight for social justice.

Although these talents have brought many joyous moments to American athletics and its fans, the social injustice and inequality that Black communities have endured have created a long history of protest.

Black athletes can use their platforms to develop powerful historical moments that bring awareness to social injustices.

Moments of protest span over a century ago to the

present day, each paving the way for the next. The first Black man to play pro baseball was Moses Fleetwood in 1883.

The Black catcher was a part of the Toledo Blue Stockings before White Sox Owner Cap Anson demanded Fleetwood not play against his players. Calling his bluff, Fleetwood started in the right field. According to journalist Steve Wulf, Anson’s reaction to the team’s decisions follows.

“We’ll play this game here, but won’t play never no more with the—–.”

In 1887, years later, with the attempts for Anson, Black players were barred from playing professional baseball. This rule lasted almost a decade before the Brooklyn Dodgers integrated Robinson into pro baseball. Although this significant moment in history may not be seen as a protest, the decision to integrate highlighted racial inequality in the United States.

Robinson’s bravery and

courage went on to open.

From then on, the significance of these protests was highly influential to the lives of the Black community and often distorted by the white community.

In an interview with Dr. Christian Ogbondah, a tenured journalism professor at the University of Northern Iowa discussed his interactions with athletes and their forms of protest. Ogbondah highlighted his interest in Ali and documented the boxing champion through his journey before meeting him face to face in Chicago’s airport in April of 1986.

“When Ali won the medal in 1960, the gold medal, upon returning to America, the United States did not treat him well; they left the Black athletes to be on their own... and then they brought air-conditioned vans that took white athletes, and that hung on Ali a lot, the injustice… he threw his gold medal into the Ohio River in protest,” Ogbondah said.

Ali revealed in his 1975

documentary that he had protested the enormous amount of racial injustice he’d experienced and, in turn, threw his gold medal.

More than 50 years later, in 2014, Ali’s medal was found in “The annual Ohio River Sweep” and rightfully returned to his family for $200,000.

In another historical moment of recollection, Ogbonda highlighted the protest by Lee Evans in the 1968 Mexico Olympics.

Evan’s teammates, Tommie Smith and John Carlos were sent home after raising their fists in a Black Power Salute at the same event. After running the 400-meter dash in just 43.86 seconds, winning gold and setting an “untouchablerecord” until 1988, Evan wore a black beret, signifying the black panther party, and threw his fist into the air after collecting his gold medal.

Ogbondah had the opportunity to personally interview Evans as he returned

ASHLYN RUIZ/Northern Iowan

On Oct. 21, 2021, UNI Athletes, students and community members gathered for the second annual UNIty walk.

to Nigeria to coach runners.

After asking why Evans had decided to return to Africa, he explained, “This [Evan’s win] was a lot of honor, brought to the United States, by a United States citizen, but simply because he protested the social and economic injustice… the maltreatment of African Americans… and the oppression of their rights in America… they stripped him of his medal… and wiped off all other records that he ever had, and that is why he left the United States and came to Africa,” he said.

Although the racism is not as blatantly obvious, there is still work to be done. Present-day protests from athletes like Colin Kaepernick drew attention to racial injustices by kneeling during the national anthem in 2016. In 2020 the Los Angeles Rams decided not to play a scrimmage amongst the Black Lives Matter protests to avoid the focus of football and illuminate social justice and police brutality.

We have seen many teams use symbolic wording and warm-ups to stand for the lives lost stemming from racial inequality. T-Shirts and hoodies read “I Can’t Breathe,” “Justice for Tamir Rice,” “Change starts with us, Justice & Accountability,” and Northern Iowa’s very own men’s basketball team warm-ups featuring “Eracism.”

See PROTEST, page 12

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TONI FORTMANN/Northern Iowan

CULTURAL

continued from page 10

LUNA - Latinas Unidas Por un Nuevo Amanecer Culturally specific domestic violence and sexual assault services. Established in 1999 by a group of survivors who noticed the lack of services and resources available to the Latinx community in Iowa. They provide services to help survivors build a future free of violence.

Monsoon: Asian & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity This program was established in 2003. It was developed by their Executive Director Mira Yusef when she discovered that many mainstream organizations and programs were not adequately equipped to respond to the cultural needs of the Asian and Pacific Islander community. They offer direct services, community outreach, community education, violence prevention and technical assistance.

R.I.S.E Meskwaki Victim Services

This culturally specific program provides comprehensive advocacy services for native women, children, and their families who are survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault.

Thrive Together Culturally specific domestic violence and sexual assault services for deaf and hard of hearing communities. They were established in 1999 and offer support, information, and peer counseling services.

Above are some great examples that Iowa does have of culturally specific programs that are making a difference in their communities. Although Iowa has a good amount of programs that are culturally specific and work to integrate ethnic cultures into their activities, language and materials there is still a need for more programming.

These programs are able to develop safe spaces that engage the communities they serve in purposeful ways by not only acknowledging, but incorporating culturally specific attitudes, values, beliefs, family relationships and more.

PROTEST

continued from page 11

In March 2021, Axios Today, a sports and industry news outlet, talked with Black ABC/ESPN analyst and former NBA basketball player Jalen Rose. Their conversation about systematic racism in sports led to immense diversity among players, despite the consistently white leadership and ownership.

“It doesn’t start with coaching. It starts with ownership… You [Axios] talked about the four [Black] coaches in the NBA. There aren’t four Black owners in both [the NBA and the NFL] combined,” he said.

The Northern Iowan spoke with Antwon Kimmons, UNIty Walk participant and third-year guard for UNI men’s basketball. Kimmons talks about his experiences as a Black athlete at a predominately white institution and the significant impact Black coaches have on athletes.

“Growing up, I was coached by all–Black coaches until I got to high school

and college. Both head coaches were white men. As I grew in the profession, it switched. When I was younger, I had the choice to play for Black coaches, I can’t do that anymore. At UNI, I get coached by a Black coach; he’s not the head coach, but it’s still cool to have somebody that knows my struggles,” he said.

It leads us to how we can ensure the equality, respect, and success of Black athletes. Northern Iowa athletics has taken a step in the right direction to hold an annual UNIty Walk in solidarity with racial injustice and support diversity and inclusion efforts. The main message here, “Together We Rise,” was meant to ensure Black student-athletes were supported in the personal fight against racial injustice.

“We do these things [UNIty Walk, Warm-Ups, Informational Videos], but then we don’t really talk about it, we go back to our regular lives, and the same stuff happens. In a lot of these circumstances, we are just doing it to get it over

with and do it to say we did it, and a week from then, everybody forgets about it,” he said.

The issues these athletes face go much deeper than sports. It is much bigger than any team or organization. It is about a community of people fighting for equality in every life aspect. They are black men, women, children, parents, friends and scholars.

“When I go out on the court, in a predominantly white state, predominantly white school, with predominantly white fans, people are cheering for me because I am a basketball player, not because I’m Antwon Kimmons, or because of who I am as a person.

As soon as those lights turn off and I take off my jersey, those are the same people that don’t speak to me when I’m walking on campus. When they see me on the street, they get nervous, or even the people that do recognize me as the basketball player; if I didn’t play basketball, how would they view me,” he said.

CATHERINE CROW

PAGE 13

CAMPUS LIFE

Campus Life Editor

MARCH 7, 2022 |

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Student Wellness holds wellness bingo ABIGAIL SAATHOFF

Staff Writer

“Bingo!” a voice yells from across the union.

The voice excitedly walks down the stairs and selects their prize from a plethora of options.

This happened over 15 times during Student Wellness Services’ Wellness Bingo this Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Maucker Union CoffeeHouse. This event takes place once a semester and is a fun way for students to test their skills and learn about each of the dimensions of wellness; emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual.

For this version of bingo, the board isn’t filled with numbers, but words that relate to the eight dimensions of wellness that students will hear the definition of and fill in themselves. Krista Zimmer, a Student Wellness Ambassador

for Student Wellness Services, spoke to the importance of this event for students; “This event allows a direct approach to sharing information with students. As we utilize speakers, all students can hear us whether they are sitting down doing homework or are walking to their next class. Students learn about the Eight Dimensions of Wellness and on-campus resources to improve their overall wellness and knowledge.”

Throughout the duration of the event, more and more students joined in the fun, and despite the event taking place in the middle of the day, students got excited, and nearly every participant was able to claim a prize varying from a gift card Pepper Boutique, certificates for a free sandwich, and Buffalo Wild Wings wings sauces. After each of the small prizes were won, the participants were tasked with filling up their card completely: a blackout. The winner

of this section received the grand prize, a gift basket from Caribou Coffee filled with a tumbler, complimentary drinks, and a bag of coffee.

Abby Wells, the participant who won the grand prize

enjoyed the event; “The wellness bingo event was so fun!

It was informative, there were lots of bingo winners and really great prizes!”

This is only one of many events Student Wellness

ABIGAIL SAATHOFF / NORTHERN IOWAN

Student Wellness Services hosted a bingo game in Maucker Union Wednesday, March 9. Students had a chance to win a variety of prizes.

Trip advisor:true or false?

JETTA COLSCH Staff Writer

As a Cedar Falls area native, I’ve never really had to Google things to do around here. However, seeing all the people coming in and out of Cedar Falls because of UNI and different events held here got me thinking about how people see this town from the outside.

So I searched: TripAdvisor Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Then popped up a suggested article titled “THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cedar Falls - 2022.” So I clicked on it.

This article, though, I found pretty useless. A lot of the attractions on the list were very pointed at a specific season and even included a few restaurants as “things to do.”

Maybe it’s just me, but that doesn’t really sound right.

There were, however, a few honorable mentions on the list Number four of their 15 was the UNI-Dome, and I have to give a big “go cats!” to that one. The Dome is a fantastic place to see a huge variety of things throughout the year. Not only does it host sporting events or marching band competitions, but it also welcomes different groups

and organizations throughout the year as well, such as the recent RV and boat show.

The Dome is also one of only nine indoor college football stadiums in the U.S., according to bleacherreport. com. This means that we’re lucky enough to not have to wear sunscreen, raincoats or winter jackets on Saturday afternoons in autumn to watch our Panthers play football.

This is also helpful because it allows an even wider variety of events to take place there, despite the weather on any given day.

The number two on the list also deserves its ranking.

Boasting 39 shops and 33 restaurants and bars (according to the Cedar Falls Community Main Street website), Main Street Cedar Falls is a great mix of local boutiques, candy shops, specialty stores, restaurants and even a movie theater.

I think my favorite stop on Main Street is Cup of Joe, a cute little coffee shop right at the end of the winding path of storefronts. And this isn’t just any old Starbucks – Cup of Joe has unique, delicious coffee drinks and an adorable 50s atmosphere. Not only this, but they also host live music and game nights for their loyal and brand new customers.

No matter what you’re

Services has held throughout this year, and on March 7, they held Mid-Term De-Stress Fest, an event to help students destress before their midterms.

They also have more events planned for later this semester.

looking for, Main Street Cedar Falls probably has something for you. It’s a nice, upscale street lined with dozens of store windows filled with things pretty much anyone could enjoy. The adorable little shops will draw you in, the smell of gourmet crepes from Tata Yaya will make your mouth water and you won’t be able to resist stopping in to see the retro treats and snacks at Main Street Sweets. This number two pick is definitely deserving of its rank.

As I mentioned earlier, there are also a number of things on the list that are targeted towards a certain group of people: nature lovers. If you’re into hiking, woods, trees and lakes, then I guess Cedar Falls is the right place for you. The top-15 list includes not one, not two, but three different parks and outdoor areas – including taking the number one spot on the list with Big Woods Lake Recreation Area. While this

place is a ton of fun if you do it right, it’s also not the best place to be for a good portion of the year while the lake is frozen and it’s too cold to go kayaking in a swimsuit.

One thing that I definitely want to mention that made both TripAdvisor’s list and mine are the two escape rooms in the area. Clocking in at numbers 12 and 13, Escapology and Escape Cedar Valley will bring you the most exhilarating hour of your life.

If you haven’t ever been to an escape room, the general idea is this: you are given a backstory as to why you ended up in the scene set before you, then you have an hour to solve a series of puzzles to get you out of what is usually a deadly or similar situation.

These rooms are such a great bit of fun for anyone who’s looking for a challenge and I very highly recommend them, whether you’re going out with your friends or trying to come up with something to do when

the family visits.

There are a couple places that didn’t specifically make the TripAdvisor hall of fame that I think deserve an honorable mention. Hurling Hatchets, right off of main street, is a newer stop on the trail but definitely deserves some attention. Scratch Cupcakery is a local favorite with the best frosting and flavors you will ever find. I’m sure even I’ve missed some places in the zip code that are definitely worth a stop during your time in this beautiful city, so also don’t be afraid to explore.

Cedar Falls is a great place to be and a great place to visit.

TripAdvisor didn’t quite hit the bullseye when it comes to experiencing Cedar Falls, but they didn’t get it completely wrong either. No matter what you choose to do while here in 50613, you’ll have a fantastic time.

PAGE 14

SPORTS MARCH 10, 2022 |

WRESTLING

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

COLIN HORNING Sports Editor

VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

Keckeisen wins second Big 12 title, team finishes fifth at Big 12 Championships Eight Panthers will advance to the NCAA Championships in Detroit from March 17-19 HUNTER FRIESEN Sports Writer

After concluding their regular season with a loss to Wisconsin on Feb. 17, the UNI Panthers wrestling team made their way to Tulsa, Okla. for the Big 12 Championship, which took place this past weekend.

Coming into the tournament, the Panthers had several touted wrestlers individually competing in Brody Teske (125 pounds), Austin Yant (165 pounds), Lance Runyon (174 pounds), Parker Keckeisen (184 pounds). Both Keckeisen and Teske were crowned champions last season, and this season they come into the tournament as their weight classes first and third seed, respectively.

The first session turned out to be a productive one for the Panthers, as the team sat in second place behind Oklahoma State and advanced six wrestlers onto the semifinals. Teske was able to get the fall on Iowa State’s Kysen Terukina, which led to him earning the victory on a 6-5 decision. Keckeisen was able to get two major decision wins against opponents from Air Force and North Dakota State, respectively. Redshirt sophomore Colin Realbuto provided the highlight of the day as he completed an upset over his fourth-seeded opponent from Missouri in a 3-1 decision.

Of the six Panther wrestlers who made it into the semifinals, three were able to come away with a spot in the finals.

Teske, Keckeisen, and Kyle Biscoglia all earned their way into the final round with victories in the second session.

Three finalists tie the most UNI has ever had since they joined the Big 12 in 2018.

The three players’ advancement also secured them an automatic spot in the NCAA championships.

As a team, UNI fell to fourth place in the standings, behind Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, and Missouri. Oklahoma State and Missouri each had four individual finalists.

The third and final session before the finals saw two more UNI wrestlers secure their spots in the NCAA Championship. Both Realbuto and Yant were awarded bronze medals in their weight class, with Realbuto doing so by getting revenge against Jarrett Degen of Iowa State.

However, UNI dropped another position in the rankings, as the Cyclones were able to jump up.

On the final day, Keckeisen showed off why he came into the tournament as the top seed. In his championship match against Jeremiah Kent of Missouri, Keckeisen was able to open with a takedown and eventually get a reversal.

He would get a few more takedowns in the later rounds, and a penalty point and riding time gave him the 13-3 major decision. He is now the third Panther to earn two Big 12 wrestling championships.

Teske and Biscoglia were not able to get victories over their final opponents. Four other Panthers were able to get podium spots by the end of the tournament, totaling seven wrestlers earning automatic qualification for the NCAA tournament, the most ever under head coach Doug Schwab. As a team, UNI finished in fifth place, equaling their result last season.

The NCAA Championships will take place March 17-19 in Detroit, Mich. Tyrell Gordon will be joining the other seven wrestlers as an at-large bid.

TONI FORTMANN/Northern Iowan

The UNI wrestling team competed in the Big 12 championships this past Saturday and Sunday. Parker Keckeisen secured his second career Big 12 title over the weekend and several indidvidual Panthers earned at-large bids at the NCAA Championships next week in Detroit, Mich.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Rucker, Bofelli earn all-MVC honors for 2021-22 COLIN HORNING

Sports Editor

Fifth-year senior guard Karli Rucker and second-year freshman Grace Bofelli have both earned all-Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) honors for their play during the 2021-22 season.

Rucker was named to the

conferences’ all-first team for the fourth consecutive year.

She led the Panther women in scoring, assists and three-point percentage over the course of the year and provided valuable veteran leadership to the women’s basketball team. She joined ten other women’s basketball players in the MVC as all-first team performers.

Boffelli was named allMVC honorable mention for this past season. She had a breakout season for the Panthers and earned a spot in the starting lineup around the midway point of the season. As a second-year freshman, Bofelli averaged 8.4 points per game to go along with 8.8 rebounds per game.

Her season high in points came against Illinois State on Feb. 27, where she put up 17 against the Redbirds. She pulled down a season-high 19 rebounds in UNI’s win over Idaho back on Dec. 19 in the Maui Invitaional in Hawai’i.

The UNI women’s basketball team will hit the hardwood again on Friday,

March 11, when they take on Valparaiso in the Missouri Valley Conference tournament “Hoops in the Heartland,” at the Taxslayer Center in Moline, Ill. The Panthers will be the No. 3 overall seed in the conference tournament with an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament on the line for the MVC tournament champion.

PAGE 15

SPORTS

COLIN HORNING Sports Editor

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

MARCH 10, 2022 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 118, ISSUE 41

TONI FORTMANN/Northern Iowan

The UNI women’s basketball team finishsed the 2021-22 season in third place in the MIssouri Valley Conference and will now look ahead to the conference tournament, or “Hoops in the Heartland,” which will take place at the Taxslayer Center in Moline, Ill. The Panthers will play on Friday in the first round against Valparaiso, with tip-off scheduled for 8:30 p.m.

Panthers get set for 2022 Hoops in the Heartland DAVID WARRINGTON

Sports Writer

Another women’s basketball regular season has come and gone, and after finishing the season on a four game winning streak, the UNI Panthers are looking ahead to the 2022 Missouri Valley Conference Women’s Basketball Tournament, otherwise known as “Hoops in the Heartland.” Games will take place at the TaxSlayer Center in Moline, Ill., with the first round taking place on Thursday, and the championship being held on Sunday.

After exiting earlier than anticipated last season, losing to Bradley in the quarterfinals,

the Panthers will look to make a deeper run this season.

The Panthers finished third in the MVC, therefore receiving the three seed in the tournament. This season’s regular season conference race was very close, with the difference between the regular season champions, Southern Illinois, and fourth place Illinois State being only three games. This should make for a very competitive tournament.

“I couldn’t be more excited. You talk about wide open, it’s extremely wide open,” said head coach Tanya Warren. “This league has been very, very good from the start to the finish, and it is wide open. As coaches, and as players, you’re excit-

ed about that.”

Because they are in the top six, UNI has received a first-round bye and will not play until the quarterfinals on Friday. Their opponent will be the Valparaiso Beacons, the six-seed in the tournament, with that game scheduled for an 8:30 p.m. tipoff on ESPN+. The Panthers met the Beacons twice in the regular season, with both games having very different results. Playing on the road in the conference opener, Valparaiso took down UNI, 60-58, but back in the McLeod Center the Panthers ran away with the game, 68-38.

If UNI can get the quarterfinal win, they will, in

all likelihood, have a matchup with the second-seeded Missouri State Lady Bears in the semifinals. This is another team that UNI split with in the regular season, getting a 74-65 victory at home, but losing the road matchup, 66-57. If Missouri State were to be upset before reaching the semifinals, the other potential opponents would be Drake, the seven-seed, or Bradley, the 10-seed. The Panthers were dominant against Bradley this season, winning both meetings by at least 20 points. However, Drake has been something of a thorn in the Panthers’ side, winning both matchups this year despite UNI being the better team on paper.

The top seeds on the other side of the bracket include the one-seed, Southern Illinois, and the four-seed, Illinois State. UNI swept Illinois State in the regular season, while splitting the two matchups with Southern Illinois.

Like most seasons, the path through Hoops in the Heartland will be a difficult one, and whoever comes out victorious on the other side, claiming the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, will certainly have earned it. UNI comes into the tournament as winners of four in a row. If they can make it seven in a row, they will be dancing on the biggest stage NCAA women’s basketball has to offer.

NBA

Opinion: No, the three-pointer isn’t ruining the NBA CADEN SHEA

Sports Writer

On Dec. 14, 2021, a packed Madison Square Garden bore witness to one of the greatest records in basketball history. Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors broke the career record for the most three-pointers in NBA history.

Curry hit his 2,974th career three-pointer to the roar of a raucous Garden crowd. This feat was talked about all over the sports world as many applauded Curry for what he has done for basketball.

However, there were also a lot of people who have been very critical of Curry and his play style, saying that he has ruined the game of basketball with his

shooting ability. They argue that the game is no longer a game of skill and competition between athletes, but a game of three-pointers where the winner of the game will be the team who has better shooters.

With the 75th anniversary of the NBA occurring this year, a very crucial question has to be asked: Over the years, has the evolution of the use of the three-point shot ruined or improved the National Basketball Association?

In 1979, the NBA introduced the three-point line to change the game forever. The line was designed to introduce an increase in shooting range, expanding the range of the court, making the paint underneath the hoop less crowded. The ath-

letes didn’t know how to react to this new rule and the line remained relatively untouched for several years.

Suddenly, teams discovered how much of a difference three-points can make in a game, and started training their players to expand their shooting range and utilize the line more frequently. Players like Larry Bird and Reggie Miller started shooting from farther out, slowly changing the way the game is played.

Miller was one of the first players to make a true difference in the use of threepoint shots. He could change the outcome of a game by making a few three-pointers and put his name on the map due to his excellent shooting abilities. Many others joined

to make their name synonymous with the three-point shot. These names include Ray Allen, Kyle Korver and more. But the one who has become most synonymous over the years thanks to his ability to shoot from any spot, from any range, doing unreal things night after night is Curry. Alongside his teammate, Klay Thompson, the duo became known as the Splash Brothers and changed everything about the game.

They could space the floor and get hot from a distance at any time, making both of them a threat from deep for the entirety of the game.

This style of play led to many other teams and athletes to change their entire game around the three-point

shot. Big man centers can now hit from behind the arc, shooting guards are now nearly impossible to guard and shooting off-the-dribble has become more prevalent than ever before. But I do not feel like this ruins the game, it evolves it. The more that every aspect of the game becomes utilized, the more fun it becomes to watch. Nobody wants to see a player that dominates the game like games of old.

They want to see the utilization of teams and all their different skills that can bring them to victory over their opponents. The threepoint revolution has only just begun, and if you’re not on board, you’re going to be left behind.

PAGE 16

CROSSWORD

Across 1 It precedes Romans 5 Maestro Ozawa 10 __ de somme: beast of burden 14 “__ luck!”

15 ‘50s-’70s senator who wrote “Humor of a Country Lawyer” 16 Shuffle, for one 17 Dishonest memoir, e.g.

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CLASSIFIEDS

KARLA DE BRUIN Managing Editor

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27 Nicholas Gage memoir for common good.

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Puzzle Answers